Sushi meets South African tradition in a fun and innovative twist as Dumisani Lukhozi, sushi master at John Dory’s, recently guided Miss Soweto Top 20 finalists through a unique sushi-making experience using White Star pap instead of the traditional rice. The masterclass, a first-of-its-kind, highlighted the versatility of pap while celebrating local culinary heritage, blending familiar South African flavours with contemporary gastronomy.

One of the highlights from the session was a California roll made with pap. The roll included juicy steak strips and a flavourful chakalaka mix, rolled together and topped with a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Once shaped, it was sliced into four pieces and served upside down on a sushi plate, accompanied by fresh ginger and wasabi.

Another innovative creation was the Bean Curd sushi, where bean curd pockets were filled with pap and topped with a mix of coleslaw and chopped fried chicken strips. This dish offered a delightful combination of textures and flavours, and was served on a sushi plate alongside ginger and wasabi, presenting a playful twist on traditional sushi.

The masterclass also showcased a Mini Poke Bowl designed around fried pap balls. The pap balls were first dusted in tempura flour, coated in batter and crumbs, and fried until golden brown. These formed the base of the bowl, which was layered with tender boerewors cubes, chakalaka, avocado, and a sprinkling of sesame seeds. The result was a visually appealing and flavour-packed dish that fused South African ingredients with the sushi experience.

The Sushi Masterclasses hosted by John Dory’s are available nationwide and are designed for everyone, from casual diners to culinary enthusiasts. Occasionally, private group sessions are offered for corporate events or special occasions, and advanced booking is recommended as spots often fill quickly.

This initiative, led by Spur Corporation, not only demonstrates the adaptability of pap in modern cuisine but also encourages South Africans to explore fusion dishes at home. By integrating traditional ingredients into globally inspired recipes, the masterclasses create an enjoyable and educational culinary experience for participants.

About Spur Corporation:
Spur Corporation is a leading casual dining group with over 738 outlets across South Africa, Africa, India, and Mauritius, operating well-known brands including John Dory’s, RocoMamas, Spur Steak Ranches, Panarotti’s, The Hussar Grill, Doppio Zero, Casa Bella, Pizza e Vino, Nikos, and Modern Tailors.

Recipe contribution: John Dory’s sushi master Dumisani Lukhozi
Photo Credit: Thabo Nyembe for OnPoint PR

Udaipur Marriott Hotel has unveiled Ayana, its newest rooftop dining destination, offering guests a transcendent culinary journey set against the shimmering lakes and Aravalli Hills. True to its name, which means “the path,” Ayana guides diners through an immersive experience that begins with its serene poolside ambiance and culminates with indulgent desserts.

The restaurant’s design harmoniously blends contemporary Indian aesthetics with natural materials, oversized cushions, glowing lanterns, and curated world music, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and serene. The panoramic rooftop views add a magical dimension to every visit.

Ayana’s menu celebrates India’s royal culinary legacy, drawing inspiration from the Northwest Frontier and the regal kitchens of Rajasthan. Each dish is crafted with precision, honouring its origins while presenting a modern twist. The bar complements the menu with artisanal cocktails infused with Indian botanicals, spices, and local flavours, alongside a curated selection of fine wines and craft beers.

Designed for intimate dinners, celebratory gatherings, and exclusive events, Ayana offers a mix of communal seating, semi-private corners, and open decks. The restaurant is also deeply committed to sustainability, prioritizing locally sourced seasonal produce, plant-forward innovations, minimal food waste, energy-efficient kitchens, and elimination of single-use plastics.

Executive Chef Mohit Mishra commented on the launch:

“We are thrilled to officially welcome guests to Ayana. Our vision was to create more than just a restaurant, we wanted to craft a journey where each dish tells a story, each flavour evokes tradition, and every detail reflects India’s rich culinary heritage.”

Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager, added:

“Ayana is designed to be an immersive experience, not just a dining venue. From the sweeping rooftop views to the thoughtfully curated menu and serene yet vibrant ambiance, every element has been meticulously crafted to create lasting memories for both travellers and locals seeking a refined night out.”

Ayana promises to be a destination for culinary discovery, offering diners a seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and unforgettable experiences atop one of Udaipur’s most scenic rooftops.

1.5 Degree, India’s leading plant-based dairy alternative brand, has unveiled an exciting new range of signature beverages, frozen sundaes, traditional kulfis, and refreshing popsicles this festive season. The announcement comes on the heels of the company securing seed funding from BITS Pilani and being recognised among its top emerging startups.

The new collection reflects 1.5 Degree’s philosophy of combining indulgence with responsibility. Designed for the conscious consumer, the range features sugar-free café-style beverages like Kesar Badam, Salted Pistachio, Hazelnut Coffee, and Cold Vegan Tea, crafted for refreshing, guilt-free sips.

The Frozen Sundaes promise rich, layered indulgence in flavours like Salted Peanut Butter and Nutty Choco Fudge, while the Kulfi Collection, also sugar-free, reimagines the classic Indian favourite with plant-based innovation. The Popsicle lineup includes fruity and tangy favourites such as Chilly Guava, Jamun, and Shikanji, complemented by rotating seasonal sorbets for an extra-refreshing twist.

“At 1.5 Degree, we believe in indulgence without compromise,” said Vedansh Goyal, Founder of 1.5Degree.co. “With the overwhelming response to our gelatos, this new range brings familiar Indian favourites like kulfi and shikanji into the plant-based space, while also offering global café-style beverages, now with sugar-free options that keep taste front and centre.”

All products are 100% plant-based, dairy-free, lactose-free, and cholesterol-free, made using natural ingredients without artificial additives or preservatives. Ethically sourced and responsibly produced, the brand reinforces its mission to support a cooler planet while offering full-flavoured experiences.

1.5 Degree’s new offerings are available across Delhi NCR and Mumbai through select retail outlets, quick-commerce platforms, kiosks, and cloud kitchens. Orders can also be placed online via Swiggy, Zomato, or directly at 1.5degree.co.

Founded with a vision to make plant-based indulgence mainstream, 1.5 Degree continues to expand its product line with an aim to merge taste, sustainability, and innovation, one scoop and sip at a time.