Chef of the Month - Shane Johnson of Leopard Hill Lodge

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This month we interviewed Head Chef Shane Johnson for Leopard Hill`s Lodge in the Sabi Game Reserve http://www.leopardhills.com



Hospitality Jobs:  What kind of food do you serve at the lodge?

We serve Pan African Cuisine.

Hospitality Jobs:  Do you have any signature dishes?  If so, what are they?

 My signature dishes are Tamarind Braised Springbok served with Lentil & Basmati Rice

OR

Chermoula Rubbed Kabeljou Fillets served on a bed of Savoury Cous Cous and a Tomato Beurre Blanc

See Shaun`s Recipe for Chermoula Rubbed Kabeljou Served on a Bed of Savoury Cous Cous

Hospitality Jobs:- What inspires your cooking style?

 I am inspired by the beautiful surroundings of the Tranquil Bush , my family and friends and the great chefs I have worked for

Hospitality Jobs: - What type of dishes are your international guests interested in trying?

 They love our tasty game meats and our Fresh Produce, they are even keen on our “Pap” and Chaka Laka

 Hospitality Jobs- What is your definition of great customer satisfaction?

 To see the smile on guests faces after we have fed their souls.

Hospitality Jobs - What inspires you in your job as head chef?

 The great team that I work with at Leopard Hills and the lush surroundings



 Hospitality Jobs - What challenges do you face in your job as head chef of a lodge?

 Challenges are the ever present Baboons and Hyena that are always keen to try their luck and break in. Other than that , if deliveries will be on time, but if we are short anything another lodge kitchen is always a phone call away.

The heat is also extreme , so I am very careful with my food preparation

Hospitality Jobs- How do you inspire and motivate your team?

 As a person of Faith, the power of prayer, always encouraging my staff. I enjoy laughter in the kitchen, it must be a happy place. So there is always rooms for a few jokes and laughs, this vibe really motivates staff to work.

 Hospitality Jobs- When you get a night off, what are your favourite places to dine out?

 In the bush it’s difficult to dine out, but on a night off there is nothing better than a braai with the staff.

When I am in the city I prefer the Butcher Shop and Grill for their great meats and seafood. Moyo does a great twist on African meals too, the vibe is incredible.

Hospitality Jobs - Who are your food heroes?

My previous head chefs especially Chef Annette Grecchi Gray . She is amazing. Her love and Passion for the Food Industry has inspired be to achieve a lot more in the Hospitality Industry.

Hospitality Jobs- If you weren`t a chef, what do you think you would be?

 I would love to have been a journalist or a teacher, this is a calling just like cookery and being a chef.

Hospitality Jobs- What do you eat at home?

 When I am resting at home with my family we enjoy curries, fried fish, grilled steaks, fresh vegetables, soup and homemade baked bread.