Waterblommetjie Festival in Paarl
It is harvest time at the Oudepont farm. From left: Samanta September, Santre Davids, and Francis Wougen brave the mist to pick this local delicacy that is only available late August and September.
Image: Supplied
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival will take place on Saturday, September 6, with four wine farms outside Paarl hosting a day of family-friendly festivities from 8 am. Entry is free.
The waterblommetjie – also known as Cape Pondweed, Water Hawthorn, Vleikos, or by its scientific name Aponogeton distachyos – is an indigenous delicacy found only in the Boland area of the Western Cape. It is harvested for a limited time each year, making it highly sought after.
Traditionally prepared in dishes such as waterblommetjiebredie, the plant is also known to have been used by the KhoiKhoi for medicinal purposes. It is rich in vitamins and remains a vital part of the local food heritage.
For updates, follow @Waterblommetjiefees on social media or visit their website. Enquiries can be directed to Ronelda at ronelda@peridot.co.za or Christel at christel@bottelaryconservancy.co.za
Windmeul Kelder was the founder of the festival in 2009 and the potjiekos competition. Festival goers can taste a portion of last year's winning waterblommetjiepotjie.
Image: Supplied