Nutty Banana Bread with Kiara Axelson
“Today, I am introducing to you dynamite in a small package. Kiara Axelson is passionate, determined and extremely hard working - all the traits required for the making of a great chef. And don’t try to push her around… ”
A sponsorship from her grandfather meant Kiara could enrol at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine. “After matriculating at Girls’ High School in Pietermaritzburg, I applied for a loan,” she explains, adding that when her application was declined, she had visions of having to change her career plan. “Fortunately, it didn’t get to that because I saw myself as nothing else but a student at this school.”
“We are well into the first half of the course and, despite the busy days and demanding workload, I am thoroughly enjoying being here. I’m very happy with my career choice and wouldn't have it any other way. I believe I'm getting the best culinary experience from one of the top chefs in South Africa. For anyone interested in the culinary arts, I highly recommend Chef Jackie’s school because what you get out of the course is on another level.”
Kind words from Kiara, who speaks her mind - and never holds back. It’s a treat having her on our course. We are delighted that her grandfather made this contribution to Kiara - and to all those she will touch as she pursues her dream of becoming a top chef.
As a tribute to her grandfather, Kiara chose to share her banana bread recipe with you.
“My culinary journey began with my grandfather,” she says.
“From Grade 1, I would go to his home every day after school, and at the end of my Grade 9 year I moved into his home. He was very active at making banana bread and, from an early age, he gave me small tasks, such as putting in a few ingredients. Before I knew it, I was doing everything on my own - except mashing the bananas. That was always his task! Over the years, it became our ‘thing’ to bake together. My grandfather is the person who got me into the kitchen, and I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for him. I’m sure The Witness readers will enjoy the sentiment that goes with the same banana-bread recipe he and I have used for a decade. It’s what brought my grandfather and I together and I hope it will do the same for you – and the special people in your life.”
This recipe is a keeper. Please send us any comments that spring to mind – and happy baking.
Explore www.jackiecameron.co.za to find out more about my Women’s and Men’s Chef Clothing Range. Remember Jackie Cameron Cooks at Home and Baking with Jackie Cameron – the books highlight all my foodie adventures. I always look forward to hearing from you so please communicate via email: jackie@jackiecameron.co.za.
Jackie Cameron - owner of Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine in Hilton, KZN - for enquires email admin@jackiecameron.co.za.
Find me on Facebook – Jackie Cameron Cooks at Home, Twitter - @jackie_cameron and Instagram: @jackiecameronincolour
Food assistant and recipe developer: Kiara Axelson
All photos by Kathy Pitout Photography