Johannesburg, Monday, 13 January 2025 – S3 is proud to launch a 10-part captivating cooking series, Lorna’s Pantry, featuring the charismatic and talented Lorna Maseko, celebrated as the International Culinary Princess.
Lorna’s Pantry debuts on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 18:00. In each episode, Lorna will demonstrate the art of turning South African pantry staples into delectable and budget-friendly meals, making her a true kitchen savant, especially in these economically challenging times.
From reimagining traditional South African dishes to infusing global inspirations, Lorna’s inventive recipes and seasoned cooking tips inspire creativity and will empower viewers to navigate the kitchen with savvy resourcefulness. Through her delightful presentations, Lorna not only elevates everyday meals but also guides audiences in creating flavourful masterpieces that do not break the bank yet provide a feeling of total satisfaction that makes you feel like a goddess, both in taste and presentation.
Lorna Maseko says – “I am super excited to executive produce my first production, Lorna’s Pantry. It is very different from anything I have done before, and I could not be more thrilled to share it with you. This show is about the basics, saving money, which I know is important for many of us. We will explore everything from starting your vegetable garden – growing your favourite herbs, veggies, and fruits, which can save a lot of money – to creating amazing dishes from scratch using simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
We all know how financially challenging the start of the year can be, but that does not mean we must compromise on feeding our families delicious, wholesome meals. Lorna’s Pantry is here to inspire and guide you through that journey. I cannot wait to share these recipes and tips with you as we create affordable, comforting food together!”
Some of the episodes that viewers can look forward to are:
Episode 1 – 15 January 2024
(Lorna’s Pantry – Comfort Food Classics)
In the premiere episode of Lorna’s Pantry, Lorna takes the viewers on a journey of transforming humble pantry staples into soul-soothing, heartwarming dishes. She breathes new life into traditional favourites like fermented sorghum and tshotlho, pap and mopane worms, and the iconic bunny chow, adding her signature flair to these timeless comfort foods.
But Lorna’s love for food extends beyond the kitchen. Inspired to live more sustainably, she begins her vegetable garden, starting with essential herbs she frequently uses in her recipes. The local nursery provides expert tips and hacks for first-time gardeners, setting them towards a greener lifestyle. The episode wraps up with Lorna savouring the nostalgic flavours of her reimagined dishes, reminding us of the power of food to comfort, connect, and create lasting memories.
Episode 2 – 22 January 2025
(Lorna’s Pantry – 30-Minute Meals)
In this episode, Lorna dives into the art of quick, delicious, and wholesome 30-minute meals, proving that a busy lifestyle does not have to compromise flavour or nutrition. Embracing sustainable living, she highlights the benefits of bulk buying, ensuring the pantry is stocked with versatile ingredients that make mealtime a breeze.
Her journey begins at one of her favourite spots, the Linden-based Njam Eatery, where she gathers inspiration from their innovative baked goods and hearty recipes. She also meets up with her friend Naledi, a fellow mom, to teach her go-to hacks for whipping up family-friendly meals in 30 minutes.
Throughout the episode, Lorna shares time-saving tips, meal prep hacks, and ideas for making simple, accessible ingredients shine. By the end, viewers are inspired to embrace quick cooking without sacrificing the joy of creating something special for themselves and their loved ones.
Episode 3 – 29 January 2025
(Lorna’s Pantry – Chicken Goes a Long Way)
In this episode, Lorna highlights the versatility of chicken, the world’s most consumed protein, and shows how every part is utilized to create delicious and sustainable dishes. From flavourful mains to nutrient-rich broths, Lorna demonstrates that with a bit of creativity, chicken can go a long way.
The journey begins with a visit to a local chicken farm, where Lorna addresses common myths and misconceptions about chicken and offers insights into how to select quality poultry. Next, she stops by a trusted local butcher, championing the importance of supporting small, community-based businesses.
Meanwhile, Lorna’s vegetable garden is beginning to thrive, bringing her closer to her goal of sustainable living. She incorporates some of her homegrown herbs into her recipes, adding freshness and a personal touch.
As the episode wraps up, Lorna shares her philosophy: “Next time you buy a chicken, get the whole bird and make the most of it—because every part has a purpose.” This is a reminder that with effort, you can enjoy delicious, budget-friendly, and sustainable meals while honouring every ingredient.
Episode 4 – 5 February 2025
(Lorna’s Pantry – From Scratch)
In this episode, Lorna celebrates the beauty of making things from scratch, proving that simple ingredients can transform into extraordinary creations with just a bit of love and effort. She dives into the basics of cooking, baking, and preserving, showing viewers that homemade is more rewarding but also often healthier and more sustainable.
Her journey begins in her kitchen, where she demonstrates how to make fresh pasta from flour and eggs, turning pantry staples into silky sheets of dough that can be shaped into different pasta dishes. From there, Lorna visits a renowned chef who shares the art and science behind crafting the perfect sourdough bread—a process rooted in patience and tradition.
As the episode closes, Lorna reflects: “There is something magical about knowing what goes into your food. Making things from scratch is not just about cooking—creating, experimenting, and savouring the journey.”
Episode 5 – 12 February 2025
(Lorna’s Pantry – Meal Prep Made Easy)
In this episode, Lorna explores the world of meal prep, showing how a little planning can go a long way in maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. To kick things off, she teams up with her trainer, Siya, who shares insights on how meal prep can support fitness and overall well-being. While new to meal prepping herself, Lorna is determined to make it work, discovering that with the right recipes, it can be both practical and enjoyable.
Throughout the episode, Lorna shares practical tips, like how to store meals to maintain freshness and mix ingredients to avoid boredom. She emphasizes the importance of making meal prep enjoyable, ensuring that the dishes are nutritious and packed with flavour.
As the episode concludes, Lorna reflects on her journey: “Meal prep does not have to be boring or overwhelming. It is about finding what works for you and turning it into a habit that fuels your goals. With a little creativity and planning, you can set yourself up for success—and delicious meals—every day.”
Do the most and tune into Lorna’s Pantry every Wednesday at 18:00, only on S3.
For media enquiries and interview opportunities contact:
Caroline Phalakatshela
Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment
072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za