Durban - Siba’s Table was the first television show by a non-American presenter to reach 60 million homes in the US. Take that, Trevor Noah! Eugene Yiga spoke to Siba Mtongana.
What was it like the first time you were on camera?
While I was still a food editor at Drum Magazine, I had a show on Mzanzi Magic called Cooking with Siba. We used to cook with local celebrities. The first time I had to speak on camera, I asked the producer to get everyone out of the room because they were making me nervous.
How did this compare to your experience when you started Siba’s Table?
When I first started, they told me that I just had to be natural and be myself. But how could I be natural with 30 people looking at me? I think it comes with a bit of experience. You have to bond with the crew, especially the cameraman, who is literally in your face the whole time.
How have things changed over the years?
It’s been a long journey since then. I’m no longer intimidated.
How do you keep it “natural”?
The show is unscripted in order for me to feel natural. We tried it scripted and it didn’t work. They will guide me where we have to do certain lines for the introduction but everything else is just me sharing with people.
Why do you think the show has been such a sensation?
People feel that what they see on TV is who I am in real life. The production is amazing. We work hard on putting it together.
What can we expect from the second season of Siba’s Table?
I wanted to make what our grandparents used to make but give it a light, modern twist.
How do you hope to change perceptions about South Africa?
For an international audience, I want them to know what we eat.
How is your life right now?
I believe that God has opened an opportunity for me and for that I say thank you. Being a celebrity is a privilege because you get to decide what you’re going to influence people with.
Will your husband feature?
He’s such a support. There are times when I just feel like I can’t do it and Brian is the one who says that I should see what he sees in me. We are one.
What do you love most about being in the kitchen?
It’s like when people sing and they get in the zone. When I’m cooking, it’s my thing.
What’s your favourite dish?
I don’t have one. I experiment.
l The second season of Siba’s Table Fast Feasts is on Food Network (DSTV Channel 175) every Friday at 8pm. She is also self-publishing her cookbook, My Table, later this year.
Sunday Tribune