Sweet side of life: Matheka’s Yumborghini - condiments made with real fruit

My name is Wendy Matheka. I studied Psychology at USIU-Africa and I am more inclined to psychological research than counselling and therapy.

I like to think that I am creative. I am good at crocheting, drawing, embroidery, food photography and would definitely want to try pottery when I have the chance.

My passion for good food started when I was quite young. I started selling food in USIU in 2019 and my condiments were always sold out.

Since then, I have been dreaming of Yumborghini and now my dream has finally come true and I am so happy that I get to share this dream with the world!

What are the top two ingredients in your pantry that you cannot live without?

The first is definitely chickpeas because they are so versatile. You can make hummus, curries, falafel, roasted chickpeas and even grind it to make chickpea flour.

The second is obviously garlic because you can never go wrong with garlic in savoury dishes.

That one kitchen gadget you cannot live without?

An oven! I love roasting and grilling veggies and really enjoy baking cakes for my dad.

One kitchen gadget you are dreaming of having in your kitchen right now?

Definitely an air fryer. That is the level of adulting I aspire to reach.

What is the most liked marmalade from your collection?

So far people love the Raspberry Coconut Jam so much! The Strawberry Vanilla Jam is also a hit with children. It tastes like candy.

A most challenging but satisfying dish that you are a pro at?

A lentil crunch wrap! So flavourful! The time it takes is worth it.

Are you a sweet tooth or a savoury person and how has this affected how you make your jams?

I think I am a bit of both, I love savoury dishes but I also really enjoy sweet treats. This has affected the recipe development of the jam.

I enjoy experimenting with flavours and will definitely venture into savoury jams and condiments when the time is right.

Your top two favourite ingredients and why you love them?

1.Marmalade Sour Recipe

One Serving

1 heaped tsp of Yumborghini Whiskey Sour Marmalade Juice of one orange Juice of half lemon 1 shot whiskey, brandy, gin, rum or vodka A handful of ice cubes Orange peel strip or zest

Mix all ingredients but the ice & orange strip/zest in a shaker or glass and shake or mix with a spoon. Add the ice into the shaker and shake until your hands get cold OR add ice to glass with the cocktail. Serve in a glass and garnish.

2.Thumbprint Jam Cookies

40 cookies

Two cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup softened margarine Two tablespoons of soy milk or other plant milk (you can use cow milk if you are not vegan) 1 tsp vanilla essence 1/3 cup of any Yumborghini jam or marmalade

Preheat oven to 180C and line the baking sheet (or 2 medium) with baking paper and set aside.

In a bowl, mix together the flour and salt until well combined.

Add the softened margarine to a bowl and hand whisk (or use an electric mixer) until creamy. Add the sugar and beat on medium until incorporated, then add the vanilla essence and mix some more.

Gradually add the flour and salt mix until a dough starts to form followed by the milk. At this point, you can use your hands to knead the dough.

Shape the dough into small smooth balls and place on a baking sheet about 1.5 inches apart.

Make the indentations with the back of a quarter tsp or your thumb by pressing down gently about half way in.

Use a small spoon to fill each cookie with your Yumborghini jam of choice and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the baking sheet and let cool for about 10 minutes.