Tana Malinga

In a bold fusion of cultures, John Dory’s sushi master Dumisani Lukhozi recently guided the Miss Soweto Top 20 finalists through an inventive sushi-making class that replaced traditional rice with White Star pap.

This first-of-its-kind session celebrated South Africa’s rich food heritage, proving that pap can be as versatile as it is comforting. By blending local flavours with Japanese precision, Chef Lukhozi transformed a familiar staple into a creative culinary experience that delighted everyone in attendance.

John Dory’s Sushi Masterclasses are held nationwide and open to all who wish to explore the art of sushi-making, whether you’re a first-timer or a devoted foodie. Private group bookings are also available for team-building sessions or special events, though early reservations are advised due to limited space.

For those who’d like to bring the experience home, Chef Lukhozi shared his signature Pap Sushi Recipe, a simple yet flavourful way to enjoy this proudly South African twist.

Pap Sushi Recipe by Chef Dumisani Lukhozi

California Roll 4pc

Ingredients:

Steak strips 20g

Chakalaka 10g

Pap 60g

Method:

Make a California roll with chakalaka and steak strips inside.

Springle some sesame seeds on top, shape and cut into 4 pieces.

Serve on sushi plate upside down with ginger and wasabi on the side.

Bean Curd 2pc

Ingredients:

Bean curd pockets x 2

Pap 40g

Coleslaw 10g

Fried chicken strips 20g

Method:

Make bean curd with pap inside.

Topped with a mix of coleslaw and chopped chicken strips

Server on a sushi plate with ginger and wasabi on the side

Mini Poke Bowl

Ingredients:

Pap balls fried x3

Chakalaka mix 10g

Avo10g

Boerewors cubes 20g

Sesame seeds mix 2g

Tempura flour 10g

Tempura batter 60ml

Tempura crumbs 5g

Oil 5m

Method:

Make pap into balls

Dust in tempura flour, batter, crumbs and fried at 160 degrees until golden brown

Place fried balls at the bottom of the bowl

Add boerewors cubes on top of the pap

Add chakalaka on top of the boerewors

And finished with avo cubes and sesame seeds.

PHOTOS BY THABO NYEMBE