“With spring around the corner, the weather is sure to get warmer and what better way to embrace this than by having a good old braai, ” says Granny Mouse Country House & Spa Executive Chef Shaun Dampies.

For him, a fish braai always goes down well with many guests and is a twist on the standard braaivleis.

Here are his tips for creating the perfect fish braai:

Firstly, the fish must be fresh, firm and scaled and should be washed after scaling to ensure all scales are removed.

Secondly, dry the fish with a paper towel or a clean hand towel and then season the fish on the meat side with only dry ingredients.

Thirdly, make sure the fire or coals are nice and hot, evenly spread out and that your grill is clean.

Next, salt the fish with a generous amount of salt (coarse salt is best ) on the skin of the fish, as this will ensure the fish does not stick to the grill and will also season the fish. It will also draw out the remaining moisture from the skin.

Place the fish on the grill, skin side down to crisp up

The, once you see the flesh side of the fish start to cook on the sides, turn the fish over and open the grill slowly. Using a basting brush, push on the skin to release the parts of the skin that might stick

Once the grill is open, baste the skin of fish, with a basting of your choice, and close the grill

Remember to always check that your heat is not to hot but also not to cold – too hot will dry out the fish!

Once the fish is basted on the skin side, turn the fish around and baste the fish on the flesh side and make sure it’s cooked all the way through.

If you love using lemon, squeeze some lemon on after the fish is cooked and served with garlic bread and side salad.

These quick cooking tips are sure to have your guests coming back for more. For more fun recipe’s and tips contact Chef Shaun Dampies on 033 234 4071.

Spring has sprung, and what better time to explore the Natal Midlands then when the landscape undergoes the transformation from the browns and ocres of winter, to the bright and lush greens of spring.

Escape from the chill of winter and rejuvenate your soul at Granny Mouse by enjoying the lush surroundings coupled with the first signs of summer.

From 1 September  to  15 December, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is offering guests an unforgettable two night stay for two, including a ladies pedicure and foot massage, a gents head and foot massage, champagne sundowners on the pool deck for one evening of your choice, a gourmet picnic to enjoy at Granny Mouse, or a day trip to explore the area as well as R800.00 dinner vouchers to enjoy during your stay, for only R1 363 per person per night sharing in one of their magnificent Garden Rooms.

For those able to sneak in a third night, Granny Mouse will throw in a Karkloof Canopy tour for two, which will see you zip lining through the splendor that is the Karkloof forest, whilst feeling on top of the world! It’s hard to believe that all this is only R1 380 per person per night sharing in a Garden Room.

Booking either of these packages is essential, and is subject to availability, so don’t miss out this Spring! Contact Granny Mouse today on 033 234 4071 or email reservations@grannymouse.co.za

Spring and Summer Special 2014