From the verandah to the world: SA vegan cookbook heads to Riyadh

We’re thrilled to announce that There’s a Vegan on My Verandah has been selected to represent South Africa at the 30th Gourmand World Cookbook Summit in Riyadh this November. This prestigious event will feature some of the most valued cookbooks published globally over the past 30 years — and we’re honoured that this special South African title will be among them.

Written by Louis Jansen van Vuuren and Isabella Niehaus, There’s a Vegan on My Verandah (also printed in Afrikaans as Daar’s ’n Vegan op my Verandah) is a heartfelt, flavour-filled celebration of vegan food, hospitality and life. The book was first published in 2022 and went on to win Best Vegan Cookbook in the World at the 2023 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in Umeå, Sweden.

Now, it’s taking another step into the global spotlight.

Co-published by CN&CO Publishing and Festive France’s Hardy Olivier, the book invites readers into the homes and hearts of its authors. It’s a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing beautiful meals, and a love letter to community, creativity and conscious eating.

We’re particularly touched by the words of Edouard Cointreau, founder and chairman of the Gourmand Awards committee, who wrote: “This book is pure harmony, yet universal. It succeeds in making the reader feel like a guest in the universe and at the table of Bella and Louis. The most original of all vegan books. Thank you!”

Representing South Africa alongside a remarkable line-up of fellow local authors is an immense honour — and one we share with everyone who has supported this project from the beginning.

Whether you’ve cooked from it, gifted it or simply admired its pages, thank you for joining us on the verandah. Here’s to more food, more stories, and more magic.

There’s a Vegan on My Verandah is available for R450 excluding VAT and delivery. It’s a beautiful piece of work and makes a great gift. Contact penny@cnandco.com to order your copy.