Darling Debbie Cooks

30/03/2026

Be prepared to be inspired by Autumn themed food and flowers.

20/03/2026

Trying out Foolproof Foccaccia - it’s very easy even for someone who doesn’t bake bread regularly!

25/02/2026

I absolutely loved being part of my uber talented sister’s team . Last week’s wedding was off the charts! your photographs are beautiful and your flowers were stunning. Well done to all who contributed in making it an event to remember ! Can’t wait for the next one !!

24/01/2026

I had to try out the latest Biscoff 2 ingredient cheesecake. It’s certainly quick and easy but i still prefer my decadent white chocolate cheesecake using Lancewood’s smooth cream cheese!

12/11/2025

Debbie Mclaughlin has been for the past 23 years chef owner at Hilda’s Kitchen at Groote Post. She has now joined forces with her sister, Sandy Wood, the owner and creative drive behind Sandys, one of South Africa’s most successful bespoke events and catering companies and will assist in developing the Western Cape arm of the business. They will be available to quote on your special function from January 2026.

13/09/2025

Table set and ready for today’s dem. This time we’re doing tempura prawns, Thai fish cakes and Honey ginger chicken with roasted red peppers and sweet potatoes. For more information contact Shaun on 083 325 4148

30/07/2025

Cooking classes in wildflower heaven….Spring in Darling, when the local flower reserves come into full bloom and magic abounds. The perfect time to enjoy spring related dishes and to learn how to prepare them with all recipes provided. For further information contact Shaun on 083 325 4148 or [email protected]

16/06/2025

Learn how to make a wonderful lemon curd tart with meringue frosting at darling debbie cooks in Darling. Contact Shaun on 083 325 4148 or [email protected]

10/06/2025

Lamb paprikash - The perfect dish for a cold evening paired with a full bodied shiraz.

26/05/2025

26/05/2025

Darling Debbie cooks…….She may have hung up her apron, but she’s really enjoying giving cooking classes from her own home in Darling. Learn how to prepare some of the dishes she made so well known at Groote Post over the years. For more information call Shaun on 083 325 4148 or email [email protected]

12/04/2025

Hilda’s Kitchen will be open over the Easter weekend including Good Friday. Please call Shaun on 083 325 4148 or [email protected]

24/02/2025

It is with more than a twinge of sadness that Shaun and Debbie announce their departure from Hilda’s Kitchen at Groote Post at the end of April 2025. After 23 years of (mostly) success, it’s time for a change of guard at the farm and a new set of challenges for us. We are both extremely proud of our ability in maintaining the high standard that we set for ourselves all those years ago. We’re also proud of the longevity of the tenure and the strong relationships and friendships we have forged over the years.
But now we seek new opportunities and new adventures that await. To that end, we are hoping to be able to do some of the catering events that we weren’t able to do in the past. We would also hope to host a few of the food and wine pairings that were so popular at Trinity Lodge. Please do get in touch with us to discuss further.
Thanks to Nick and his Dad for their support and encouragement over the years. Thanks too to Lukas, Jannie, Wilna and Biesie. You guys (and girl) are rock stars.
We look forward to setting a new pace and the time to explore this wonderful country of ours, all the while enjoying the fine wines of the Western Cape.
Thank you too to all our loyal customers over the last 23 years. We appreciate your support and sincerely hope to see you at Hilda’s Kitchen before the end of April to say our farewells in person.
Shaun and Debbie Mc Laughlin
[email protected]
Shaun – 083 325 4148
Debbie – 084 298 0218