Now is a good time to start reflecting on what the family will be feasting on during the many celebrations. This time reminds me of family, especially my favourite aunt - when all the women gather to prepare food for the occasion, usually to make the umqombothi and peel and chop the vegetables.
My favourite aunt would have same carrot in hand for at least three hours, animatedly sharing the latest (and heavily embellished) story of her exciting life, with us hanging on her every word. Between her and the scones and gemmer, we couldn't be more entertained.
In a pot dissolve the sugar with 2 cups of the water. Simmer the ginger, raisins, cream of tartar, pineapple skin and the rest of the water. Allow the pot to cool for an hour and add the yeast. Leave to stand overnight. Strain into a bottle and chill before serving.
Preheat oven to 180ºC and grease an oven tray. In a large bowl, sift flour, salt and baking powder. Using your hands, rub in the butter in the flour and add sugar. Beat the egg and cream together and make a well in the centre to add the cream mixture. Mix well with a knife, careful not to over mix. Pat out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of 2cm and use a cookie cutter to cut into rounds. Place on the greased baking tray and bake for 10-12 minutes.