Vetkoeks, also known as mangwinya or fried buns, are one of South Africa's favourite comfort foods. They are filling, crispy on the outside, yet very soft and fluffy on the inside. They are a proudly South African treat.
One woman's vetkoeks are igniting the community spirit in Midrand.
Agnes Nethengwe (64) has been warming the hearts of locals in Johannesburg with her delicious vetkoeks since 2018. However, she started her business in 1979 in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, where she used to sell to scholars in her local district. Agnes, like millions of South Africans, left her village to seek greener pastures in Gauteng, the city where dreams are made.
She currently runs her business from a mobile kitchen next to Vodaworld in Midrand.
What makes Agnes' vetkoeks a hit is that she serves them straight out of the pot, so her customers get them fresh and hot. She says the secret to her delicious vetkoeks is that they are made with love and passion.
Agnes, who is a self-taught cook, has been serving hundreds of customers on a weekly basis. Her customers often have to stand in a long queue to get her amazing vetkoeks.
Agnes, who stays with her family in Rabie Ridge, has to come in the early morning hours to ensure her customers can kickstart their mornings with her delicious treat. She sells one vetkoek for R1.50 and they are often sold out before 8am.
"This business has helped me support my family and take my kids to school," says the proud mom who has also been raising her relatives' children.
"What I love about Johannesburg is the vibe and that people love my food," she says.
Agnes says having a heart and a passion for people is the key to the success of her business.
"I don't even get bored. Feeding my customers and creating strong relationships with them energises me," says Agnes.
She says her business is what has been keeping her young and healthy.
If you find yourself in the neighbourhood, visit gogo Agnes's mobile kitchen.
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