If you live in Western Cape and have only 50 litres a day to use because of Day Zero, you might have to compromise on water-based meals.
But you need not fret.
Our resident chef and foodie, Duenna Mambana, has these quick waterless food wins – from breakfast to dessert – to keep you going; hopefully until the rains come.
"Even when you have to be water conscious, you can still enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. There are meals you can make that require little to no water," she says.
Here are her top choices for this week – everything from breakfast to dessert.
1. Scrambled eggs and mushrooms on health bread
"This is a great and filling breakfast option. Scrambled eggs and sautéed mushrooms need no water, just olive oil and some seasoning," she says.
2. Tinned chickpeas in vegetarian feast
"This is a win for my vegetarian friends. To cut out the water needed for this dish, you can buy canned chickpeas. Even when you're going for a mixed-bean dish, canned also works. The garlic bread was store bought."
3. Sticky wings
"These wings were marinated in Coke, olive oil, salt and pepper, and then cooked in the oven. They are a fave at my house and never fail."
4. Baked hake topped with tomato-and-chive relish
"Over 90 percent of a tomato' weight is water, so you're covered. You can cook tomatoes however you like. Bake your hake in the oven, and then rub with Himalayan salt for added flavour. You can also add lemons for more flavour."
5. Chicken fillets with kale
"Buy washed kale from a trusted shop and sauté in olive oil instead of steaming it. You can spice your chicken fillets and grill them in the oven."
6. Trio of desserts - lemon cupcakes, red velvet "slices" and Nutella pancakes with blueberries
"This may be the perfect time to try cake premixes – that's what I used for these yum desserts. I also opted for milk-based ones, not water-based ones."