Traditional versus modern Koeksisters — which wins?

I've now had Koeksisters prepared traditionally and in a modern interpretation. Both are interesting. The traditional version emphasises braai wood and coals in the way Cape Malay cuisine reflects the heritage of enslaved people brought from Southeast Asia. The robust and satisfying character is more pronounced and direct.

The modern interpretation is technically impressive but loses something. The a weekend braai context for the traditional version adds meaning that plating alone can't provide. Pinotage wine with the traditional version made more sense than with the modern. Traditional wins, but the modern is worth trying once.