#classic south african recipes

[thetockablog]

Spiced Milk Tart

Spiced Milk Tart Ingredients Base:200g Tennis biscuits1 tsp Osmans Taj Mahal cinnamon powder150 g butter, melted  Filling:1 litre full cream milk3 large eggs, at room temperature1 cup granulated sugar1/2 tsp Osmans Taj Mahal ginger powder1 tsp Osmans Taj Mahal cinnamon powder2 Osmans Taj Mahal cloves, ground2 ½ tbsp flour2 ½ tbsp cornflourPinch of salt1 tbsp butter1 tsp vanilla extractOsmans…

[hannieehaee]

Svt & learning to cook food from s/o’s homecountry (aka not korean food). A different culture & food for each member would rlly cool

making you a meal from your country

content: established relationship, fluff, foreign reader (non-korean), etc.

wc: 872

a/n: this was such a cute concept omg!! i picked the food items and the home countries at random btw sorry if i got some dishes wrong pls lmk if there's any corrections i should make 😭

masterlist

seungcheol -

he wouldn't be able to stand your homesickness for even one second, feeling too sad at your sadness and deciding to do everything in his power to make you feel better. he'd ask around for traditional south african dishes leading him to make you some chakalaka while you were at work. the hours of trial and error wouldve been worth it the moment he saw the happiness in your eyes at his efforts.

jeonghan -

being quite used to simply ordering takeout whenever he so pleased, jeonghan was not used to cooking at home too often. however, if his sweet s/o wanted some homemade tom yum soup, then he'd deliver! after a quick call to mingyu (and an hour or two of messing around in the kitchen), he'd be ready with your food. he loves thai food, so this would be a win-win situation for him.

joshua -

he knew you sometimes missed australia and were unable to go back and forth as you pleased, so josh would occasionally indulge you in making meat pie for you, following a recipe you'd once made for him early in your relationship.

jun -

he'd had indian food before and loved it, so it did not take any convincing for him to decide to make you some indian street food. he'd do it out of his own volition pretty often, actually. by now, he had mastered the art of various dishes, specially panipuri, which he would frequently make for you, and sometimes he'd even share some with his members.

soonyoung -

if he sensed you growing homesick and missing your usual chinese cuisine, he'd go out of his way to seek out jun or minghao to ask what food may make you feel a bit better. he'd then take on the task of making you the most delicious street breakfast, jianbing, knowing it wasnt too difficult a task for him and that it was a meal you'd often have in your youth.

wonwoo -

wonwoo was quite known for his lack of ability in the kitchen, but that would not stop him from making you some laksa whenever you were feeling particularly homesick. despite not knowing how to make any other singaporean dishes, he'd have specifically mastered at least one in order to take care of you in such a domestic way whenever the opportunity arose.

jihoon -

never having been one to cook much (he'd much rather stick to washing dishes), he'd struggle a lot through making you some pastéis de nata for your anniversary, deciding to make a korean-portuguese fusion of meals to celebrate your relationship. ok, maybe he called mingyu over to help, but the joy in your eyes as you shared the meal with him had made it worth all of mingyu's nagging as he followed his instructions to the letter.

seokmin -

he's never been to spain, but he's had a few spanish meals throughout his life, so he'd quickly understand why you'd often complain about the lack of authentic spanish food near your shared apartment. would take it upon himself to learn how to make paella in the most perfect manner imaginable just to see a smile on your face.

mingyu -

making a pizza from scratch was easier said than done, but mingyu had taken on the task the moment you let him know of the fomo you felt at seeing him and his best friends explore your country of origin, italy. you'd watched nana tour happily, but still felt a bit off at knowing you couldn't be there with your boyfriend. but fear not! mingyu was about to bring the authentic italian experience to your door!

minghao -

he's been to the united states so many times by now that he just knows american food by heart. wouldnt even need a recipe to know how to make you some classic barbecue on a sunny afternoon. would even make an entire day out of it, grilling under the sun while you sunbathed next to him.

seungkwan -

seungkwan has always thought himself to be quite a good cook. or at least he was quite good at making korean food. japanese food was another story. he knew how badly you missed homemade sushi, never enjoying any from your nearby restaurants. he'd have to ask for your help at some point, but the end result would be the two of you sharing a nice moment making a meal together, so it all went according to plan.

vernon -

he doesnt know how to cook neither korean nor american food, but you best bet he'll try his hardest to make you traditional vietnamese food in the form of bun cha and bánh xèo. it looked easy and like it tasted good, how hard could it be? would try his bestest but eventually need to ask you for help completing the task. a+ for effort, though.

chan -

he already loves mexican food, so making it for you wouldnt even be something you'd have to request from him – he'd just do it on his own! he'd already mastered all types of street food, eventually opting to make you menudo, knowing how much you enjoyed that meal as a child.

[fatehbaz]

Christmas pudding [...] [is] a boiled mass of suet - a raw, hard animal fat [...] often replaced with a vegetarian alternative - as well as flour and dried fruits that is often soaked in alcohol and set alight. [...] [I]t is a legacy of the British Empire with ingredients from around the globe it once dominated [...].

Christmas pudding is a relatively recent concoction of two older, at least medieval, dishes. [...] “Figgy pudding,” immortalized in the “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” carol, appeared in the written record by the 14th century. [...] During the 18th century, the two ["plum pottage" and "figgy pudding"] crossed to become the more familiar plum pudding – a steamed pudding packed with the ingredients of the rapidly growing British Empire of rule and trade. The key was less a new form of cookery than the availability of once-luxury ingredients, including French brandy, raisins from the Mediterranean, and citrus from the Caribbean.

Few things had become more affordable than cane sugar which, owing to the labors of millions of enslaved Africans, could be found in the poorest and remotest of British households by mid-century. Cheap sugar, combined with wider availability of other sweet ingredients like citrus and dried fruits, made plum pudding an iconically British celebratory treat, albeit not yet exclusively associated with Christmas.

Such was its popularity that English satirist James Gillray made it the centerpiece of one of his famous cartoons, depicting Napoleon Bonaparte and the British prime minister carving the world in pudding form.

In line with other modern Christmas celebrations, the Victorians took the plum pudding and redefined it [...], making it the “Christmas pudding.” In his 1843 internationally celebrated “A Christmas Carol,” Charles Dickens venerated the dish as the idealized center of any family’s Christmas feast [...].

Three years later, Queen Victoria’s chef published her favored recipe, making Christmas pudding, like the Christmas tree, the aspiration of families across Britain.

Christmas pudding owed much of its lasting appeal to its socioeconomic accessibility. Victoria’s recipe, which became a classic, included candied citrus peel, nutmeg, cinnamon, lemons, cloves, brandy and a small mountain of raisins and currants – all affordable treats for the middle class. Those with less means could either opt for lesser amounts or substitutions [...]. Eliza Acton, a leading cookbook author of the day who helped to rebrand plum pudding as Christmas pudding, offered a particularly frugal recipe that relied on potatoes and carrots. [...] The high alcohol content gave the puddings a shelf life of a year or more, allowing them to be sent even to the empire’s frontiers during Victoria’s reign [...].

---

In the 1920s, the British Women’s Patriotic League heavily promoted it – calling it “Empire Pudding” in a global marketing campaign. They praised it as emblem of the empire that should be made from the ingredients of Britain’s colonies and possessions: dried fruits from Australia and South Africa, cinnamon from Ceylon, spices from India and Jamaican rum in place of French brandy.

Press coverage of London’s 1926 Empire Day celebrations featured the empire’s representatives pouring the ingredients into a ceremonial mixing bowl and collectively stirring it.

The following year, the Empire Marketing Board received King George V’s permission to promote the royal recipe, which had all the appropriate empire-sourced ingredients. Such promotional recipes and the mass production of puddings from iconic grocery stores like [Sains-bury's] in the 1920s combined to place Christmas puddings on the tables [...].

---

All text above by: Troy Bickham. "How the Christmas pudding, with ingredients taken from the colonies, became an iconic British food." The Conversation. 8 December 2023. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Image and caption shown unaltered as they appear published by Bickham along with the article's text.]

[sso-montana]

Whats Montana’s favorite food? And does she have like a comfort food that she eats when shes sad?

Also what’s her favorite horse breed?

HELLO HELLO HI :D

Her favorite food are sosaties with rice! Sosaties are South African beef skewers and her adoptive mom always made them for her and the rice... she just really likes rice lmao (her grandma actually got the recipe when Montana was a kid and maybe she cried a little after realizing it wasn't lost)

When she's sad she either forgets to eat entirely or she craves cookies. And it hast to be those classic cookies with chocolate chips and they can't be too crumbly. And hot chocolate is always good. Hot chocolate is nice and warm and cozy and when made from leftover Christmas chocolate with marshmallows even better

Her favorite horse breed are shires! She's biased tho because of Onyx and if we take him out of the equation it's the Clydesdale, they're big and floofy but not so tall that she has trouble getting up there herself

[mariacallous]

A fond memory of my childhood is the New York-style egg creams my dad would whip up for me on Sundays during lunch. Sundays were the most relaxed day of the week in our home, and I suppose a homemade egg cream was a sign we could all enjoy ourselves just a tad a more.

Egg creams are light, refreshing but still somehow a little rich. Chocolatey. Sweet. And, according to my dad (and many other egg cream aficionados), must be made with Fox’s U-Bet chocolate syrup. My dad also taught me that the ratio of milk to chocolate syrup is very important for a good egg cream.

I had been thinking recently that adding a scoop of ice cream to an egg cream would be a great way to really take it to the next level. But why stop with ice cream? You could also add a shot of Baileys (which, did you know, was invented by a South African Jew?!) or Kahlua to make a more “adult” version.

My favorite touch to this updated egg cream is the colorful sprinkles. An extra touch of whimsy had me traveling back to the Sunday lunches of my childhood.

Want to make it non-dairy? Use vanilla almond milk, or leave out the milk all together and add a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream.

Read more about the Jewish history of egg creams here, and check out other ways people are playing with the classic recipe here.

[piece-of-the-pie-if]

Besides pie what other desserts do the ROs enjoy?

ooo cute question! I decided to be generous and add c too!

Dylan──peanut butter brownies, hands down. Their dad's father makes the best brownies they've ever tasted! If Dylan were a better cook they'd ask for the recipe, but they can burn water so that's not a good idea.

Shay──his favourite desert is a classic red velvet cake! he's not the biggest fan of chocolate and plain victoria cakes are kind of boring. a very close second would be a custard tart!

Kinsley──she might be a stickler for ice-cream but she love frozen yogurt or gelato! her go to is mango gelato or bubblegum fro-yo!

J──their favourite desert stems from their early childhood days when they visited their great-grandparents in Italy! J loves homemade cannolis with pistachios or orange peels as toppings. It's one of the only things they can make and they like making them with Arabella!

Theo──beignets!! They had them during atrip down to New Orleans a few years ago and fell in love.

C──C loves a dessert called plaited koeksisters! They're a Afrikaans desert they found out about accidentally during middle school in which a South African girl brought them to celebrate her birthday! It's not something easily found so when they do it's a momentous occasion!

[starteatingwithpurpose]

Creole Seasoning Blend: The Spice Mix That Transforms Dishes

If you're a fan of adding a burst of flavour to your dishes, you've probably come across the term "Creole seasoning blend" at some point. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Creole seasoning, exploring its origins, ingredients, and how you can use it to elevate your culinary creations.

What is Creole Seasoning Blend?

Creole seasoning is a zesty and aromatic spice mix used in Southern cuisine, particularly in Creole and Cajun dishes. It's renowned for its ability to infuse dishes with a bold and tantalising flavour profile. This seasoning blend can be the secret weapon in your kitchen, adding depth and complexity to a wide range of recipes.

A Brief History of Creole Cuisine

To truly understand Creole seasoning, it's essential to grasp the rich history of Creole cuisine. Creole cooking is deeply rooted in the multicultural influences of Louisiana, particularly New Orleans. It's a fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Native American culinary traditions.

The word "Creole" itself refers to the descendants of European settlers in the region, but over time, Creole cuisine evolved to include a diverse array of ingredients and cooking techniques. Creole seasoning emerged as a cornerstone of this cuisine, contributing its unique blend of flavours to countless iconic dishes.

The Ingredients in Creole Seasoning Blend

Creole seasoning typically contains a medley of spices and herbs. While the exact ingredients may vary from one blend to another, common components include paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and salt. These ingredients work in harmony to deliver a spicy, savoury, and slightly smoky flavour that's unmistakably Creole.

How to Use Creole Seasoning in Your Cooking?

One of the beauties of Creole seasoning is its versatility. You can use it to add depth to meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp, or sprinkle it onto vegetables and potatoes before roasting. It's also a key player in classic dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans and rice. Just a pinch or two can transform an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece.

Where to Buy or Make Your Own Creole Seasoning 

When it comes to Creole seasoning, you have two main options: buying it pre-made or making your own at home. Many grocery stores carry commercially prepared Creole seasoning, often in convenient shaker bottles. These are a great choice if you're looking for convenience and consistency.

If you prefer to craft your own seasoning blend, it's easy to do so with readily available spices. By adjusting the proportions of ingredients to your taste, you can create a customised blend that suits your palate perfectly. A homemade Creole seasoning can be a source of pride in your kitchen.

Final Thoughts 

Creole seasoning spice blend is a culinary treasure with roots in the vibrant and diverse Creole cuisine of Louisiana. Its combination of spices and herbs adds depth and character to a wide range of dishes, from seafood to meats and vegetables. Whether you choose to buy it pre-made or make your own, this seasoning blend is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, the next time you're looking to spice up your meals, don't forget to reach for that trusty Creole seasoning. Its unique flavours will transport your taste buds to the heart of the South, creating a dining experience that's nothing short of magical.

[biltongmakers]

Authentic Boerewors Spices for Perfect Sausage Flavor

When it comes to crafting authentic South African boerewors, the secret lies in the spices. The perfect blend of seasonings transforms ordinary sausage into the mouthwatering delicacy that has been loved for generations. At Biltongmakers.Com, we specialize in providing premium Boerewors Spices that capture the essence of traditional recipes while offering modern convenience.

Why Choose Biltongmakers.Com for Boerewors Spices?

Creating boerewors is more than just cooking; it’s an art and a tradition. Our spice blends are crafted to preserve the heritage of this iconic dish while enhancing its rich, savory flavor. Here’s why our customers trust us for their boerewors seasoning needs:

Authenticity: We use traditional recipes to ensure you get the genuine taste of South African boerewors.

Quality Ingredients: Only the finest spices and herbs make it into our blends, ensuring robust flavor in every bite.

Wide Range: Whether you’re a fan of mild flavors or enjoy a spicy kick, our variety of blends caters to all tastes.

Convenience: Available online, our spices are just a click away, delivered straight to your door.

What Are Boerewors Spices?

Boerewors spices are a unique combination of seasonings designed specifically for making the traditional South African sausage, boerewors. These spices often include a mix of:

Coriander

Clove

Nutmeg

Black Pepper

Salt

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the signature aroma and taste of boerewors. Our expertly crafted blends balance these flavors perfectly, ensuring your sausage stands out every time.

How to Use Boerewors Spices

Using our boerewors spices is simple and straightforward, even for beginners. Here’s a quick guide:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start with high-quality beef, pork, or a mix of both. Ensure the meat is fresh for the best results.

Mix the Spices: Follow the recommended measurements on the packaging to achieve the ideal flavor balance.

Stuff the Sausage: Use a sausage stuffer to fill the casing with your spiced meat mixture.

Cook or Grill: Boerewors can be grilled, fried, or baked to perfection. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Popular Boerewors Spice Blends at Biltongmakers.Com

At Biltongmakers.Com, we offer a selection of spice blends to suit various preferences:

Classic Boerewors Blend: Perfect for traditionalists who love the authentic, rich flavors.

Spicy Boerewors Mix: Adds a fiery kick for those who enjoy bold tastes.

Herbed Boerewors Seasoning: Infused with aromatic herbs for a more refined flavor profile.

Each blend is carefully curated to ensure consistency and satisfaction with every use.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Boerewors

Using our boerewors spices allows you to take control of your culinary creations. Here’s why making boerewors at home is a rewarding experience:

Customization: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Freshness: Enjoy sausage free from preservatives or artificial additives.

Family Tradition: Making boerewors can be a fun activity for family gatherings or special occasions.

Cost-Effective: Home-made boerewors often costs less than store-bought alternatives.

Tips for Perfect Boerewors

Choose Fresh Meat: The quality of your meat directly affects the final product.

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the sausage too dense.

Store Properly: If you’re not cooking immediately, store your boerewors in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.

Why South Africans Love Boerewors

Boerewors is more than just food; it’s a cultural symbol that brings people together. From backyard barbecues to festive celebrations, this sausage is a staple in South African cuisine. By using our Boerewors Spices, you’re not just making food—you’re embracing a tradition that has stood the test of time.

Shop Boerewors Spices Online Today

Ready to elevate your cooking with authentic boerewors spices? Visit Biltongmakers.Com and explore our wide range of premium spice blends. With our easy online ordering and fast delivery, creating the perfect boerewors has never been easier.

At Biltongmakers.Com, we’re passionate about helping you create unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook trying boerewors for the first time, our spices are the perfect companion for your kitchen. Order now and taste the difference.

[dnahealthsa]

Top 5 Vegan Desserts For The Whole Family This Christmas

Over the festive season, it's hard to find dessert recipes that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary requirements or allergies. We, at DNA Health, have picked out our top 5 vegan dessert recipes for the holidays. From Apple Crumb Pie, Malva Pudding, Black Forest Trifle, Buttercrunch Toffee and Gingerbread Cookies!

Vegan Apple Crumb Pie

Apple Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavours of apple pie with a crumbly, buttery topping. Vegan and Gluten-free Apple Crumb Pie is easy to make and the quantity of ingredients can suit your preferences. It’s often served warm, sometimes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients:

Prepared Pie Crust (made from almond flour, a bit of tapioca starch, coconut oil and pure maple syrup) | Vegan Butter and/or Coconut Oil | Your choice of Apples | Pure Maple Syrup | Coconut Sugar / Brown Sugar | Vanilla Extract | Ground Cinnamon and Ginger | Cornstarch | A Small Amount of Lemon Juice | Rolled Oats / an extra 1/2 cup oat flour (if you prefer a crunchy texture) | Gluten-Free Oat Flour | Ground Pecans / walnuts / almonds (based on preference).

Instructions:

Bake the crust - for about 10 minutes, until light golden brown.

Prepare the filling - in a pot or pan add sliced apples and vegan butter and stir. Then add maple syrup, coconut sugar, cinnamon and ginger to the mix. After a few stirs add your cornstarch mix (with water) and stir until a thickened consistency. Add vanilla and lemon juice to the mix last.

Prepare the topping - in the DNA Super Blender add your oats, oat flour, salt and your choice of nuts. Add the coconut oil and pure maple syrup then blend until it forms a dough-like texture.

Assemble the pie - by adding your filling into the crust and layering your topping over it. Bake covered for 30 minutes and then uncovered for another 15 minutes on the baking preset in the DNA Airfryer Oven, then enjoy!

Vegan Malva Pudding

Malva pudding is a traditional South African dessert known for its rich, sweet, and spongy texture. It’s made with apricot jam, which gives it a distinctive flavour, and it’s typically served warm with a generous pouring of creamy sauce. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat, perfect for any occasion and preparing a Vegan Malva Pudding alternative will have your guests jumping for joy.

Ingredients:

Gluten-Free Flour | Baking Powder | Baking Soda | Salt | White Vinegar | Soy Milk | Applesauce | Apricot Jam | Vegan Butter | Sugar | Coconut Cream | Coconut Oil | Vanilla Extract.

Instructions:

Mix dry ingredients together - gluten-free flour into a mixing bowl and add sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Mix wet ingredients together - applesauce, apricot jam and coconut oil and mix into a batter. Add white vinegar to some soy milk and let it curdle.

Prepare the sauce - melt vegan butter and add sugar and coconut cream then stir until a uniform consistency. Add vanilla extract to the mix last.

Baking - mix your wet and dry ingredients together in a baking pan. Bake for 35 minutes at 176°C on the baking preset on the DNA Airfryer Oven.

Adding the sauce - poke holes evenly in the pudding and pour over the sauce. Leave it to set and then enjoy!

Vegan Black Forest Trifle

A Black Forest trifle is a delightful dessert that combines layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy chocolate pudding, sweet cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream. It’s inspired by the classic German Black Forest cake, known for its combination of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. And the Vegan Black Forest Trifle alternative over Christmas will be a sure favourite.

Ingredients:

Granulated / Brown Sugar | Dairy-free Milk | Fresh / Canned / Jarred / Frozen Cherries | Dairy-free Whipping Cream | Cocoa Powder | Instant Coffee Granules (optional) | Baking Soda | Salt | Neutral Flavoured Oil | Vegan Chocolate | Vanilla Extract | Corn Starch.

Instructions:

Mix dry ingredients together - granulated / brown sugar, cocoa powder, instant coffee granules (optional), baking soda, salt and vegan chocolates.

Mix wet ingredients together - dairy-free milk, fresh / canned / jarred / frozen cherries, neutral flavoured oil and vanilla extract.

Prepare the Cake - mix your wet and dry ingredients together in a baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes at 160°C on the baking preset on the DNA Airfryer Oven.

Chocolate Custard - add the dairy-free milk, cornstarch, vegan chocolate and granulated/brown / coconut sugar to a large saucepan on high heat and whisk until a thickened consistency.

Cherry Compote - using 3 cups of cherry juice add corn starch, sweetener and lemon juice (optional). Mix in a pot on medium heat and stir until a thickened consistency.

Assembly (a few hours or a day before serving) - place half the cake (cut into small squares) pieces into the bottom of an 8-inch (20 cm) trifle dish. Layer with half of the cherry compote, half of the chocolate custard and half of the whipped cream. Repeat all the layers. Top it off with fresh cherries.

Vegan and Nut-Free Buttercrunch Toffee

Buttercrunch toffee is a tasty confection made from a mixture of butter, sugar, and often almonds. It’s known for its rich, buttery flavour and satisfying crunch. Now there is a vegan and nut-free option that everyone can enjoy! This vegan and nut-free buttercrunch toffee is perfect for eating and gifting. You’ll be surprised at how easy this is to make.

Ingredients:

Vegan Butter | Sugar | Corn Syrup | Salt | Vegan Chocolate Chips | Candy Thermometer

Instructions:

Toffee - add vegan buttery spread, sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt in a pot and cook on medium to high heat until the mixture reaches 143°C, stir frequently. Then carefully pour the mixture onto a cookie sheet that has been lined with foil.

Chocolate layer - let the toffee sit for two minutes then sprinkle over the chocolate chips. As it melts spread it across the toffee.

Smash it - place the batch in the fridge for a few hours then by any means break it into smaller pieces to enjoy.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a traditional holiday treat known for their warm, spicy flavour and festive shapes. Now with a vegan alternative, these Vegan and Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies are going to be a hit with the kids.

Ingredients:

pitted dates | almond meal / nut free Alternative | Buckwheat Groats | Gluten-Free Rolled Oats | Cinnamon | Ginger | Nutmeg | Vanilla | Cloves | Coconut Sugar (optional)

Instructions:

Dry Ingredients - Blend all ingredients (except for dates) in the DNA Super Blender until you get a fine consistency like flour.

Wet Ingredients – mix in the dates with the dry ingredients until you get a dough-like texture.

Shape it - the dough into shapes before baking. Bake on the cookie preset on the DNA Airfryer Oven.  

Last Instruction

We hope we inspired you this Christmas to try out these delicious and party-friendly recipes that anybody can enjoy over the holidays. Check out our range of health appliances to really spruce up your kitchen. From the powerful DNA Super Blender to the versatile DNA Airfryer Oven and so much more in between.

Happy Holidays!

[candy-floss-crazy]

Doughnuts, or donuts as some would insist upon. The classic sugar covered doughy goodness beloved by all. Well, some people don't like them, but they are usually recaptured pretty quickly. Anyway, we all know what they are, but do the rest of the world share the same tastes. We look at some of the wonderful and weird examples available around the globe. Bomboloni A traditional Italian recipe, the Bomboloni is made from a type of pastry called bomba (bomb). It could be due to the resemblance to an old fashioned bomb, or possibly a reference to the high calorie density i.e. a calorie bomb. They are a filled doughnut with chocolate, custard and jam amongst others. Berliner A Berliner Pfannkuchen is a traditional German pastry similar to a doughnut made from sweet yeast dough made with eggs, milk and butter then fried in fat or oil with a marmalade or jam filling and icing or powdered sugar topping. Sometimes they are made with champagne, mocha, advocaat or chocolate. They are traditionally a new years eve treat though they can be purchased throughout the year. A common practical joke is to fill them with mustard and serve them together with regular Berliners. Jelebi A Middle Eastern/Indian/North African snack made from deep fried maida flour then soaked in sugar syrup. They are somewhat chewy with a crystallised sugar coating. Traditionally served with curd or rabri. They were traditionally given to the poor during Ramadan and there are cookbooks dating back to the 10th century with recipes for them. Also eaten in the Indian subcontinent were they are served with condensed milk or vegetable curry. Churros A traditional snack in Spain and Portugal. They are served with hot chocolate, and can be plain or filled with chocolate, jam, custard etc. Their origins are unclear, with one theory being they were brought from China by Portuguese explorers. Another being they were invented by Spanish shepherds being easy to fry over open fires in the mountains. Sufganiyot An Israeli treat, nowadays very similar to the Berliner, though cooked in schmaltz due to kashrut laws. Traditionally they were made from two rings of dough surrounding a jelly filling then fried in one piece. Although this method is still used, they are more often made like the Berliner, a ball of dough with the filling injected. They can also be stuffed with chocolate, truffle, dulce de leche and topped with a variety from coconut shavings to liquors and fruit pastes. Youtiao Doughnuts Looking more like Churros than traditional doughnuts, the Chinese Youtiao is a golden brown, deep fried strip of dough. Common in China and other South East Asian cuisines. Traditionally lightly salted and made to be torn in two, they are a breakfast treat, and accompany rice congee, soy milk or milk blended with sugar. Legend has it that they are a protest against the Song Dynasty official Qin Hui who allegedly plotted to frame the general Yue Fei, an iconic patriot in China. The treat represents Qin Hui and his wife collaborating to bring about the generals downfall. They were supposedly first made in the shape of two humans before evolving into their current form. Beignets  Common in France, and French influenced areas such as New Orleans they date back to the time of Ancient Rome. Though the practice of deep frying dough goes back to at least the 5th Century BC. They can be made with choux pastry or yeast pastry, and are commonly served at breakfast with powdered sugar and served hot and fresh. An Doughnut A Japanese doughnut, made from deep fried dough filled with red bean paste. This dates from around 1983 so is a relative baby in the doughnut world. Oliebol One of our favourite doughnuts hailing from that super laid back super friendly country of Holland. They are like a dumpling, made with an ice cream scoop of dough, dropped into a deep fryer with hot oil. This provides a spherical shaped doughnut popular at funfairs and traditionally eaten on New Years Eve. They can be injected with a variety of jams, custard chocolate etc, and are usually topped with sugar. Sel Roti Doughnuts Hailing from the mountain kingdom of Nepal. The sel roti is a traditional home made ring shaped treat made from rice flour. Unique to Nepal, they are made mainly for the Nepali celebrations of the Tihar and Dashain festivals.  Balushahi Made from a mix of flour, ghee and baking soda, these are fried in ghee or oil then dunked in a thick sugar syrup. Sweet but flaky they are a staple in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala and Kamataka. Koeksister Doughnuts A traditional Afrikaner fried dough infused with honey or syrup. Made from plated dough strips that are deep fried in oil then submerged into ice cold sugar syrup. They have a liquid syrup centre and a golden crunchy crust. Very sticky and sweet. They were traditionally baked to raise funds for the building of schools and churches. There are literally dozens of variations of doughnuts around the world, all delicious. Read the full article

[thetockablog]

Carrot Cake Loaves

Carrot Cake Loaves Recipe Ingredients250g vegetable oil390g granulated sugar1 tsp table salt4 large eggs, at room temperature1 tbsp cinnamon powder1/2 tsp ginger powder1/4 tsp ground cloves240g cake flour1 1/2 tsp baking powder1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda330g carrots, finely grated120g pecans, chopped, plus extra to decorate Cream cheese icing113g unsalted butter, at room temperature230g cream…

[dailyrisecoffee]

Cold Brew Beans Old-Fashioned Recipe

Whether your predilection for an Old Fashioned leans towards bacon-wrapped figs or spiced pecans, the consensus at Home Grounds is unwavering: the inclusion of coffee is paramount. The sweet, velvety, almost syrup-like essence of cold brew coffee serves as a harmonious adjunct to the Old Fashioned cocktail.

Curious about concocting an exemplary one? Continue perusing for an assortment of insights on crafting the ultimate cold brew Old Fashioned.

Prime Coffee Beans for This Libation

Traditionally, cold brew coffees favor dark to medium roast beans due to their robust profiles. Cold brew Beans made with coarsely ground coffee benefits immensely from the complex flavors developed in the later stages of roasting via the Maillard reaction. This transformation is what endows it with its sought-after low acidity and inherent sweetness.

Furthermore, the selection of single-origin beans or well-crafted blends should synergize with the accompanying ingredients. While a bright, floral African coffee might excel in a cinnamon orange iced coffee crush — where the predominant flavors are citrus and spice — it might not be as suitable for an Old Fashioned, where the flavors are more subtle and nuanced. Thus, a general rule is to opt for single-origin beans or blends from Central and South America.

Crafting a Cold Brew Old Fashioned

Though this beverage might elude many local bars, this cold brew variant offers a sophisticated twist on the classic pre-dinner coffee cocktail.

Using room-temperature water accelerates the extraction process and ensures the nuanced tasting notes of the coffee beans are fully captured. Combine the grounds with water and leave it to steep on your countertop for 16 hours.

Once your cold brew concentrate is prepared, press the plunger and decant the brew into a glass pitcher. Your concentrate is now ready to be used in various cold brew concoctions.

Now, with all your ingredients assembled, let’s craft this cold brew cocktail.

1. Brew Your Cold Brew

Measure one cup of coarse coffee grounds into a 50-ounce French press and add five cups of room-temperature water. Stir gently to blend.

With the plunger fully retracted, place the lid on the French press and let it sit on the countertop for 16 hours. Once ready, plunge and decant into a large, 50-ounce pitcher.

2. Create Your Simple Syrup

A few minutes before serving your Old Fashioned, combine one cup of brown sugar and one cup of water in a saucepan.

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, remove from heat and allow the simple syrup to cool to room temperature.

3. Assemble the Cocktail

In the bottom of an eight-ounce rocks glass, use a muddler or bar spoon to muddle a dash of Angostura bitters with two teaspoons of simple syrup.

Add equal parts rye whiskey or bourbon and cold brew concentrate. For a single serving, use two ounces of each. Stir gently to blend.

Add one large cold brew ice cube, or a few smaller ones, and garnish the Old Fashioned with an orange peel and a Maraschino cherry.

[capellilavita-blog]

FAIRVIEW EXCELS AT THE 2004 SA DAIRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

With Eleven SA Champions and Six Qualité Awards #NewsFlash

Fairview Cheese, one of the most recognisable dairy brands in South Africa and currently the largest producer of specialty cheeses in the country, proudly took the stage at the 2024 SA Dairy Championships to receive a total of 11 SA Champion titles for category winners and six prestigious Qualité Awards — the competition’s exclusive mark of excellence.

This year’s event marked the 191st edition of the SA Dairy Championships, the largest and oldest dairy competition in Africa, which celebrates the excellence, diversity and economic significance of South Africa's dairy sector. With over 1 000 dairy products from 78 producers, the event showcased the finest in dairy craftsmanship. Fairview took top honours with the highest number of Qualité Awards, the esteemed emblem of distinction.

These six Fairview cheeses will soon be proudly sporting the much-desired Qualité black and gold badge of honour:

• Woolworths Cambozola (A high fat semi-soft white mould cheese with blue veins adding a subtle pungent, classic flavour — made from Jersey cow milk)

• Woolworths Medium Fat Cream Cheese (A plain medium fat cream cheese — delicious as a spread or dip or use it for baking — made with Jersey cow milk)

• Woolworths Raspberry Roulade with Pink Peppercorns (A medium fat raspberry cream cheese roulade dusted with pink peppercorns — made with Jersey cow milk)

• Woolworths Cream Cheese Tomato & Herb (A medium fat tomato and herb cream cheese made from Jersey cow milk)

• Woolworths Brie de Roche (A creamy rustic flavoured Brie made with a blend of Jersey cow and goat’s milk — ripened for a minimum of five weeks)

• Woolworths Roydon (A creamy rustic flavoured Camembert made with a blend of Jersey cow and goat’s milk)

Charles Back, third-generation owner of Fairview, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, “Congratulations for continuing to the do the Fairview name proud! While our journey began way back with my humble attempts to produce goat’s cheese, our commitment to quality and our unique philosophy have remained unwavering. We combine traditional European recipes with a distinct South African flair, using only the finest sustainably sourced ingredients. This meticulous approach ensures that our products consistently meet a very high standard. As evidence of this, we are proud to be the leading supplier of Woolworths's specialty cheeses, six of which clinched us top Qualité Award honours at the 2024 SA Dairy Championships.”  

@Posy Hazell @Fairview Wine & Cheese

[chsthrive]

Eating Your Way Through Charleston: A Food Lover's Guide Shop Local Charleston, SC Businesses [ad_1] When it comes to Southern cuisine, Charleston, South Carolina is a food lover's paradise. From traditional Lowcountry dishes to modern interpretations of classic recipes, Charleston offers a variety of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. With an abundance of fresh seafood, locally-sourced produce, and a rich culinary history, Charleston is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates good food. The History of Lowcountry Cuisine Charleston is known for its unique blend of African, European, and Native American culinary traditions, which come together to create what is now known as Lowcountry cuisine. Influenced by the region's history of slavery and plantation agriculture, Lowcountry cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh seasonal ingredients, seafood, and rice. One of the most iconic dishes in Lowcountry cuisine is shrimp and grits, a dish that originated in the coastal regions of South Carolina. Made with fresh shrimp, stone-ground grits, and a rich gravy made from pan drippings, shrimp and grits is a staple on Charleston menus and is a must-try for any visitor to the city. Where to Eat in Charleston Charleston is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a casual seafood shack or a fine dining experience, Charleston has something for everyone. Seafood Shacks For a taste of Charleston's fresh seafood, head to one of the city's many seafood shacks. Places like The Wreck of Richard & Charlene and Hyman's Seafood offer classic Lowcountry dishes like fried shrimp, oysters, and crab cakes, all served with a side of Southern hospitality. Fine Dining If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, Charleston has plenty of options to choose from. Restaurants like Husk, FIG, and McCrady's offer contemporary interpretations of classic Southern dishes, using locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Food Markets For a taste of Charleston's local flavors, be sure to visit the Charleston City Market and the Charleston Farmers Market. Here you'll find an array of locally-produced goods, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. Don't miss the chance to sample some traditional Charleston treats like benne wafers, pralines, and she-crab soup. Exploring the Cuisine of Charleston One of the best ways to experience the cuisine of Charleston is by taking a food tour of the city. Companies like Charleston Culinary Tours and Bulldog Tours offer guided tours that take you to some of the city's best restaurants, markets, and historical sites, giving you a taste of Charleston's culinary heritage. Another great way to explore the cuisine of Charleston is by attending one of the city's many food festivals and events. From the Charleston Wine + Food Festival to the Lowcountry Oyster Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the city's best dishes and mingle with fellow food lovers. Conclusion Charleston is a food lover's paradise, with a rich culinary history and a vibrant dining scene that offers something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for classic Lowcountry dishes or innovative interpretations of Southern cuisine, Charleston has it all. So come hungry, and get ready to eat your way through this charming Southern city. [ad_2] EXPLORE MORE: Places to eat in Charleston SC FIND: Things to do in Charleston SC CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here #PLACES_TO_EAT

[charlestonbusinessdirectory]

Eating Your Way Through Charleston: A Food Lover's Guide Shop Local Charleston, SC Businesses [ad_1] When it comes to Southern cuisine, Charleston, South Carolina is a food lover's paradise. From traditional Lowcountry dishes to modern interpretations of classic recipes, Charleston offers a variety of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. With an abundance of fresh seafood, locally-sourced produce, and a rich culinary history, Charleston is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates good food. The History of Lowcountry Cuisine Charleston is known for its unique blend of African, European, and Native American culinary traditions, which come together to create what is now known as Lowcountry cuisine. Influenced by the region's history of slavery and plantation agriculture, Lowcountry cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh seasonal ingredients, seafood, and rice. One of the most iconic dishes in Lowcountry cuisine is shrimp and grits, a dish that originated in the coastal regions of South Carolina. Made with fresh shrimp, stone-ground grits, and a rich gravy made from pan drippings, shrimp and grits is a staple on Charleston menus and is a must-try for any visitor to the city. Where to Eat in Charleston Charleston is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a casual seafood shack or a fine dining experience, Charleston has something for everyone. Seafood Shacks For a taste of Charleston's fresh seafood, head to one of the city's many seafood shacks. Places like The Wreck of Richard & Charlene and Hyman's Seafood offer classic Lowcountry dishes like fried shrimp, oysters, and crab cakes, all served with a side of Southern hospitality. Fine Dining If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, Charleston has plenty of options to choose from. Restaurants like Husk, FIG, and McCrady's offer contemporary interpretations of classic Southern dishes, using locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Food Markets For a taste of Charleston's local flavors, be sure to visit the Charleston City Market and the Charleston Farmers Market. Here you'll find an array of locally-produced goods, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. Don't miss the chance to sample some traditional Charleston treats like benne wafers, pralines, and she-crab soup. Exploring the Cuisine of Charleston One of the best ways to experience the cuisine of Charleston is by taking a food tour of the city. Companies like Charleston Culinary Tours and Bulldog Tours offer guided tours that take you to some of the city's best restaurants, markets, and historical sites, giving you a taste of Charleston's culinary heritage. Another great way to explore the cuisine of Charleston is by attending one of the city's many food festivals and events. From the Charleston Wine + Food Festival to the Lowcountry Oyster Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the city's best dishes and mingle with fellow food lovers. Conclusion Charleston is a food lover's paradise, with a rich culinary history and a vibrant dining scene that offers something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for classic Lowcountry dishes or innovative interpretations of Southern cuisine, Charleston has it all. So come hungry, and get ready to eat your way through this charming Southern city. [ad_2] EXPLORE MORE: Places to eat in Charleston SC FIND: Things to do in Charleston SC CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here #PLACES_TO_EAT