The recipe for the cactus pear syrup comes courtesy of Graham Isaacson of Blue Water Café in Cape Town. You could buy ready-made syrup at delis and farm stalls but it usually contains a fair amount of colouring. Here, you still get that rosy hue, but with all the goodness.
With the festive season practically knocking at the door, there’s no doubt that you and your loved ones are gearing up to cook and bake festive feasts to outshine last year’s. And as with many festive recipes, a splash of brandy or full-bodied red wine is at the top of the list. However, for whatever reason, you might not want to add a splash of vodka or vermouth this year, and are looking for suitable alternatives (or if any). That’s where we come in. Cue alternatives and practical tips that help you enjoy traditional festive flavours without the alcohol. Do…
Instead of limiting the cherry moment to the fruit bowl, Cherry Time™ explored ways to weave the harvest into meaningful touchpoints: the gift you choose, the dessert you bring, the jewellery you wear, the candle you light at home, or the ice cream you share on a warm afternoon. Each collaboration was designed to extend the season’s sense of joy, craft, and abundance into small moments that feel intimate and memorable, all rooted in the brand’s Take a Moment philosophy. This year’s partners included Nina Skep, Me & B, Ta Daa Ice Cream, Sweet Lionheart, Jack Rabbit Chocolates, Meraki Jewellery,…
Today, South Africa stands still for a National Shut Down against Gender-Based Violence – and at Food&Home, we stand in solidarity. In support of the movement, we’ve rounded up a selection of simple, comforting purple-inspired desserts and drinks you can make with what you already have at home. Whether it’s a touch of blueberries, a swirl of blackberry syrup, or a full-on violet-hued treat, these recipes bring a moment of sweetness to a day centred on awareness, resistance, and unity. Enjoy them with your loved ones, share them with neighbours, or even donate a batch to a women’s safety shelter…
Everyone’s heard of salty and sweet combinations, so what’s the big deal with it now? It’s one of the O.G. flavour combos that’s been around longer than pineapple has been on pizza, but this flavour fusion has been quietly making its comeback, popping up everywhere from ice cream stands to the snack aisle. So what’s behind this newfound summer trend, how can you incorporate it into your everyday meals, and will it last through the season? We dive into everything you need to know about salty + sweet flavour combos. What is ‘Swalty’? Sweet is divine. Salty is satisfying. Combine…
Sourdough has firmly cemented its presence since it was all the rage back in 2020. And it’s popular for good reason: it has myriad health benefits, a delicious and satisfying crunch, and a distinctive, tangy flavour that pairs well with almost every dish. Do you find yourself reaching for a loaf of sourdough bread in the shops, but aren’t sure if you’re getting the real deal? Since sourdough has such a lengthy process, another category of bread has emerged – known as fake or faux sourdough, commonly referred to as ‘sourfaux’. And although this bread might have similarities to the…
As the sunshine lingers and evenings stretch out, there’s nothing quite like stepping into your garden and gathering fresh herbs for a chilled drink. Whether you’re looking to whip up a vibrant mocktail or elevate your favourite summer tipple, planting the right herbs means you’ll always be ready. Here’s my guide for South African gardens: what to grow, how to care for it, and how to use it in drinks that feel endless-summer worthy. Try this: Refreshing summer drinks Why your garden can be your drink drawer Growing herbs for drinks gives you flavour, freshness and texture straight from your patch.…
Cravings. When you swore you had your fill at dinner, but a craving for something sweet hits you a couple of hours later. Or, you’ve been super happy with your new, health-focused meals (with the cheat snack in between), but suddenly, one Wednesday afternoon, you’re craving the greasiest junk food you can get your hands on. You might tell yourself it’s a lack of discipline, a weakness, but the truth? Cravings aren’t random or out to throw your body out of whack. They’re messages your body is desperately trying to send you. Once we understand our cravings, we stop fighting…
Bring beautiful blossoms and fragrances from the garden into your home. Not only do they look good, and keep your house smelling fresh and odour-free, but they offer many other benefits – some plant varieties absorb mould and fungi spores, improving the air, and your mental health. Whether you have a magical green thumb that can tackle any plant species, or you’re just starting, there’s a species for every gardening level, taste and preferred smell. 10 Houseplants that look good and smell good too Keep your house purified and perfumed without lighting candles, incense, or filling scent stick jars. Here…
Festive season is upon us – and for foodies and treat-lovers, Mondvol has just the thing to kick off the celebrations. The beloved cookie brand is popping up around Cape Town next week, bringing its signature chunky, gooey cookies (and feel-good vibes) to three local spots. Here’s your roundup for what to expect – perfect for a weekend treat (or two). Pop-Up Lineup: Where and when Saturday, 15 November Venue: @home De Waterkant Time: 9 am – 11 am Cookies on Offer: 6 classics + 4 “Halfies,” plus a special guest: the Crème Brûlée cookie Giveaway: RSVP and be there at 10 am for a chance to win a R5,000 @home voucher Friday, 21 November Venue: CAB Foods, Kuils River…
They may look humble, but tinned chickpeas are revered for their texture, flavour, health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. It almost feels like they possess magical powers. From creamy hummus and hearty curries, to crisp fudgey brownies and fluffy meringues (yes, you read that right!), these little legumes pack quite the punch. We’re here to demystify their magical abilities, showcasing just how versatile they can be. The humble chickpea These legumes are affordable, versatile and jam-packed with vitamins and minerals. Also known as garbanzo beans, they’ve been cultivated and eaten throughout the Middle East for thousands of years. They have a…
There are moments in dining when everything aligns — when the interplay of flavours tells a story, when textures create a symphony, and when you realise, you’re experiencing something truly special. This is precisely what awaits guests at Tryn at Steenberg this summer, where Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin has crafted a seasonal menu that doesn’t just capture the essence of the season but celebrates it with exquisite artistry. A Philosophy of Sunshine “For me, this season is all about food that tastes like sunshine; bright, fresh and full of life,” Chef Kilpin shares, and this philosophy permeates every carefully considered…
Get ready to spoil your dessert-lovers with this stunning twist on a classic! This decadent cake features luscious caramelised figs nestled atop a spiced, moist base, finished with a generous drizzle of sticky toffee sauce. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a show-stopping finale for your next Christmas party, this one delivers rich flavour and holiday flair in every bite. Also See: Macadamia and chocolate upside-down cake https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/macadamia-and-chocolate-upside-down-cake Recipe and styling by Nomvuselelo Mncube Photograph by Dylan Swart
Carpets and couches are wonderful additions to any room, especially one where you’re aiming for cosy and welcoming vibes. And even though you’ve laid out all the necessary coasters, napkins, and even asked your guests to remove their shoes, it happens: the coffee spills on the armrest, the red wine glass tips over and spills onto the couch, or half the dessert ends up on your new carpet. Before you freak out, give it a go with products and materials you will have lying around at home anyway. Whether your couch or carpet, here’s how to lift food and drink…
Sink your spoon into something spooky and sweet! These Halloween dirt pudding cups layer chocolate mousse, crushed biscuits and fun creepy toppings for a treat that’s as playful as it is delicious. Perfect for party tables, kid-friendly gatherings or when you just want dessert with a bit of Halloween flair. Also See: 7 Spooky treats for a Halloween feast https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/7-spooky-treats-for-a-halloween-feast