The Bailliage of South Africa hosted the much-anticipated National Final of the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition 2025 at the prestigious Institute of Culinary Arts (ICA), Stellenbosch. The event brought together South Africa’s most promising young chefs, each one determined to claim a coveted place at the International Final to be held at Le Cordon Bleu in Istanbul, Türkiye, in April 2026. Winning contestants Emerging as the national champion was Juan Fourie, whose culinary skills earned him the honour of representing South Africa at the International Final in 2026. He was joined by Sheldon Wolfe (2nd place) and Amahle Sosiba (3rd…
Kickstart your mornings with a selection of our 12 breakfasts that promise to keep you fuelled just in time for lunch. Whether you’re a sweet, savoury, or wholesome breakfast lover, we’ve got you covered. 1. Chocolate banana, avocado smoothie https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/chocolate-banana-avocado-smoothie-a-tasty-vegan-spring-treat 2. Pesto and veggie frittata https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/pesto-veggie-frittata 3. Maple-Dijon breakfast croissant sandwiches https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/maple-dijon-breakfast-croissant-sandwiches 4. The moringa smoothie bowl https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/moringa-smoothie-bowl 5. 5 delicious ways with baked oats https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/5-ways-with-baked-oats 6. Quick and easy French toast with all the trimmings https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/quick-easy-french-toast-with-trimmings 7. Sesame fried eggs on tahini-yoghurt https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/sesame-fried-eggs-on-tahini-yoghurt 8. Huevos rancheros (Mexican eggs) https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/huevos-rancheros-mexican-eggs 9. Dukkah-sprinkled poached eggs with zucchini fritters and crispy prosciutto…
Last year, Food&Home introduced readers to La Motte Bakery, where master baker Markus Färbinger’s influence and philosophy brought a renewed focus on bread in its most authentic, wholesome form. This time, we return to Franschhoek to shine the spotlight on one of the driving forces behind the bakery’s success: Ricardo Slawers. Baking for more than a decade Ricardo Slawers has been baking at La Motte for 11 years. While his beautiful breads and the estate’s famous mosbolletjies have been putting satisfied smiles on the faces of bread lovers for all these years, it is since the opening of the La…
If you’re looking to impress your friends with very low effort or just want to treat yourself, then this is the recipe for you! These croissants will look like you just picked them up from a nearby bakery, and will only take you about half an hour from start to finish. Tried this recipe? Tag us @foodandhomesa #cookingwithFH on Instagram! Also See: Cinnamon, white chocolate, macadamia and cranberry cream-cheese-swirl muffins https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/cinnamon-white-chocolate-macadamia-cranberry-cream-cheese-swirl-muffins
You’ve come to the end of the mayo jar. There’s enough for a little something, but you’re tempted to toss it and crack open a new one instead. We’re here to stop you. Don’t even think about wasting that last bit of precious flavour; there are clever ways to turn every last dollop into something delicious and useful. Here’s how to give that almost-empty mayo jar new life in the kitchen. 1. Shake up quick dressings This pantry staple can be your secret weapon for flavour-packed dressings, made in the blink of an eye. Add a splash of olive oil, lemon…
This delicious Vegan choc chip skillet cookie is perfect for a slumber party, movie night or Friday dessert fest! It’s totally vegan-friendly and absolutely moreish. Our team could not stop sampling! With a soft cookie interior and thin crisp exterior and gooey melted chocolate chunks, it will solve all your cravings. We paired it with some deliciously smooth vegan coconut ice cream, but feel free to use any vegan addition you like! Read on to see how to make this for your next get together! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Food&Home (@foodandhomesa) Also See:…
We’ve all heard the notions of how certain foods can boost our moods, with many believing food has a direct impact on how we feel. Increasingly, more research is emerging that supports these notions. Low-glycemic index (GI) diets are rich in vegetables, fibre, protein, and healthy fats have been linked to improved general mood and mental health benefits. Alternatively, diets with high-GI foods have been linked to increased risk of mental health disorders, depression, and psychological distress. We’ve rounded up the top nine mood-boosting foods so you don’t have to, from salmon to dark chocolate, along with easy recipes to…
Where regenerative farming meets culinary artistry in Stellenbosch. Since Spier’s hotel reopened its doors, the wine farm has elevated its culinary offerings to extraordinary new heights. At the epicentre of this gastronomic renaissance sits Veld, an intimate dinner-only restaurant where every plate tells the story of the land from which it springs. This is farm-to-table dining in its purest expression – ingredients aren’t merely sourced, they’re cultivated in Spier’s own sprawling food gardens, raised on verdant pastures, or carefully selected from artisanal producers who share the farm’s unwavering commitment to regenerative farming practices. The adjoining wine library offers oenophiles the…
From sun-soaked afternoons to golden-hour rituals and sultry nights, Ocaso is the new Mexican-inspired dining and cocktail destination in Oxford Parks, Johannesburg. As Corona’s first dedicated flagship venue in South Africa, it was created to embody the brand’s love of golden hour moments, inviting guests to linger longer. Developed by seasoned restaurateur Heinz Rynners from Boulder Group, along with Ben Stanger and Luke Dakers of the Monseca Hospitality Group, Ocaso combines thoughtful design, vibrant food, crafted cocktails, and atmospheric rituals in a space designed to bring the brand to life. From table-side guac to sunset gongs Every day at sunset, a…
No, it’s not all in your head! It’s no secret that we all enjoy a little sweet treat, but the minute winter rolls in, suddenly, the sugar cravings get stronger. The thought of a steaming cup of hot chocolate, a slice of warm pudding, or a sticky cinnamon bun becomes almost impossible to resist. But there’s more to it than just having a “sweet tooth.” Science actually has a pretty good explanation for why we crave sugar more when the days are cold and dark. Read more: No fuss, slow-cooker, overnight recipes to make this winter Your body wants quick…
Some people collect shoes. Foodies collect pantry items. Pantry items, particularly fancy condiments, are making a bit of a splash in the culinary world, making mealtimes all about out-of-this-world flavour. Frying an egg? Pair it with chilli crisp. Making a quick stir-fry for a midweek meal? Don’t forget the oyster sauce. The pantry is a cook’s best friend, especially after a long day. We’ve rounded up a guide to help you build a better pantry. Your stomach will thank you. 10 Pantry items you should never be without 1. Olive oil Fruity, rich, and versatile, a quality olive oil adds…
Creamy, smooth and endlessly versatile, cheesecake has earned its place as a dessert favourite around the world. Like many desserts, cheesecake can be enjoyed in more than just one way – whether you love it baked until golden or prefer the chilled, no-fuss kind straight from the fridge, there’s a version for everyone to fall for. The origins of cheesecake stretch back to ancient Greece, where it was once served to athletes during the Olympic Games. Over time, the classic recipe made its way through Europe and eventually to America, where the rich, creamy New York-style cheesecake became iconic. Today,…
Pet parents know the joy of sharing a mealtime or tasty treat (cheese tax, anyone?) with their beloved fur baby, but not everything in the kitchen is safe for your dog or cat. Fear not, as this guide explores pet-safe ingredients, foods to avoid, and tasty, budget-friendly recipes you can enjoy together. What’s safe for cats and dogs to eat? It’s important to remember that, even though these foods are okay for your pet, only 5% of their diet can come from treats or leftovers. The rest has to come from their pet foods, designed to provide a balanced diet.…
Bring a playful splash of colour (and a little mischief) to your dessert table (or just as an afterschool or weekend treat) with these whimsical minion cupcakes! Ready in just over an hour, this recipe makes 8 fun and character-inspired treats that kids will love. Soft vanilla cupcakes, tinted with bright blue icing, become the perfect stage for cheeky Minion faces made from Tinkies, white chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of chocolate “hair.” With their iconic goggles and goofy smiles, these cupcakes are just as delightful to decorate as they are to eat. Perfect for birthday parties or a themed…
What’s really hiding in your favourite flavour-packed pantry staples – and what to look out for on the label. Hidden names and sneaky ingredients Flavour sachets and stock cubes are go-to pantry staples, perfect for quick dinners and comforting stews. But have you ever looked closely at what’s inside them? Along with salt and seasoning, many contain additives like MSG, sugar, and artificial flavour enhancers, often disguised behind unfamiliar names. What actually is MSG? MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is actually a naturally occurring flavour booster, glutamic acid. A type of amino acid found in a variety of foods, MSG is famous for…