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As the leaves turn to vibrant hues and a crisp chill fills the air, the desire for warmth and comfort becomes almost primal. There's nothing quite like snuggling up with a steaming drink and a satisfying snack as autumn unfolds its beauty.

At African Breese, we've curated a collection of treats designed to embrace the cozy vibes of fall, celebrating the rich flavors of South Africa and beyond. From hearty stews and fragrant curries to aromatic teas and the perfect rusk pairings, we offer a diverse range of tastes and textures to create a comforting and memorable autumn experience.

South African Stews, Soups, and Curries: Hearty Flavors for Chilly Days

South African cuisine offers a range of hearty and flavourful dishes perfect for warming up on a cool autumn evening:

• Tomato Bredie: This slow-cooked stew, made with tomatoes, lamb (or beef), onions, and spices, is a South African classic. Its rich, savory flavor and tender meat make it incredibly comforting.
• Beef Curry: A flavorful and aromatic curry made with beef, onions, potatoes, and a blend of spices. Served with rice, it’s a filling and satisfying meal.
• Lamb Curry: Similar to beef curry, but made with lamb for a richer, more tender flavor. Different variations exist, with spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili.

South African Teas and Coffees: Aromatic Warmth in Every Sip

South Africa offers a unique range of teas and coffees with distinct flavors and aromas:

• Rooibos Tea: This naturally caffeine-free herbal tea is known for its earthy, slightly sweet flavor and numerous health benefits. It's a perfect choice for a relaxing evening.
• Monsoon Railway Chai: Inspired by the flavors of India, this chai blend features black tea, warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. It's delicious on its own or with milk and a touch of sweetener. *Filter Coffee - Can offer any type of roast, can also highlight unique beans.

The Perfect Rusk Pairing: A Dunking Tradition

Rusks, twice-baked biscuits popular in South Africa, are the ideal accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee. Their hard, crunchy texture is perfect for dunking, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors of the beverage. The perfect cozy snack, rusk flavors include buttermilk, aniseed or condensed milk.

Hot Chocolate with a Twist: Indulgent Warmth with Milo

Elevate your hot chocolate experience with the classic taste of Milo:

• Milo: This malted chocolate powder, beloved in South Africa and around the world, can be added to hot milk to create a comforting and nostalgic beverage. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra-indulgent treat.

Cozy Recipe Ideas:

• South African Spiced Tea Latte: Steep Rooibos tea or Monsoon Railway Chai in hot milk. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Rusk Bread Pudding: Use crushed rusks instead of bread in your favorite bread pudding recipe. This adds a unique texture and a subtle flavor. *Lamb curry paired with a Milo to enhance the overall cozy experience.

Embrace the warmth and comfort of autumn with a taste of South Africa and beyond! Visit African Breese in Vancouver or shop online to discover our selection of cozy comfort foods and fall flavors. From hearty stews and fragrant curries to aromatic teas and the perfect rusk pairings, we have everything you need to create a comforting and flavorful fall experience.

Halloween is synonymous with costumes, spooky decorations, and, most importantly, a mountain of candy! But this year, why not ditch the usual sugary suspects and embark on a global candy adventure?

At African Breese, we've scoured the world to bring you a curated collection of unique and delicious Halloween treats that will delight trick-or-treaters and impress party guests. From the creamy chocolates of the UK to the chewy sweets of South Africa and the iconic biscuits of Australia, prepare to discover a world of flavor beyond the typical Halloween haul.

UK Candy Classics: A Taste of Britain in Every Bite

The UK offers a treasure trove of beloved candies, perfect for adding a touch of British charm to your Halloween:

• Cadbury Chocolate Bars: Indulge in the smooth, creamy goodness of Cadbury Dairy Milk, the crunchy delight of a Crunchie bar, or the nutty perfection of a Whole Nut. These iconic chocolate bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles: These chewy, fruit-flavored candies with a distinctive sugar coating are a classic for a reason. Their vibrant flavors and satisfying texture make them a delightful treat.
• Rowntree's Jelly Babies: These soft, chewy, and fruit-flavored jelly candies in adorable baby shapes are a whimsical and delicious addition to any Halloween candy bowl.

South African Sweets: A Taste of Sunshine and Sweetness

South Africa offers a range of unique and flavourful sweets that are sure to spark curiosity and delight:

• Fizzers: These fizzy, compressed candy tablets offer a fun, tingling sensation on the tongue and come in a variety of fruit flavors.
• Chappies Bubblegum: Known for its iconic wrapper featuring "Did you know?" facts, Chappies bubblegum offers a long-lasting, fruity flavor and the opportunity to blow impressive bubbles.
• Beacon Milk Chocolate: Smooth, rich, and creamy, Beacon milk chocolate is a South African classic that will satisfy any chocolate craving.

Australian and New Zealand Delights: Down Under Treats That Are Out of This World!

Step beyond Australia and discover the sweet delights of New Zealand, known for its own unique confectionery creations! Here are some Down Under treats that promise a fun and flavorful Halloween:

• Pascall Pineapple Lumps (New Zealand): These chewy, pineapple-flavored candies covered in chocolate are a beloved Kiwi classic. Their unique texture and sweet-tangy flavor make them a truly unforgettable treat. Imagine the surprise on trick-or-treaters' faces when they discover these!
• Pascall Jet Planes (New Zealand): These chewy, gummy candies shaped like colorful airplanes are a childhood favorite in New Zealand. They're bursting with fruity flavors and are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your Halloween candy bowl.

Spooky Snack Ideas: Beyond the Candy Bowl

Get creative and use these international snacks in your Halloween party spread:

• Cadbury Flake Graveyard Parfaits: Crumble Cadbury Flake bars over chocolate pudding parfaits to create a "graveyard" effect. Add gummy worms for an extra spooky touch.
• "Brain" Cupcakes with Fruit Pastilles: Decorate cupcakes with pink frosting and arrange Fruit Pastilles to resemble a brain.
• Chappies Bubblegum "Eyeballs": Wrap Chappies bubblegum in white fondant and draw a pupil with edible marker to create creepy "eyeballs."

Tips for a Unique Halloween Candy Bowl

• Offer Variety: Include a mix of chocolates, hard candies, and chewy sweets to cater to different preferences.
• Label Everything: Clearly label each type of candy, especially if it contains common allergens.
• Embrace the Theme: Choose candies with spooky colors and shapes, like black licorice or gummy spiders.
• Surprise and Delight: Add a few unexpected international treats to create a memorable and exciting experience for trick-or-treaters.

This Halloween, make your celebration unforgettable with a taste of the world! Visit African Breese in Vancouver or shop online to discover our amazing selection of international candy and spooky treats. Prepare for a Halloween filled with delightful surprises and delicious discoveries!

Canadian Thanksgiving is a cherished time for gathering with family and friends, centered around a table laden with delicious food. While the traditional roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce hold a special place, why not elevate your celebration this year with a touch of international flair?

At African Breese, we believe that blending familiar traditions with global flavors can create a truly memorable dining experience. Whether you're a South African expat longing for the tastes of home, a British national seeking classic condiments, or simply an adventurous foodie eager to expand your Thanksgiving horizons, we offer a curated selection of ingredients to help you create a unique and unforgettable feast.

Elevating Classics with South African Spices

South Africa's diverse culinary heritage offers a wealth of flavors to enhance your Thanksgiving meal. Consider incorporating these spices into your dishes:

• Cape Malay Curry Powder: This aromatic blend, typically featuring coriander, cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, can add a warm and subtly sweet note to your stuffing. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste.
• Peri-Peri Seasoning: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of peri-peri seasoning can add a fiery kick to roasted vegetables or even your turkey rub.
• Biltong Spice Mix: If you're a fan of the savory, umami flavors of biltong (South African dried, cured meat), try adding a biltong spice mix to your gravy or even your mashed potatoes for a unique twist.

U.K. Sauces and Condiments: Adding a Savory Touch

British condiments offer a range of complementary flavors to enhance your Thanksgiving main course and leftovers:

• Branston Pickle: This sweet and tangy relish made from diced vegetables is a perfect accompaniment to turkey or ham. Try serving it alongside your cheese board or adding a spoonful to your leftover turkey sandwiches.
• HP Sauce: Known for its rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor, HP Sauce makes an excellent glaze for turkey or ham. Simply brush it on during the last 30 minutes of roasting.

Bobotie-Inspired Stuffing Recipe: A Fusion of Flavors

Here's a recipe that combines the flavors of South African Bobotie with the classic Thanksgiving stuffing:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 tablespoons Cape Malay curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 6 cups cubed bread (day-old is best)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cape Malay curry powder, turmeric, ginger, and cloves. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
5. Add the dried apricots, raisins, and almonds.
6. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, milk, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Add the meat mixture to the bread mixture and mix well.
8. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. If using a bay leaf, tuck it into the stuffing.
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.

Unique Thanksgiving Treats

Consider these ideas for adding international desserts to your table:

• Rusks in Trifle or Bread Pudding: South African rusks can add a delightful crunch and unique flavor to traditional trifles or bread puddings.

Tips for Incorporating International Flavors

• Start Small: Begin by adding small amounts of spices or sauces to your dishes and taste as you go.
• Read Labels: Pay attention to the ingredients in pre-made spice blends or sauces to ensure they complement your dish.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Thanksgiving is the perfect time to try new things! Be adventurous and have fun exploring new flavors.

This Thanksgiving, dare to be different and create a truly memorable feast by incorporating international flavors. Visit African Breese in Vancouver or shop online to discover a world of unique ingredients that will make your celebration unforgettable.

Heritage is at the heart of what makes us unique. Whether you’re celebrating your South African roots or embracing Canadian traditions, incorporating food and lifestyle products from diverse cultures is a wonderful way to honour family stories, memories, and identity.

Explore South African Flavours:
Bring authentic tastes to your table with our premium spices, sauces like Cape Malay Curry, and aromatic teas. Cooking traditional dishes like bobotie, curry, or braai on the grill connects you to the rich culinary history of South Africa.

Support Local & Global Artisans:
We also feature beautiful Indian Indaba Towels—handcrafted, vibrant, and perfect for everyday use. Complement your home with heritage-inspired gifts like soap stones, handcrafted baskets, or key rings that showcase the rich artisan craftsmanship of India and South Africa.

Incorporate into Daily Life:
Create new traditions by sharing South African recipes with your family, using heritage products as thoughtful gifts, or decorating your home with cultural touches. Celebrate your roots or embrace new cultural experiences right here in Canada.

Why It Matters:
Supporting these products celebrates cultural diversity, promotes small artisans, and helps keep traditions alive—connecting generations and reminding us of our shared stories.

Start exploring today—embrace, celebrate, and honour your heritage with our curated selection of foods and lifestyle products!