News / biltong

Winter in South Africa isn’t always dramatic.

It’s not endless snow or frozen lakes. It’s crisp mornings, long shadows, early sunsets, and that particular kind of chill that settles into the house by late afternoon. It’s the smell of something warm on the stove. It’s jerseys pulled from cupboards. It’s kitchens that feel like the center of everything.

And without even thinking about it, we start reaching for certain things.

Not because we’re hungry — but because we’re remembering.

Tea at Dusk

There’s something about a South African winter evening that calls for tea.

Not rushed. Not grabbed on the way out the door. Proper tea. Rooibos tea steeping on the counter. Mugs warming cold hands. The kettle going again because someone else wants “just a little bit.”

For many, that means Red Espresso rooibos — naturally caffeine-free, rich, and grounding. It’s less about the drink and more about the pause.

Tea marks the shift from day to evening. From work to home. From noise to quiet. Even years later, in a different country, that first sip can take you right back — to kitchens filled with conversation, to parents at the table, to the familiar rhythm of family life.

Chocolate After Dinner

Winter evenings stretch longer, and somehow chocolate tastes better when it’s cold outside.

A square of Peppermint Crisp chocolate. A block of Cadbury Dairy Milk broken and shared. Maybe even a piece of Whittaker’s chocolate saved for the end of the night.

It’s not elaborate. It’s not fancy.

It’s just familiar.

Chocolate in winter feels like comfort you don’t have to explain — especially for South Africans and expats living in Canada who find themselves searching for those exact flavours when the cold settles in.

Biltong on the Counter

There’s always something savoury within reach too.

A bowl of traditional South African biltong on the kitchen counter. A quick snack before dinner. A handful grabbed while standing and talking.

Biltong carries road trips, rugby matches, braais that ran long into the night. Even in winter, when the braai might be less frequent, biltong remains part of the background. It’s grounding. It’s constant. It’s home.

For many living abroad, finding authentic biltong in Canada is more than convenience — it’s connection.

Food as Connection

For South Africans living outside of home, winter can feel heavier.

The cold is different. The light is different. The rhythm of life shifts.

And that’s when food becomes more than food.

Rooibos tea becomes memory.
Peppermint Crisp becomes childhood.
Biltong becomes identity.

These aren’t just items in a grocery shop — they’re pieces of place. Small reminders of where we come from and who we are.

What We Reach For

When the weather turns, we don’t just reach for warmth — we reach for connection.

A mug of rooibos in the evening.
Chocolate after dinner.
Biltong shared in the kitchen.
Familiar flavours that steady you.

If you’re craving those winter comforts, explore our Comfort Classics collection — a curated selection of South African, British, Australian, and New Zealand favourites that bring a little warmth home.

Father’s Day is a special occasion to show appreciation to the very best dads. This year, make your gift truly memorable with curated bundles that match his personality and interests. Whether he’s a grilling guru, sports enthusiast, or wellness warrior, we’ve got you covered with local and international flavors that show you care.

The Grill Master: Think premium boerewors and steaks paired with flavourful spice blends like Funky Ouma or Marina Braai Salt. Add sauces such as Peri-Peri, Tikka Masala, or Durban Curry for the perfect backyard barbecue.

The Sports Fan: Decorate his car with custom team decals, and pack him a snack box of biltong, droewors, liquorice, plus his favorite cold drinks. Perfect for game day.

The Coffee Connoisseur: Gift him a new set of Red Espresso Capsules, WW Infusions Teas, and a stylish mug for mornings he’ll always remember.

The Wellness & Nature Lover: Boost his immunity with Manuka Honey, relax with herbal teas, and treat him to stylish Indaba Towels from India—perfect for outdoor adventures.

The Foodie & Adventurer: Explore flavours with South African spices, gourmet dried fruits and nuts, and recipes from our curated cookbook collection.

The Traditional & Classic Dad: A box of Alette’s Rusks, Rooibos Teas, and heritage-inspired gifts like soap stones or baskets that reflect his timeless taste.

Support local, embrace global flavors, and find that perfect token of love. Start shopping early to ensure your gift arrives on time!

When you think of South African cuisine, two iconic snacks often come to mind: biltong and droewors. These flavorful delights not only tantalize the taste buds but also carry a rich history that reflects South Africa's diverse cultural tapestry.

The Historical Roots of Biltong and the Origins of Droewors

Biltong and droewors trace their origins back to the indigenous peoples of Southern Africa, who used a process of air-drying meat to preserve it for months. This method was essential for survival, allowing them to store food during extended travels and harsh seasons. The word "biltong" derives from the Dutch words "bil" (meaning rump) and "tong" (meaning strip or tongue).

The practice of drying meat was further refined with the arrival of European settlers in the 17th century. The Voortrekkers, Dutch pioneers who journeyed into the interior of what is now South Africa, adapted this technique. They incorporated vinegar, salt, and spices to cure the meat, crafting the biltong we know today.

Droewors, on the other hand, finds its roots in traditional sausage-making. "Droewors" literally translates to "dry sausage," and it is made by drying seasoned sausages. This tasty snack evolved from the popular boerewors, a fresh sausage commonly enjoyed during braais (barbecues).

Cultural Significance in South Africa

Biltong and droewors hold significant cultural value in South Africa. They are more than snacks; they are a reflection of the country’s history and adaptability. These foods became staples and were crucial during the Great Trek in the 1800s, when Boer settlers moved away from British-controlled areas in the Cape Colony into the interior of Southern Africa.

Today, biltong and droewors are beloved across all communities and are a staple at social gatherings, sporting events, and even in South African expatriate homes worldwide. They serve as a reminder of South Africa’s diverse heritage and the ways in which different cultural influences have been integrated into contemporary cuisine.

Modern Enjoyment and Global Popularity

Today, biltong and droewors are beloved both in South Africa and internationally. Their popularity has soared, and they are celebrated in markets and at gatherings, offering a taste of home for many expats.

Whether enjoyed as a snack during a rugby game, a road trip essential, or a tasty addition to a charcuterie board, biltong and droewors continue to capture the essence of South African hospitality and culinary tradition. They remain a testament to the creativity and adaptability of the people who crafted them.

In conclusion, biltong and droewors symbolize the innovative blending of cultures and the timeless tradition of preserving food. They continue to be a bridge connecting South Africans to their heritage and introducing people worldwide to a unique taste of South African culture. At African Breese Imports, we are delighted to offer these iconic snacks, and we invite you to savor the rich history they encompass with every bite.