News / South Africa

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!

Rooibos tea, also known as "red tea," has a fascinating history and a wealth of health benefits that have captivated tea lovers around the globe. Originating from the Cederberg region of South Africa, rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) has been enjoyed for centuries by the indigenous Khoisan people, who prized it for its refreshing taste and medicinal properties.

A Brief History of Rooibos

The history of rooibos tea traces back to the Khoisan tribes, who have been utilizing the plant for its health benefits and delicious flavor long before it gained popularity in the Western world. In the early 1900s, a Russian immigrant named Benjamin Ginsberg recognized the tea’s potential as a commercial product and began cultivating it, officially introducing rooibos tea to international markets.

By the 1930s, rooibos tea was being marketed as a caffeine-free alternative to traditional teas, appealing to those seeking healthier beverage options. As the awareness of its unique flavor and health benefits spread, rooibos gained popularity not only in South Africa but also in Europe and North America.

Health Benefits of Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to any wellness routine:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Rooibos is loaded with antioxidants, such as Aspalathus and nothofagin, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

2. Caffeine-Free: Unlike traditional black or green teas, rooibos is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their intake.

3. Supports Heart Health: The polyphenols found in rooibos may contribute to improved heart health by supporting circulation and reducing blood pressure.

4. Aids Digestion: Rooibos has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help calm the gastrointestinal tract and support overall digestive health.

5. Promotes Healthy Skin: Rooibos tea contains alpha hydroxy acid and zinc, both of which are beneficial for skin health. Drinking rooibos or applying it topically may help soothe skin irritation and promote a clear complexion.

6. May Support Weight Loss: Some studies suggest that rooibos can aid weight management by inhibiting fat storage and enhancing metabolism, making it a great option for those focusing on their fitness goals.

Rooibos-Infused Products

In addition to its delightful tea form, rooibos has inspired a range of products that harness its health benefits:

- Rooibos Herbal Blends: Mixed with various herbs and spices, these blends create unique flavors that contribute different health benefits while maintaining the rooibos base. Try our wide range or Herbal blended teas. 

- Rooibos Powder: This versatile ingredient can be used in smoothies, baked goods, or as a seasoning, allowing you to add the health benefits of rooibos to your meals creatively.

- Rooibos Skin Care Products: Leveraging its soothing properties, many skincare brands have incorporated rooibos into creams, lotions, and masks, offering hydration and protection from environmental stressors. Try our Annique rooibos products! 

• Rooibos-Infused Snacks: From rooibos-flavored energy bars to cookies, these snacks provide a tasty way to enjoy the health benefits of rooibos on the go.

Rooibos tea is more than just a flavorful beverage; it’s a tradition steeped in history with a myriad of health benefits. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various products, rooibos is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their wellness journey naturally. So why not brew a cup of rooibos tea today and experience its delightful taste and incredible benefits for yourself? 

Join us in celebrating the remarkable journey of rooibos and its many ways to enrich your life!