News / South Africa

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.

Cold weather calls for familiar flavours. Discover rooibos tea, biltong, Peppermint Crisp, Milo, and other global favourites that bring warmth, nostalgia, and a true taste of home.

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.