All Things South African / south african sauces

South African chips offer a delightful and unique snacking experience, reflecting the country's diverse culinary influences and love for bold flavours. If you’re in the UK and craving a taste of home or simply want to explore new snacks, South African chips are a must-try. Here’s a guide to some of the best South African chips available from the South African Spaza Shop that are sure to satisfy your snack cravings.

1. Simba Chips

Simba Chips are one of the most iconic South African chip brands, known for their wide variety of flavours. These chips are crispy, full of flavour, and a favourite among many South Africans.

Popular Flavours:
- Simba Chakalaka: Inspired by the traditional South African relish, these chips are spicy, tangy, and full of vibrant flavour.
- Simba Mrs Ball’s Chutney: These chips are flavoured with the famous Mrs Ball’s Chutney, offering a sweet and tangy taste that is uniquely South African.

Simba Chips are perfect for those who enjoy bold and distinct flavours. They are ideal for snacking on their own or adding to your next braai (barbecue) party for an extra kick of flavour.

2. Willards Cheas Naks

Willards Cheas Naks are a popular South African snack known for their light, airy texture and cheesy flavour. They offer a satisfying crunch and are loved by both kids and adults.

Cheas Naks are great for a quick snack on the go or as a tasty addition to lunchboxes. Their cheesy flavour makes them a favourite for those who enjoy a light yet flavourful snack.

These cheese curls are perfect for those who prefer a snack that is not too heavy but still offers a burst of flavour. They are great for kids and adults alike, making them a versatile snack option.

3. Frimax Tomato Sauce Flavoured Chips

Frimax Tomato Sauce Flavoured Chips bring the classic taste of tomato sauce in a crispy chip form. These chips are known for their tangy and slightly sweet tomato flavour.

Enjoy these chips on their own as a tasty snack, or pair them with your favourite dips for an enhanced flavour experience. They are also great for adding a burst of flavour to your packed lunches or picnic baskets.

If you love the taste of tomato sauce, these chips are a must-try. They provide a unique and delicious snacking experience with every bite.

4. Goldy Bytes Chilli Flavoured Roasted Maize Snack

Goldy Bytes Chilli Flavoured Roasted Maize Snacks are crunchy, spicy, and packed with flavour. Made from roasted maize, these snacks have a hearty texture and a bold chilli flavour.

These snacks are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their snacks. They are great for munching on while watching a movie, during a game night, or as a spicy addition to your snack mix.

If you enjoy snacks with a kick, Goldy Bytes Chilli Flavoured Roasted Maize Snacks will not disappoint. Their spicy flavour and crunchy texture make them a satisfying and exciting snack choice.

5. Fritos

Fritos are corn chips known for their thick, hearty crunch and robust flavours. They are perfect for dipping or enjoying straight out of the bag.

Popular Flavours:
- Fritos Tomato Salsa: These chips are flavoured with a zesty tomato salsa seasoning, providing a fresh and tangy taste.
- Fritos BBQ: Offering a smoky and slightly sweet flavour, these chips are a great choice for barbecue lovers.

Fritos are ideal for those who enjoy a substantial snack with bold flavours. They are perfect for pairing with dips or enjoying as a standalone snack.

South African chips bring a unique and delightful snacking experience to your table. From the bold flavours of Simba and Frimax to the cheesy goodness of Willards Cheas Naks and the spicy crunch of Goldy Bytes, there is something for every snack lover. Whether you're reminiscing about home or exploring new flavours, these South African chips from the South African Spaza Shop are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the rich and diverse tastes of South African snacks and bring a little piece of South Africa into your home.

For more information and to explore these snacks, visit the our shop.

South African jams and spreads offer a delightful burst of flavour and versatility, enhancing various dishes from breakfast to dessert. These condiments, made from a rich variety of fruits and ingredients native to South Africa, bring a unique twist to everyday meals. Here are some of the best ways to use South African jams and spreads to elevate your culinary experience.

1. Breakfast Boosters

Toast and Scones: The simplest and most classic way to enjoy South African jams and spreads is by slathering them on toast or scones. Whether it's a rich apricot jam, a zesty citrus marmalade, or a sweet guava spread, these jams add a burst of flavour that transforms a basic breakfast into a gourmet treat.

Porridge Topping: Add a spoonful of your favourite South African jam to your morning porridge or oatmeal. The natural sweetness and fruity flavour complement the creamy texture, making your breakfast both delicious and nutritious.

Yoghurt and Granola: Mix a dollop of jam into your yoghurt or layer it with granola for a parfait. The contrast of textures and the infusion of fruitiness provide a delightful start to the day.

2. Baking and Desserts

Cake Fillings: Use South African jams as a filling for cakes and cupcakes. A layer of plum jam or strawberry conserve can add moisture and flavour to your baked goods, making them even more indulgent.

Dessert Toppings: Drizzle a bit of jam over cheesecakes, ice cream, or panna cotta. The sweet and tangy notes from jams like guava or fig can enhance the flavours of these desserts, adding a touch of sophistication.

Pastry Glaze: Heat up your favourite jam and brush it over pastries and tarts as a glaze. This not only gives them a shiny finish but also infuses an additional layer of flavour.

3. Savory Pairings

Cheese Board: Jams and spreads are a fantastic addition to a cheese board. Pairing a sharp cheese with a sweet fig or quince jam creates a perfect balance of flavours. These spreads can complement both soft cheeses like brie and hard cheeses like cheddar.

Meat Glazes: Use South African fruit jams as a glaze for meats. Apricot or peach jam mixed with spices can create a delightful glaze for ham, pork, or chicken, adding a sweet and savoury dimension to your dishes.

Sandwiches: Spread a layer of jam on sandwiches for a gourmet twist. Pair it with roasted meats, cheeses, or even as part of a peanut butter and jam sandwich for a nostalgic treat with a South African twist.

4. Condiments and Sauces

Salad Dressings: Incorporate jams into homemade salad dressings. A spoonful of jam whisked into olive oil, vinegar, and mustard can create a delicious vinaigrette with a fruity punch.

Marinades: Use jams as a base for marinades. Mixing jam with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger can create a sweet and savoury marinade perfect for grilling or roasting.

Chutneys and Relishes: While jams are traditionally sweet, they can also be used to make chutneys and relishes. Combining them with onions, vinegar, and spices can create a savoury spread perfect for pairing with curries and roasted vegetables.

South African jams and spreads are incredibly versatile and can be used in a multitude of ways to enhance both sweet and savoury dishes. From boosting your breakfast to adding depth to your desserts and dinners, these condiments are a must-have in any kitchen. Their unique flavours and rich heritage bring a taste of South Africa to your table, making everyday meals extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just looking to experiment, incorporating South African jams and spreads into your culinary repertoire is sure to delight your taste buds, view to shop our selection here!

South African cuisine is renowned for its vibrant and diverse flavours, and a significant part of this culinary experience comes from its wide range of delicious sauces. These sauces not only add depth and complexity to dishes but also bring a taste of South African tradition to your meals. Here are five must-have South African sauces and tips on how to use them, all available from the South African Spaza Shop.

1. Mrs Ball's Chutney

Description: Mrs Ball's Chutney is perhaps the most famous South African sauce, known for its sweet and tangy flavour. Made from peaches and apricots, this chutney has a versatile use in many dishes.

How to Use: Mrs Ball's Chutney is perfect as a condiment for meats, especially cold cuts and curries. It can also be used as a glaze for roasting meats or as a dipping sauce for snacks like samosas and spring rolls.

2. Jimmy's Sauces Steakhouse Sauce

Description: Jimmy's Steakhouse Sauce is a rich and savoury sauce that enhances the flavour of grilled and barbecued meats. Its robust taste makes it a favourite for braais (South African barbecues).

How to Use: This sauce can be used as a marinade for steaks, ribs, and chicken. It also works wonderfully as a basting sauce while grilling to keep the meat juicy and flavourful.

3. Minnie's Aged Chilli Sauce

Description: Minnie's Aged Chilli Sauce brings a perfect balance of heat and flavour. It’s crafted with aged chillies, providing a deep, complex heat that enhances various dishes.

How to Use: Use Minnie's Aged Chilli Sauce to spice up your stews, soups, and stir-fries. It also makes an excellent addition to marinades, giving your grilled meats a spicy kick. For a quick snack, drizzle it over pizza or nachos.

4. Veri Peri Lemon & Herb Sauce

Description: Veri Peri's Lemon & Herb Sauce is a refreshing blend of citrus and herbs. This zesty sauce is ideal for adding a fresh and tangy note to your dishes.

How to Use: This sauce pairs excellently with chicken, especially when used as a marinade or finishing sauce. It’s also great for drizzling over roasted vegetables or using as a salad dressing to give your greens a burst of flavour.

5. Spur Steak Sauce

Description: Spur Steak Sauce is a creamy and savoury sauce perfect for enhancing the taste of your favourite steaks and other cuts of meat. Known for its rich and slightly tangy flavour, it's a staple in many South African households.

How to Use: Brush Spur Steak Sauce onto steaks, ribs, or even burgers before grilling or during the cooking process. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for chips or wedges, adding a gourmet touch to simple snacks.

Bringing South African Flavours to Your Table

Incorporating these must-have South African sauces into your cooking not only enriches your meals with unique flavours but also connects you with South African culinary traditions. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply looking to spice up a salad, these sauces from the South African Spaza Shop offer an authentic taste of South Africa. Enjoy experimenting with these sauces and discover how they can transform your everyday dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.