African cuisine
Travel tips, background stories and tales from Africa – by our guides and travel experts.
Off to South Africa for a beer: local craft beer conquers the market
We know South Africa as a country of wine lovers. Whether at a braai, picnic or brunch, delicious local wine is almost always on the table. Less well known is South Africans' fondness for local beer.
Pap
"PAP" is not a misspelling of "pub" or "BAP" – PAP is PAP! The word PAP comes from Afrikaans and means porridge. It refers to a maize-based porridge, similar to polenta from northern Italy or grits in the USA. In Africa you come across PAP – or mieliepap, as it is often called in South Africa or Namibia.
Biltong
When I came to South Africa, the word "biltong" was among the unknown terms in my already modest English vocabulary at the time. It did not take long, however, to understand that it is not just a word, but that a cult lies behind it.
Pilau – a festive dish in Tanzania
Pilau, elsewhere also known as pilaf, is a rice dish that originated in the Middle East. Although not typically African, pilau is traditionally firmly rooted in Tanzania and other East African countries.
Marmite – Mar … what
I will never forget the moment I tried "Marmite" for the first time. Yes, I have to put it that bluntly, I almost threw up across the table. Even a glass of Maggi seasoning enriched with garlic, ginger and onions is easier to drink than swallowing this revolting stuff.
Potjiekos
When I started my ranger training a few years ago, there was a delicious barbecue evening on the very first day. Besides tender kudu and chicken meat, there were not only vegetable side dishes but also a special stew dish that sizzled in a pot on the fire.
Palate pleasers: bobotie
I love weekends! – Of course … who doesn't? – But since I really like eating and like even more being spoilt with a good meal, weekends are the best opportunities to appreciate restaurant menus or my friends' cooking and celebrate food.
South African chicken curry with sweet potato mash
South Africa is a country of many faces, which is also reflected in South African cuisine. The country's typical dishes are shaped mainly by English, Boer, Indian and Malay influences and are popular far beyond its borders. Anyone who has been to South Africa themselves can certainly vouch for this!