Moving to South Africa is an exciting adventure, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture is through its food. South African cuisine is a melting pot of flavours, influenced by a mix of traditions and influences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, barbecued meats or comforting baked goods, South Africa’s food scene has something to offer.
An Introduction to Australian Cuisine
There’s a lot to look forward to when you’re moving to South Africa, but the food really does stand out as being something special. South Africa is a country with a diverse culinary heritage, influenced by indigenous African, Dutch, Malay, Indian and British traditions. This mix of cultures has resulted in a vibrant and varied food scene, one that caters to every taste. Whether you’re moving for work, to study, for a change of family life or in search of a new adventure, exploring the food culture is sure to be an exciting part of your journey.
‘Must Try’ South African Food and Snacks
South African cuisine is known for its bold flavours, rich spices and hearty meals, providing a unique culinary experience when you move. Here are some ‘must try’ South African dishes and snacks that you shouldn’t miss when you move.
- Biltong and Droëwors – These dried, cured meats are similar to jerky, but they have a unique South African flavour, often made from beef, game meat or ostrich. They are popular as high protein snacks and are widely available at markets and grocery stores.
- Boerewors – A flavourful spiced sausage, traditionally made with a mixture of beef and pork or lamb. It is often cooked on a braai – a type of barbecue, which the South African climate makes an option year round – and served with pap, a maize porridge, and tomato sauce.
- Koeksisters – A sweet, deep fried pastry soaked in syrup. The Cape Malay version, known as a koesister, is softer and covered with coconut.
- Rooibos Tea – A caffeine-free herbal tea native to South Africa, known for its distinctive red colour and health benefits. It is commonly enjoyed with milk and honey.
- Amarula – A creamy liqueur made from the marula fruit, enjoyed on its own, in cocktails or poured over desserts.
Traditional South African Cuisine
South Africa’s traditional cuisine is a fusion of various cultural influences. Some popular dishes include:
- Bobotie – A Cape Malay dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping. It is often served with yellow rice and sambals.
- Bunny Chow – A uniquely South African dish originating from the Indian community in Durban. It features a hollowed out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans
- Pap – Pap – a stiff maize porridge – is a staple in many South African households. It is commonly served with chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish that adds a flavourful kick to the meal.
- Sosaties – Sosaties is skewered, marinated meat – usually lamb or chicken – that’s been grilled over an open flame.
- Potjiekos – A slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast iron pot over an open fire. It typically features a mix of meat, vegetables and rich spices.
South African Street Food
If you enjoy street food, South Africa offers some delicious options that reflect the country’s culinary diversity. Street food in South Africa is a big part of the food scene, and there are a lot of unique dishes to try.
- Gatsby – A large sandwich filled with fries, meat, sauces and sometimes salad. It is a popular fast food item, especially in Cape Town.
- Vetkoek – Deep fried dough that can be enjoyed with savoury fillings, like curried mince or cheese, or as a sweet treat with jam and syrup.
- Samoosas – A South African adaptation of the Indian samosa, these pastries are filled with spiced meat, vegetables or cheese. They are commonly found at markets and food stalls.
- Boerie Rolls – These are South Africa’s take on a classic hot dog, featuring a grilled boerewors sausage served in a bun with tomato and onion relish
Supermarkets and Grocery Shopping
Shopping for groceries in South Africa is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, with a variety of supermarkets, all catering to different preferences and budgets. Woolworths is well known for its high quality fresh produce, gourmet ready made meals and ethically sourced products, making it a favourite among those looking for premium grocery options. Pick n Pay is one of the country’s largest supermarket chains, and it provides a wide selection of everyday essentials at competitive prices, making it a convenient choice for regular shopping.
If you’re after a mix of affordability and quality, Checkers is worth checking out, as it offers everything from fresh bakery goods to international products. For those who prefer fresh, organic produce, Food Lovers Market and local farmers’ markets offer a variety of fruits, vegetables and artisanal products.
Eating Out in South Africa
There are a lot of places to live in South Africa and regardless of where you choose, you won’t struggle to find places to eat out. Dining out in South Africa is an adventure in itself, with an array of restaurants offering everything from fine dining to quick and tasty street food.
Restaurants, Bakeries and Cafes
If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg boast some of the best restaurants in the world, where innovative chefs create unique gourmet dishes using local ingredients. For a more casual experience, South African bakeries, fast food chains and cafes serve a variety of delicious meals, from freshly baked pies to hearty breakfasts.
Food Markets and Braais
Food markets are a fantastic way to experience the diversity of South African cuisine in one place, with vendors offering everything from curries to locally made cheeses. But, no culinary journey in South Africa is complete without experiencing a braai. A braai is a social gathering where friends and family come together to grill meat, share stories and enjoy the hospitality that South African culture is known for.
Where to Find Your Favourite British Foods in South Africa
Moving to a new country often means adjusting to new flavours. But, if you’re craving the familiar taste of home, you’re in luck. As an expat in South Africa, you shouldn’t struggle to find your favourite British food. Large supermarkets – such as Woolworths and Checkers – frequently stock a selection of imported British goods, including classics like Heinz baked beans, Walkers crisps and Twinings tea. There are also specialty import stores and delis that cater specifically to expats, offering a wide range of British biscuits, chocolates and condiments that might not be available in regular supermarkets.
Enjoy South African Food as an Expat
Before you know it, you’ll be savouring biltong, mastering the art of a perfect braai and indulging in the rich flavours of South African cuisine. From the moment you arrive in South Africa, you’ll see why the country’s cuisine is something to write home about. To make your transition to South Africa smoother, enlist the help of a professional international removals company, such as United International Removals. With our expertise and help, you’ll be settling in and enjoying South African food before you know it. Get in touch to find out more.