• The recent online trend of drinking hot water on an empty stomach has gained quite a lot of traction. It shows that more women want overall well-being that’s holistic and wholesome. But is this habit science-backed? We find out. Does starting your day with a warm cup of lemon water really make a difference? A growing wellness trend online – referred to as ‘Chinamaxxing’ – encourages drinking hot water first thing in the morning. It’s believed to aid digestion, reduce bloating and boost energy. But is there any science behind it? The traditional thinking Rooted in ancient wellness practices, particularly…

    Comfort food, but make it a little bit fiery. These spicy baby marrow and ricotta pasta shells are the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and effortless – perfect for a weeknight dinner that still delivers on flavour. Tender pasta shells cradle a creamy ricotta filling, while sautéed baby marrow brings a fresh, delicate sweetness that balances the gentle heat of chilli. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous grating of Parmesan, it’s a beautifully simple dish that leans on a handful of ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Think soft, creamy, slightly spicy, and packed…

    If you’re looking for a dinner that feels effortlessly elevated, this pesto-baked chicken with olives and goat’s cheese is exactly that. Juicy chicken is coated in fragrant basil pesto, baked with briny olives and bright lemon, then finished with creamy goat’s cheese for a rich, savoury finish. It’s simple to prepare, but delivers the kind of flavour that makes it feel a little more special. Also See: Asian-style chicken and exotic mushrooms with rice https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/asian-style-chicken-and-exotic-mushrooms-with-rice Recipe and styling by Sarah Dall Photograph by Myburgh du Plessis 

    Meet the onion that changes the mood in your kitchen – softer, sweeter, and far less dramatic.    Dulce sweet onions are the easygoing cousin of the allium world: no tears, no bite, just a mellow flavour that quietly elevates everything it touches. If you’ve ever wished onions were a little less… intense, this is your sign.   So, what exactly are dulce sweet onions? At a glance, they look like any other onion. But slice into one and you’ll notice the difference immediately. Dulce sweet onions have a lower sulphur content, which means they skip the sharpness and let their natural sugars shine.  The result? A crisp, juicy onion with a gentle sweetness that…

    There’s something quietly luxurious about a pot of salsiccia sauce left to bubble away all afternoon. It’s not fussy, not complicated – just deeply comforting. This pasta is built on patience: good-quality Italian sausage, gently coaxed into a rich, slow-cooked tomato base until the flavours soften, deepen and settle into one another. As the sauce simmers, the salsiccia releases its fragrant blend of fennel, herbs and spice, creating layers of flavour that feel both rustic and refined. A splash of red wine adds warmth, while a handful of fresh herbs at the end lifts everything just enough. Tossed through al…