• Step into any store in February and you’ll see them: glossy heart-shaped boxes, satin ribbons and rows of neatly lined truffles waiting to be chosen. Valentine’s Day and chocolate feel so naturally paired that it’s hard to imagine one without the other. But this sweet tradition wasn’t always a given. Long before chocolate became a silky truffle or a melt-in-your-mouth slab, it was enjoyed as a bitter drink. In ancient Mesoamerican cultures, cacao was ground and mixed with spices to create a rich, frothy beverage reserved for royalty and ceremony. It was precious, powerful and deeply symbolic – a far…

    As South Africa marks Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month this February, with its focal point on National Healthy Lifestyle Day, the nation faces a familiar paradox: our profound love for communal, indulgent cuisine set against the stark reality of a growing non-communicable disease burden. With studies indicating nearly 70% of adults are overweight or obese, the call for a sustainable health shift has never been more urgent. For Omy Naidoo, founder and managing director of Newtricion Wellness Dietitians, the solution lies not in abandoning cultural staples but in optimising them.  “Our challenge and our opportunity lie in our diversity. We must craft health messages that resonate from Sandton to Soweto, that…

    The Olympics are here, and it’s time to settle in for some thrilling competitions, inspiring performances, and epic moments. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or just cheering from your couch, having a spread of delicious snacks is a must. We’ve curated a list of tasty and easy-to-make snacks perfect for enjoying during the Games. From savoury bites to sweet treats, these recipes will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the action! 1. Spicy chorizo croquettes Add some zing to your Olympic snack lineup with these Spicy Chorizo Croquettes. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these bite-sized…

    There’s something instantly celebratory about a sparkling cocktail, especially one that balances floral notes with bright fruit and bubbles. This granadilla, rose, and pomegranate cocktail is light, fragrant, and effortlessly elegant, making it perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions, or anytime you feel like elevating your glass. With just a few ingredients and 10 minutes, it’s proof that beautiful drinks don’t need to be complicated. ALSO SEE: Classic Margarita https://www.foodandhome.co.za/recipes/classic-margarita

    Juicy, spice-kissed tomato steak meets creamy avo hummus in a fresh take on this cult classic. Grilled until caramelised and smoky, the tomatoes bring warmth and a gentle heat, while the smooth avocado hummus adds richness and freshness. Piled onto crisp, golden toast and finished with your favourite toppings, this dish is perfect for a leisurely breakfast, light lunch, or stylish brunch spread that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Not only is avo toast endlessly versatile, but with its brain-boosting fats and gut-friendly fibre, it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. ALSO SEE: When and how to store your avocados in the fridge https://www.foodandhome.co.za/how-to/when-and-how-to-store-your-avocados-in-the-fridge