South African Snack Traditions: Bringing a Taste of SA to the U.S.
For South Africans living abroad, few things bring back memories quite like a favorite snack. These treats are more than just tasty bites—they're reminders of home, childhood, and good times shared with family and friends. Each one brings a little taste of South Africa, no matter where you are.
In this guide, we'll dive into some of the most cherished South African food and snacks. Whether you're hoping to relive old memories or curious to try something new, here's a look at the snacks South Africans hold close and the stories they tell.
And if you’re craving these flavors, you can order a South African snack box filled with your favorites from Treats from Home.
A Sweet Start to South African Snacking
In South Africa, tea time isn't complete without a good biscuit. These treats are best enjoyed with family or friends over a cup of tea.
Eet-Sum-Mor Biscuits
The name says it all. You'll want to "eat some more!" Launched by Bakers in the 1940s, these buttery, crumbly biscuits are perfect for tea time. They bring back memories of cozy afternoons filled with stories and laughter. They're a true South African classic.
Marie Biscuits
Marie Biscuits might look plain, but they're essential in any South African home. Lightly sweet and delicious with a cup of Rooibos tea, they're also used in no-bake desserts like chocolate fridge cake. Many kids loved spreading them with butter or peanut butter as a snack-time favorite.
Tennis Biscuits
These coconut-flavored biscuits are a beloved South African snack classic. Delicious on their own or as the base for the famous Peppermint Crisp tart—a no-bake dessert layered with Tennis Biscuits, whipped cream, caramel, and crushed Peppermint Crisp chocolate. This treat is a staple at gatherings, bringing back warm memories for many who grew up in South Africa.
Crunchy, Chocolatey Delights
South African chocolate bars are all about fun textures and bold flavors. They are something everyone remembers fondly from their school days.
Crunchie Bar
Introduced in South Africa in the 1960s, the Crunchie bar is a favorite among kids and adults. Its crunchy honeycomb center coated in chocolate delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. For many South Africans, eating a Crunchie brings back memories of stopping by the local "spaza shop" after school with friends.
Tex and Bar One Bars
Tex bars are light and crispy, featuring a wafer center that is perfect for a quick snack. Bar One, with its layers of caramel and nougat, is more filling and often called the "25-hour day bar" because it's so satisfying. Both bars are favorites among students and anyone needing a little chocolatey boost.
Peppermint Crisp
Peppermint Crisp is a true South African original with a bright green minty center enveloped in chocolate. Created in the 1960s, this bar is so beloved that it's the star ingredient in the iconic peppermint crisp tart. Whether enjoyed alone or in a dessert, its refreshing, minty crunch is unforgettable.
Iconic Treats from Childhood
These classic candies are ones that almost every South African kid grew up with. They bring back memories of school days, family road trips, and pocket-money treats from the local shop.
Fizzers
Fruity, chewy, and slightly fizzy, Fizzers have been a South African favorite since the 1970s. With fun flavors and a unique texture, many remember Fizzers as a school lunchbox staple or a treat after a long day. They're fun to eat and full of childhood nostalgia.
Champion Toffees
These chewy toffees are a challenge for your jaw but totally worth it! Known for their rich, lasting flavor, Champion Toffees are perfect for long road trips or a quiet afternoon. You'll find Champion toffees in almost every school kid's pocket.
Fizz Pops
Fizz Pops are the ultimate party treat. For South African kids, getting a Fizz Pop was often a reward for good behavior or a treat at birthday parties. They bring back memories of fun playground moments and family celebrations.
Smarties
South African Smarties are similar to M&M's but with their own unique twist. Kids often shared (or hoarded!) these colorful chocolates. They've been appearing in party bags and snack boxes for generations. Fun and bright, they're perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Endearmints
Endearmints are refreshing mints found in almost every South African home. Perfect for freshening up after a meal or sharing with friends and family.
Traditional and Everyday Snacks
Some snacks are just part of everyday life in South Africa, especially rusks. These hearty snacks are a breakfast and tea-time favorite.
Ouma Rusks
Ouma Rusks are hard, chunky biscuits made for dunking. They've been loved by South Africans since the 1930s. Created by a real "ouma" (grandmother) in a small town, they've become a breakfast staple. Ouma Rusks are all about home and family.
Dumle Buttermilk Rusks
Similar to Ouma but a bit softer, Dumle Rusks are popular with those who prefer a quicker dunking experience. They're perfect for afternoon snacks or a quick treat with a hot drink. Like all rusks, they're best enjoyed with friends or family, making them a true South African snack tradition.
Get a Taste of South African Culture
South African snacks offer a comforting taste of home, especially for those living abroad. For newcomers, they're a delicious way to experience South African culture.
From dunking a rusk in tea to enjoying the minty crunch of a Peppermint Crisp, each snack tells its own story. You can enjoy all your favorites by ordering a South African snack box from Treats from Home. It’s a perfect way to bring a little taste of SA to wherever you are!
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