South Africa’s rich culinary heritage took centre stage this past week as Proudly South African, in partnership with The Breadbox Bakery and Studio, hosted a heart-warming and spirited Winter Cook-Off in Midrand.

• This winter cook-off was more than just a culinary contest; it was a celebration of South African culture, small business excellence, and the power of buying local.
• From reimagined chakalaka to heritage-inspired sauces and aromatic stews, the dishes were bold, inventive, and proudly South African.
• The competitive spirit among the teams was as fiery and flavourful as the dishes they plated for the judges.
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The event brought together a vibrant group of media personalities, food lovers, and Proudly South African supporters for an engaging afternoon of creativity, competition, and local flavour.

Proudly South African, the country’s official Buy Local campaign, continues to lead the charge in encouraging both businesses and consumers to choose local first. Its mission is rooted in stimulating much-needed job creation and economic growth by promoting locally produced goods, services, and industries.

Only companies that have met rigorous local content and quality standards are awarded membership and may carry the Proudly SA logo – making it a trusted symbol of homegrown excellence. This cook-off served as a dynamic showcase of these values in action.

Participants arrived at The Breadbox Bakery and Studio, which transformed into a hub of energy and aromas, where the comforting smells of spices, grilled meats, and simmering vegetables filled the air. The Sandton Times, among others, led an enthusiastic team of food-loving media professionals who embraced the challenge with equal parts determination and delight.

Under the guidance of Chef Liziwe Matlhoha, teams were introduced to a menu inspired by South Africa’s beloved ‘Seven Colours’ – a traditional Sunday lunch made up of a colourful spread of meats, rice, and assorted vegetables. But this version came with an unexpected twist.

Each of the six competing teams received a different mystery box filled with only locally sourced ingredients. With no prior knowledge of what awaited inside, the teams were tasked with crafting their own creative interpretations of the iconic ‘Seven Colours’. What followed was a flurry of chopping, seasoning, simmering, and plating as participants leaned into their culinary instincts and teamwork to bring their dishes to life in 90-minutes.

Despite the icy winter chill outside, the spirit inside the Breadbox Studio was nothing short of electric. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and filled with laughter, friendly rivalry, and plenty of taste-testing. The event not only allowed participants to showcase their cooking prowess but also gave them the opportunity to learn more about South African-made products that deserve a permanent place in every kitchen pantry.

Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, Chief Marketing Officer at Proudly South African, highlighted the significance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the importance of collaborative efforts like this one. The partnership with The Breadbox Bakery and Studio stood as a prime example of what can be achieved when local organisations work together. The event demonstrated that supporting South African businesses isn’t just a matter of patriotism – it’s an opportunity to unlock exceptional quality, foster entrepreneurship, and drive positive economic impact.

The Breadbox Bakery and Studio, founded by Matlhogonolo Ledwaba, is more than a culinary venue – it is a beacon of empowerment, job creation, and skills development. By opening its doors for the cook-off, the studio provided a tangible example of what it means to create spaces that nourish both communities and careers. The studio’s involvement in the event not only showcased its facilities and culinary flair but also underscored the essential role that local enterprises play in uplifting South African society.

Happy took the opportunity to urge South Africans to make mindful choices in their everyday purchases. Choosing local, whether it’s fashion, food, or furniture, has a ripple effect that strengthens communities and supports livelihoods. Every item produced and purchased within South Africa contributes to the growth and resilience of the economy. These seemingly small decisions, like dining at a neighbourhood café or choosing a locally designed outfit, are the building blocks of sustainable development.

The Winter Cook-Off concluded with full bellies, broad smiles, and a renewed sense of cooking skill. It wasn’t just about winning or losing; it was about celebrating what makes South African cuisine, and the people behind it, so special. As the final dishes were plated and the last spoonful’s shared, the event left participants and spectators alike with more than just culinary inspiration.

The Proudly South African Winter Cook-Off was a spirited display of unity, culture, and taste. It served up more than just food – it served up a vision of what’s possible when we invest in our own. From the mystery boxes to the lively team efforts and the celebration of local innovation, the event was a delicious reminder that our heritage is something to savour and support.

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