Baby you can light my (smokeless) fire
Smokeless fire pits … for camping, outdoor parties, your patio. The Eros and Apollo Smokeless Firepits are bold and modern … and although sleek and sexy, are made of weather-resistant, durable 304-grade stainless steel, so they’re built to last. Smokeless technology creates cleaner, cozier fires … without the constant smoke shuffle. They’re mainly for heating, but you can, if using the grill accessory, cook simple foods when the flames subside. Also, try a cast iron sandwich maker for heating up sandwiches over the open flames. Yum. Two sizes, easy to use with wood or pellets, easy to transport with a carry bag, and you can add extras like waterproof covers and folding braai grids, or buy one of the kits, with everything from the firepit to a lid and cover, heat shields and a fire tools set. From R5999 from heliosfire.com
Bitters, braais and bold flavours
It’s the last month of cooler weather … let’s make the most of it. Whether you’re gathered around a firepit, hosting a braai, or staying cosy indoors, Angostura bitters can bring a new level of warmth and depth to your gatherings. Choose from aromatic, cocoa or orange … and with just a dash or two, you can elevates cocktails, mocktails, marinades … even veggies. Try giving the Negroni aperitif a vibrant upgrade with the addition of Angostura orange bitters. This simple yet impactful addition enhances the drink’s inherent citrus notes, making it the perfect sundowner as daylight hours shorten. To make, combine 30 ml gin, 30 ml sweet vermouth, and 30 ml Campari with two dashes of orange bitters. Stir thoroughly with ice, strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice, and garnish with a twist of fresh orange peel. And give an orange kick to your savoury dishes, too. This game-changing orange bitters glaze is brilliant for roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash. Whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tsp fresh orange juice, and 2–3 dashes of orange bitters. A drizzle of this glaze just before you’ve finished roasting imparts a delightful caramelised and citrus-kissed finish, turning simple sides into stars. For more recipes and creative entertaining ideas, follow @AngosturaZA on Instagram and Facebook, or visitangosturabitters.com
We’re coveting this new range from the Serious Cook selection at Woolies. The Oslo Aluminium range with reinforced ceramic non-stick includes a pan, casserole pot and skillet, all available in this cream with gold, but also in grey, sage and black. Prices from R599 … massively desirable.
A few years ago, Gaz Oakley planted a kitchen garden in his rural home, with the aim of utilising plants to their full potential. Plant To Plate is a celebration of the bountiful produce he grew. Gaz focused on everyday ingredients – carrots and beetroot, cabbage and onions, apples and strawberries. … how to prepare them, how to preserve them, how to cook them and elevate them to the main focus on the plate. De. Lic. Ious! Hardie Grant Books, R585
Whisky meets patisserie
No clichés. No kilts. Just boundary-pushing blends and a rebellious creative spirit. Say hello to Compass Box who’ve just launched their new Core Collection locally. Alongside the cult faves The Peat Monster and Orchard House are two new expressions, Crimson Casks and this Nectarosity … described as joyously zesty … with honey, lychee, juicy apricot and pineapple, followed by toffee and vanilla and with lasting flavours of cinnamon bun. What more could you want on a chilly August evening? Nothing! From R1099 from good whisky stockists.
