These TikTok stars are on a mission to keep traditional South African flavours alive.
From signature dishes like ujeke (steamed bread) to the always sweet Kok Sisters, TikTok creators like Nompumelelo Nkosi, Onezwa Mbola and Zaynab Paruk are using their platform to blend tradition with innovation, bringing the diversity of South African cuisine to millions of appetizing audiences online.
These TikTok stars are on a mission to keep traditional South African flavours alive.
Nompumelelo Nkosi said she drew inspiration from her grandmother's kitchen to reimagine traditional Xhosa dishes such as sampu and beans for a modern audience.
“TikTok is really keeping food culture alive – it's a visual guide to recipes and it allows people to reconnect with the flavors and memories of their traditions,” she said.
For Onezwa Mbola, food is about sustainability and tradition. Having grown up in a coastal village, she takes her followers on meals made from ingredients she grew, raised or foraged, weaving stories of her Xhosa traditions into the mix.
“When I cook, I share culinary memories, and audiences often respond with stories of their own childhood meals. Food has the power to connect us to our roots,” she said.
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A fusion of flavours
And then there's Zainab Palku, who is spiced up things by blending South African and Islamic traditions.
From Ramadan-inspired dishes to new twists on milk tarts and Cocksisters, she is all about celebrating unity through food.
“I like to take traditional recipes and create something new out of them. A simple chicken curry can be made in so many different ways, depending on whether you're Indian or Cape Malay. It's hearty, festive and a dish that everyone will love.”
Have fun passing on traditions on TikTok
As Heritage Day approaches, TikTok creators are working to keep South African food culture vibrant, delicious and fun.
Through their videos, they are not only preserving traditional recipes but also introducing them to a whole new audience both locally and internationally.
“Heritage Day is not just about food, it's a day to share stories that remind us of our roots. Through TikTok I'm able to preserve those memories and educate others about the wonder of South African cuisine,” Nkosi said.
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