1945 was a year which began with the world at war, and ended with the signing of the United Nations Charter. Three quarters of a century later, and things have changed the world over - and back home. We now have a democratically elected government, 11 official languages, and one of the most revered constitutions globally. However, despite these massive shifts, Laager Rooibos, which was founded in 1945, is still one of South Africa’s best loved tea brands.
A story told in the tea leaves
The history of Rooibos dates back possibly thousands of years when this tea was first used by South Africa’s KhoiSan people as a medicinal herb – the leaves harvested from the Aspalathus Linearis plant were used to make natural remedies for a variety of ailments.
Grown exclusively on the Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape, Rooibos was produced commercially for the first time in the 1930s, making Laager Rooibos one of the first commercial Rooibos tea brands in existence. Rooted in history, the brand heroes its origins among the Rooibos fields and Cederberg Mountains which form the iconic backdrop to the Laager Rooibos box.
Many countries have tried, and failed, to grow Rooibos with the Cederberg region the only place where this natural herb thrives. Although the processing of Rooibos has been refined and mechanised over the years, it is not that far removed from how it was traditionally harvested and processed. Bunches of leaves were rolled into hessian bags and transported down the mountain by donkeys, at which point the leaves and stems were chopped and then bruised with mallets before being left to ferment, and later spread out and dried under the hot African sun.
Over the years, the many health benefits of Rooibos have been uncovered, in large part thanks to the extensive research funded by The South African Rooibos Council, a body of which Laager Rooibos is a part. These health benefits are now widely acknowledged and have contributed significantly to the growing popularity of Rooibos, not only in South Africa but across the globe, with several popular figures and celebrities touting its natural benefits.
A tradition of strength and community
Even during the toughest times, the Laager Rooibos brand has been a beacon of hope for many. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the brand has provided online educational support for parents and caregivers, as well as donating goods where needed.
Laager Rooibos has seen good growth in sales during the lockdown period, as many have sought to take advantage of the many health benefits of Rooibos tea. As The South African Rooibos Council (SARC) has noted, the health benefits that Rooibos boasts make it the perfect pantry staple right now. Laager Rooibos is also the only tea that carries The Heart & Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) stamp of approval – a symbol that is used to identify heart and brain-healthy food and beverages.
The Laager Rooibos brand continues to find innovative ways to engage with and uplift South African communities through the Joekels Communitea Foundation. Using this platform, the brand is supporting heart health, children’s organisations, non-profit organisations and local businesses.
“It’s been such a fulfilling experience being a part of the Laager Rooibos journey, watching the brand grow over the years and evolve to meet different needs,” said Jonathan Kelsey, Co-Founder of Joekels Tea Packers, manufacturers of Laager Rooibos. “We’ve benefited from various partnerships over the years, including our endorsement from the HSFSA and our partnership with Laager ambassadors and dynamic South African chefs, Lebo and TeboNdala(@Withlovefromthetwins).And while the brand continues to evolve, the strong, refreshing taste of Laager Rooibos has remained consistent over the years – because strength is our tradition.”
Joe Swart, Kelsey’s business partner and Joekels Co-Founder and -Director added, “There are so many exciting new projects in the pipeline for the Laager Rooibos brand – we might be 75 years in but this is just the start. We will continue to find innovative ways to strengthen our connection with South African communities, and we look forward to the many adventures we will embark on together.”
Laager Rooibos and With Love From the Twins Enjoy double 75th celebration in 2020
In 1945, South Africa had two momentous occurrences – the arrival of Anna Ndala into the world and the introduction of the delicious taste of Laager Rooibos to the market. And this year, Lebo and Tebo Ndala from With Love From the Twins the double joy of celebrating their love of Laager Rooibos tea alongside the 75th birthday of their beloved gogo, Anna Ndala, affectionately known as ‘Koko’.
The Pretoria-born twins, renowned South African chefs and Laager Rooibos ambassadors, said the infusion of traditional tastes and Rooibos flavours in their food could be connected to Koko, who was instrumental in their cooking education growing up.
“Connections and traditions keep us grounded, they remind us of who we really are and we can carry these traditions to our future families one day,” explained Tebo. “Food and family recipes are important – there is really no better way to connect!They bring such a sense of nostalgia. To this day, we still have our ‘Seven-colour Sunday’ brunch every week with food in a rainbow of colours; andwe still eat ‘ting’(a traditional Sotho porridge) at every special occasion. These traditions that we carry today are the traditions that have passed through each generation of our family.”
Koko, who hails from Mamelodi in Gauteng, celebrated her 75th birthday on 30 April in lockdown with her family. The twins prepared a delicious lunch and lemon cake which was enjoyed with her favourite beverage – a cup of Laager Rooibos.
“She loves her Laager Rooibos tea,” said Tebo. “She’s been drinking it since way before we were born. It’s the drink of choice every time we have a visitor at home!”
Commenting on Koko’s influence growing up, Lebo said: “She’s very strict and has shaped the way we are today. She has instilled strong morals and values in both of us. She likes order, she’s a hard worker and expects us to work hard as well. She has taught us how to make traditional South African dishes and helped us stay rooted to our culture, no matter where we are.”
As a way to honour Koko’s cultural heritage on her 75th birthday, the Ndala familywill be sharing a special recipe infused with the unmatched flavour and healthy benefits of Laager Rooibos.
“’Dombolo’ (steamed bread) is our grandma’s favourite dish!” said Lebo. “She used to make it for us all the time. We even have a special ‘dombolo’ pot at home that has probably been there since before we were even born. This specific dish definitely reminds us of her.”
Commenting on her 75th birthday, Koko said: “I feel blessed to be 75 years old and enjoying my bonus years – anything past 70 years is lucky!My advice to the young people is that it’s important to work hard, to never expect handouts and to always build their own legacies.”
Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager, Candice Sessions, extended birthday wishes to Mrs Ndala, saying the twins were an exemplary reflection of her values today: “The wonderful work done by Lebo and TeboNdala and contribution to the culinary world is a real testament to the lessons instilled by their gogo. It’s these morals and traditional connection that make the twins such wonderful representatives of the Laager Rooibos brand.”
Ingredients - Laager Rooibos Steamed Bread
720g Cake Flour
1 Tbsp Salt
1 Tbsp Sugar
10g Dry Instant Yeast
375ml Lukewarm Water
65ml Oil
2 Laager Rooibos teabags boiled in water and brewed for 5-10mins
Method
For more exciting recipe ideas, follow @withlovefromthetwins and @LaagerRooibos on Facebook.
The same can be said for presidents, leaders, CEO’s, and the general public around the world at this very moment in time.
We have all been put in hot water and our strength is being put to the test.
Fortunately for us as South Africans, President Cyril Ramaphosa has proven himself, thus far, to be a leader of exceptional strength and foresight during the crisis we all find ourselves in.
He has prioritised the lives of South African citizens, he has sought input from experts in their fields, and he has instilled confidence and unity in the hearts and minds of South Africans from the Cape to Limpopo.
When Joekels Tea Packers was formed in 1994, the country was at a different kind of crossroads. But there are many parallels.
Many felt fear and uncertainty for what the future held.
Long-standing ways of doing things were challenged and changed. While many in SA saw doom and gloom we at Joekels saw hope.
1994 taught us many things.
It taught us that we are stronger together.
That when we unite behind a common good, and a good leader, anything is possible.
It taught us that positive change can be born from our darkest moments.
Let us carry that same hope and those same values in our hearts as we face the current challenges, together.
For our part, we will continue to make sure that all South Africans still have their favourite tea brands in reach, while (with the help of our dedicated production team) we continue to produce Laager Rooibos, Tetley, Tea4Kidz and our other brands. We will do many things the same – like ensuring the quality and safety of all our products under the guidance of our globally-recognised FSSC 22000 Food Safety & Quality Certification. And we will do many things differently – like working in smaller teams, and taking additional health and hygiene precautions, to prioritise the safety of our staff.
We are also ramping up some of the work we were doing under our Joekels CommuniTea Foundation to offer support to others during this time:
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to those who are on the frontlines.
Izandla ziyagezana. The power to overcome this is within all of our hands.
]]>Adding a theme to a High Tea adds a little excitement to the day. Whether you simply pick a colour or a fun item like a funky hat that each guest needs to wear. Dust off your matching tea set sitting at the back of the cupboard.
Pick and choose the different types of tea your family will be enjoying, mix in some iced tea options for the kids. Boil the water and get your teapot ready.
Throwing a High Tea doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank with décor and special touches. Pick some fresh flowers from the garden, get a few candles lined up on a table cloth. Have some fun and make a few name cards to place on the table. There are no rules to décor. All that really matters is who you have with you and the special time you share with them.
Much like décor, the snacks and sweets that you serve at your gathering don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Have a look in your pantry and see what you can work with, small triangle sandwiches, fresh fruit dipped on chocolate or yogurt. Get creative and make a fresh batch of cookies, scones or venture out making rice crispy treats.
]]>South Africa’s @withlovefromthetwinsLaager Rooibos ambassadors, Lebo and TeboNdala, entertained audiences at Exclusive Books Gateway on Thursday, 30 January as they shared delicious anecdotes at the launch of their new book, ‘Food Stories’. This flavourful cookbook includes a dedicated ‘Spill the Tea’ chapter, overflowing with Laager Rooibos-infused recipes that will spice up any occasion.
“Growing up in a Pretoria township, whenever you went to visit someone – no matter what the time of day – you were offered tea and scones,” recalled Tebo. “Rooibos tea is such a part of our culture and always brings back such fond memories for us.”
The pages of ‘Food Stories’ are lined with enticing recipes influenced by the twins’ township upbringing, as well as their various travels abroad. In the ‘Spill the Tea’ chapter, the pair have included everything from baked goods to cocktails, all infused with the unique flavours of Laager Rooibos.
“The chapter really opens up the incredible range of tea for cooking as well as the wonderful flavours of Laager Rooibos,” continued Tebo. “I think people are going to be blown away by these recipes!”
The launch event was attended by some of the country’s most renowned influencers and celebrities, among them MasterChef SA winner, Kamini Pather; and Durban-based fashion designer, Kathrin Kidger, who dressed Lebo and Tebo for the evening. Also in attendance were local foodies, members of the media, as well as representatives from Laager Rooibos.
Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager, Candice Sessions, hosted an informal discussion with the pair who shared colourful anecdotes about their food journey, food influences and personal taste preferences. Commenting on the event, Candice said: “Food Stories is part autobiography, part cookbook, which tells such wonderful stories about how the twins developed their passion for food. Understanding the influences and background behind the recipes just makes them that much more enjoyable!”
‘Food Stories’ is available from all Exclusive book stores, select Bargain Books and CAN stores, and online at Takealot or Loot.co.za. For more recipe ideas, follow @withlovefromthetwins and @LaagerRooibos on Facebook.
]]>The workshop, hosted in collaboration with StellCARE (formerly Child Welfare) and Renee Lighton of LightOn Education, welcomed teachers, volunteers and social auxiliary workers from the five StellCARE ECD centres for a morning of fun and learning through play.
Renee Lighton, educational consultant, author, speaker, life coach and founder of LightOn Education, explained that attendees benefitted from an environment of sharing and learning: “We shared practical ideas of how to play simple card games which are used to develop important skills. Through these games we are able to connect with presence, eye contact and touch, in a playful way, which sets up the environment for learning success. These skills lay the foundation for all future learning.”
Every attendee was provided with playing cards and a parenting booklet from Tea4Kidz that includes parenting tips, recipes, healthy lunchbox ideas and educational games. This instructional workshop forms part of a series of free workshops that Tea4Kidz and LightOn Education are running together.
“We want to thank Tea4Kidz and Renee Lighton for this learning opportunity,” said Charleen Meiring, Social Auxiliary Worker at the StellCARE ECD centres. “We learned so much and will gladly implement what was learned in our schools, as well as with the local community. The feedback from teachers was positive and they want to learn more so they can help their learners grow.”
At StellCARE’s five ECD centres there is a focus on the physical, mental, emotional social development of children. The social auxiliary worker has a monthly positive parenting programme, as well as trainings – such as these - to help develop teachers with new skills for the classroom.
“Part of our Tea4Kidz social mission is to provide the tools, products and information to empower parents, teachers, and caregivers,” explained Candice Sessions, Marketing Manager of Tea4Kidz. “This was another incredibly successful workshop which will result in more interactive learning sessions.”
Learning Through Play with Tea4Kidz and Card Games
Cards are inexpensive, small enough to fit into a handbag, picnic basket or rucksack, and are adaptable to suit any age group. Card games can be played and enjoyed as a family, in the classroom, with a group of friends, or on your own - you can even use the pack to build card houses! Visit www.more4momz.com to download printable Tea4Kidz character cards and card game ideas for hours of fun learning and playing.
If you would like to host an educational Tea4Kidz workshop in your area, please contact Candice@joekels.co.za.
Drinking too many sugary drinks is considered to be the leading cause of obesity in adolescents, especially among schoolboys. The study points out that the prevalence of obesity has doubled in teenage boys in the past six years, making them more prone to chronic lifestyle diseases such as diabetes.
According to nutritional experts, these beverages are loaded with empty calories and provide little or no essential nutrients. They are linked not only to weight gain, but also to poor health and tooth decay in children. The experts recommend water or herbal teas as a healthier alternative to fizzy drinks or sugar-filled fruit juices, with Rooibos tea topping the list.
Ernest du Toit, spokesperson of the SA Rooibos Council says Rooibos is as effective as water for hydrating the body and has additional health properties that water doesn’t have.
“Rooibos is affordable, tasty and amazingly beneficial for children. It is rich in antioxidants which help to protect healthy cells from damage, caused by free radicals and can reduce the risk of a variety of diseases, including cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Rooibos also prevents DNA damage, inflammation and is helpful in combating diabetes.
“Added to this, Rooibos contains no caffeine, fats or carbohydrates, is a natural immune-booster and relieves allergy symptoms, which are common in children,” remarks du Toit.
Sugary drinks have also been found to have an adverse effect on children’s brains. A study conducted by the University of California revealed that consuming excessive quantities of sugar-sweetened drinks can have a major impact on children’s brain function and impair their ability to concentrate and learn at school.
In contrast, Rooibos tea will keep your child’s mind sharp since it shields the brain from stress and it protects against a process known as lipid peridoxation (where free radicals damage brain cells and nerve tissues).
Du Toit adds that Rooibos is also incredibly nutrient-rich, “It is rich in Vitamin C, calcium, manganese and fluoride, helps to build strong bones and teeth and is safe to consume without limit.”
Credit: https://sarooibos.co.za/sugary-drinks-at-school-a-leading-cause-of-obesity-and-impaired-learning/]]>Parents are becoming increasingly concerned about the possible effects that colourants, preservatives and other additives found in a number of beverages could have on their children, such as behavioural changes and allergic reactions. Rooibos tea, which can be served hot or as an iced tea, is 100% natural and nutritious and is free of colourants, caffeine, sugars and preservatives.
Japanese research* and anecdotal evidence has shown that Rooibos tea can help to alleviate allergies and may even relieve asthma. In addition, because it is rich in antioxidants that fight destructive free radicals, Rooibos tea can help to strengthen the immune system which means fewer runny noses and colds. These antioxidants can also help to protect the liver, which allows the body to eliminate toxins.
Sleep is vital for children since it is during this time that growth hormones are released. The calmative properties in Rooibos can soothe and ease nervous tension, promoting a good night's sleep.
Credit: https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/329/44189.html
For more information: https://sarooibos.co.za/
]]>Rooibos tea is flavourful, and is a caffeine-free alternative to black and green tea, but what other things do we wish to know about this national treasure?
This Heritage Month, the South African Rooibos Council has embarked on a campaign to create greater public awareness of Rooibos - where it comes from, what makes it so unique and how to become a true connoisseur.
Every spring the Rooibos bush is covered in beautiful tiny yellow flowers, which after pollination, forms a seedpod with a single seed inside.
A study led by Dr Hanél Sadie-Van Gijsen, a senior researcher in the Division of Medical Physiology at Stellenbosch University, is investigating this hypothesis.
As a stem cell biologist, she chose to use adipose (fat) stem cells (ASCs) in her research. This is a relatively new method that will provide a much clearer picture of what happens to subcutaneous fat lying under the skin and visceral fat tissue that surrounds organs in the abdominal cavity, as obesity develops and progresses, and in turn, how these fat stem cells respond to green (unfermented) Rooibos.
She says the study is a first of its kind on the African continent and will generate hard scientific data on the possible effects of green Rooibos on the development of fat cells and the function of fat tissue. The project will also enable researchers to learn more about the effects of a high-sugar and high-fat diet on the body.
Given South Africa’s high obesity rates, with 70% of women and nearly 40% of men being overweight, the research project has garnered a lot of attention from the scientific community both locally and abroad.
Dr Sadie-Van Gijsensays obesity is among the most common causes of non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
“These debilitating illnesses already afflict millions of South Africans and it is therefore imperative that obesity is studied more closely. Many of the current weight-loss products on the market simply don’t work or have unpleasant side-effects, so we need to develop products that are more effective and tolerable.
“While we know that fat cells store excess calories that are released when the body needs it, we have a very limited understanding of the factors regulating the storing and burning of fat.”
She says for years, scientists have tried to find a way of blocking or suppressing the formation of new fat cells, but that the trouble with this is that fat tissue needs to perform its storage function and when no new fat cells are formed, the existing fat cells only become bigger and more dysfunctional, which triggers metabolic diseases such as diabetes and high cholesterol.
“The truth is that our bodies need fat in order to function optimally: it protects our organs, it keeps us warm and it stores excess calories, which otherwise would remain as glucose and fat in the bloodstream, resulting in diabetes, blocked arteries and fatty liver disease. Fat also forms part of our hormonal system, so we can’t do without it.
“We know that obesity not only means more fat, but it also fundamentally changes the way that fat and fat stem cells behave. Many obesity studies only focus on dysfunctional obese fat. However, the Rooibos study will help us to gain a better understanding of how healthy fat changes into dysfunctional fat and will hopefully bring us a step closer to solving the obesity conundrum.”
It’s Rooibos’ anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that she is particularly interested in as inflammation and oxidative stress are both hallmarks of dysfunctional fat, and are responsible for the development of many of the diseases associated with obesity.
She says fat stem cells act as ‘the enemy within’, by becoming active participants in fat tissue inflammation during prolonged obesity.
“By addressing the inflammation and oxidative stress within the fat tissue and fat stem cells, with a product such as Rooibos, we may be able to relieve whole-body inflammation and insulin resistance, while improving the storage function of fat, to help clear glucose and fat from the bloodstream. We also know that even after weight-loss, fat stem cells remain dysfunctional to a degree, and we hope that Rooibos might also be able to relieve this.”
The initial phases of the study will near completion towards the end of the year, and will be followed bya more in-depth analysis spanning 12 to24 months.
For more information on the health benefits of Rooibos, visit www.sarooibos.co.za
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Rooibos is one of South Africa’s most valued natural treasures, but besides being a healthy homegrown tea, how much do Mzansians really know about it?
This Heritage Month, the SA Rooibos Council (SARC) has embarked on a campaign to create greater public awareness of Rooibos – where it comes from, what makes it so unique and how to become a true connoisseur.
Here are a few facts about Rooibos which may surprise you:
Caption:
ROOIBOS IN FULL BLOOM: Each spring, Rooibos farmers are greeted by a field of yellow flowers growing on the bush, which carry the next generation of AspalathusLinearis – the botanical name for Rooibos.
Caption:
Collecting Rooibos seeds can be tricky as they spontaneously burst out when ripe. In the olden days Rooibos seeds were collected from anthills as ants harvested the seeds. These days, farmers collect the seeds by sifting the sand around the plants.
Caption:
Rooibos develops its characteristic aroma and red colour during the fermentation process where it is spread thinly on concrete drying yards to dry for up to 12 hours.
Caption:
An ‘extra fine’ Rooibos cutlends itself for use in confectionary and espressos.
Nicie Vorster, spokesperson for the SARCsays for generations, Rooibos tea has been a favourite among South Africans and remains an important economic resource for the country.
As a way to preserve the culture and heritage of Rooibos, he encourages everyone to become more intimately acquainted with Rooibos this Heritage Month by making a point ofvisitingthe Cederberg – the heartland of Rooibos – where it’s history and culture really come to life!
To learn more about Rooibos this Heritage Month, visit www.sarooibos.co.za
]]>
We have a few tips and tricks to help you throw a brilliantly bonkers Mad Hatter's tea party that your friends will never forget!
Follow these simple tips:
Decorations
Create a whimsical Mad Hatter theme by using items from your home that you can turn into props. Dig deep in your child's toy box and pull out those toy instruments, teddies and tea sets, even throw in your bedside lamp, a bird cage and mirrors. One aspect that we love about this theme - is that your tea sets, tablecloths, serviettes and silverware don't have to match! Have a few clocks or a deck of cards lying around? Add them to your table decor! Hang colourful paper lanterns, string up fairy lights and bunting banners. Surround your table with mismatched vintage chairs to complete the look.
Food
Once all your decorations are sorted, let's get started on the food for your Mad Hatter's tea party! Mini cupcakes work best when it comes to a high tea – your more dainty and delicious pastries are ideal! Fill large bowls and glass jars with jelly beans or a range of sweets that you know your friends will love. And don't forget - plenty of Tetley Tea for everyone to enjoy!
Costumes
Dress up as your favourite Alice in Wonderland character - the best dressed wins a prize! Have your friends arrive in top-hats, rabbit ears and feather boas. Think giant bow ties, blazers and long flowy dresses. If Alice is your inspiration, wear a baby blue dress, a white apron and black school like shoes!
Don't forget the games
What would a Mad Hatter party be without a hat game? The rules are simple -line all your guests up at the starting line and give each one a hat to throw. On the count of three, everyone must throw their hat at the same and as far as they can. Whoever throws their hat the furthest, wins a prize!
Come on and follow us down the rabbit hole for an afternoon full of fun!
]]>This heritage month, iconic South African Rooibos brand Laager is celebrating being a household name since 1945 with the launch of 2 new flavoured Rooibos-based products.
Generations have enjoyed the health benefits and natural taste of Laager Rooibos and consumers can now enjoy 2 fresh new flavours:
These 2 new flavours join the existing Green Rooibos favourites, pure Green Rooibos and a Citrus & Ginger flavoured option.
"The range now has a herbal flavour for every occasion and mood,"says Marketing Manager Candice Sessions."We've specifically looked at variants that have a positive effect on ones wellbeing and are excited about the delicious flavour combinations and health benefits that each product offers."
So which flavour is best for you?
The best way to enjoy your preferred flavour of Laager Rooibos is to add a teabag to a cup of freshly boiled water and let it brew for 5 minutes - then sit back, relax and savour the flavour.
Available in packs of 20 teabags in leading retail stores nationwide at a recommended selling price of R26.99.
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]]>First Gold Tea Bag Found
THE last thing Priscilla was expecting in her box of Laager Rooibos was a golden tea bag.
"I couldn't believe it. I thought it was a joke!" the 43-year-old nurse from Randpark Ridge says.
However, it was anything but a joke as the married mother of two children and avid Laager Rooibos consumer has discovered as she laughs to the bank with her R100,000 cash prize. Priscilla was the first lucky winner of the Laager Rooibos golden tea bag hunt competition being run in specially-marked promotional packs.
There are now four more golden tea bags in the brand's 80s packs with the promotion running until September.
Priscilla says she has been drinking Laager Rooibos for years.
"It's part and parcel of my home. We cannot do without it ... I didn't even know anything about the competition and just did the usual thing in buying my Laager Rooibos from my local grocery store," she says.
Priscilla's windfall comes after Durban-based Joekels Tea Packers master tea blender and director Jonathan Kelsey called the public to participate in the promotion via a YouTube video (https://youtu.be/5bldO2Rhvog). They can also follow the promotion; watch the winners being showcased as the gold tea bags are discovered and stand a chance to win additional prizes on the Laager Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LaagerRooibos).
"We have always believed our Laager Rooibos tastes like gold, so are rewarding our fans with some real gold," Kelsey says.
As for Priscilla - she has yet to decide how she will spend her prize money, but she is sure of one thing - she will never again view a box of Laager Rooibos in the same light.
]]>
We've shared many Rooibos recipes with our loyal fans, but there are always a few gems that make us smile.
Of all the Rooibos tea recipes that we've collected over the years, here are 2 that we keep going back to time and time again:
Rooibos Panna Cotta
This one is courtesy of YOU Magazine. We recommend serving them in nifty mason jars so that you can see the defined layers clearly. It will also mean less tussling to turn them out to serve. Chill these for at least four hours or ideally overnight for best results. You could even make some extra Laager Rooibos syrup and keep it in a jar to drizzle over vanilla ice cream.
Serves six people
Preparation: 5 min
Cooking: 10 min
Ingredients - For the Panna Cotta
15ml Powdered Gelatin
60ml Water
125ml White sugar
500ml Cream
310ml Double cream Greek yoghurt
5ml Vanilla essence
Ingredients - For the Rooibos Syrup:
180ml Sugar
60ml Honey
3 Laager Rooibos Teabags
250ml Water
Method
Coconut Rooibos Granola
With breakfast being the most important meal of the day, it's no surprise that we never grow tired of this crunchy granola. Serve with Greek yoghurt and berries, milk or even enjoy a handful on its own as a snack.
Ingredients
800g Raw Almonds, soaked overnight
250g Pumpkin seeds, soaked overnight
250ml Coconut flakes
4 Laager Rooibos teabags, leaves only (remove contents from teabags)
15ml Poppy seeds
60ml Coconut oil
120ml Honey
Method
Do any of your favourite recipes have Rooibos as a key ingredient? Please share them with us below; we'd love to try them!
Here’s what you’ll need:
It’s time to get painting!
Instructions:
Need a little inspiration for a design? Here are a few ideas that we love:
We love this one because it looks like overflowing milk. You could create this with any colour, all you need is a white teapot.
Freehand floral outlines add a trendy touch to a plain white teapot. With a few pops of colour you can really bring out the design and get in touch with your inner doodler.
A creative take on a paint splatter. This idea incorporates a few dots of white on top of the different shades of blue.
Another cute design is this one. It creates the look of bunting along the top of your teapot.
We grabbed all of these off Pinterest, but there are so many different designs to choose from.
If you’ve ever painted a teapot, we’d love to hear if you have any helpful hints or tips. Please share them below.
After all, looking at something gorgeous releases endorphins, which give you a boost of happiness, plus you’ll also be filled with pride at your crafting skills. A fancy tea cosy will brighten up your home, and your morning (afternoon, or evening!) tea.
Here’s what you need to create a beautiful, homemade tea cosy:
1) Sheet of paper or newspaper, A3 or larger 2 Semicircular pieces of medium-weight cotton fabric
2) Semi-circular pieces of light cotton fabric for the lining
3) A 4cm x 10cm Rectangular piece of cotton fabric for the loop
4) 2 Semi-circular pieces of polyester wadding for insulation
5) The teapot you plan to use your cosy on
6) A cup of Laager Rooibos tea to calm the mind before you get creative!
We’ve also decided to share a few helpful illustrations to guide you as well. Perhaps print them out and follow the steps and illustrations as you go!
http://image.guardian.co.uk/sys-files/Lifeandhealth/pdf/2010/06/23/teacosy.pdf
1) Cut out your pieces To make sure that your new cosy will fit, lay the teapot on its side on the paper. Draw a semicircle around the teapot, adding an extra 5cm on all of the sides to make the pattern for the body and lining. To cut the fabrics evenly, fold the semi-circle down the middle lengthwise and use the line as the cutting guide. Use this paper pattern to cut out the fabric for the body and lining. Cut the wadding 4cm smaller than the template all the way round.
2) Make the loop Fold a 1cm hem on each long side of the loop’s fabric piece and press it with an iron. Take your fabric and fold it down the middle lengthwise so that the two turned edges meet. Iron them flat and pin together. Stitch along the open side, as close to the edge as possible for a neat finish. Be sure to backstitch at the start to finish and fasten the seam. Stitch the same line along the opposite side to complete your loop.
3) Make the body Place the two body pieces of fabric together on their right sides. Fold the prepared loop in half and sandwich it between the two body pieces at the top in the middle, with the raw edges of the loop in line with the raw edges of the main body. Pin this in place. Pin the two body pieces together along the curved edge. Stitch them together with a 5mm seam allowance, catching the loop into the seam as you sew. Fold a 1cm hem over to the wrong side around the base and press it with an iron, don’t stitch this just yet. Turn the tea cosy right side out.
4) Make the lining Place the two lining pieces right sides together. Pin them in place along the curved edge. Stitch them together with a 5mm seam allowance and press. Fold a 2cm hem over to the wrong side around the base and press, but don’t stitch this just yet.
5) It’s show time! With wrong sides together, slot the lining inside the body. On each side, insert a cut piece of wadding between the main body and lining. Flatten this into place. Pin the base of the main body to the lining, making sure that the pressed hem is lined up and any pieces of wadding are tucked in. Stitch the base together the entire way around. Be sure to stitch as close to the edge of the hem as possible for the neatest overall finish.
That’s it! You’ve made your own tea cosy!
Now it’s time to enjoy a nice cup of Laager Rooibos, and admire your hard work.
Have you ever made your own tea cosy? Let us know how it turned out in the comments section below!
]]>Spring has sprung and this means glorious weather and more time outdoors around the braai with loved ones. In case you didn’t know, marinades are just as important to your braai arsenal as the meats, sides and salads.
When it comes to marinades it couldn’t be simpler. You really don’t need countless ingredients to create something great. We’ve tried our hand at creating several marinades for succulent meats, fresh fish and even tofu. These are a lot healthier than commercial varieties and faster to make than you think…
With a few simple ingredients (including our favourite Rooibos), there are some easy marinades you can whip up at home. Not only are they quick to prepare and delicious, they’re also easy on the pocket!
This one adds that instant wow-factor to your meat. As a marinade that works well with chicken, beef or pork, you should add this recipe to your file for its versatility and scrumptious Asian-flair. For the vegetarians out there, this one is also fantastic for marinating tofu!
Ingredients
1/4 Cup Laager Rooibos tea (brewed and hot)
1/2 Cup Soy Sauce
3 Tablespoons Sesame Oil
2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice (fresh or from the bottle)
2 Cloves Garlic (minced)
1 Tablespoon fresh Ginger (minced)
1 Small onion (finely chopped)
Method
Now, we’re not saying that you have to have a special occasion in order to throw a tea party. However, it’s always wonderful to celebrate something with a lovely afternoon event like a High Tea. Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, anniversary, engagement, bridal shower, or even a reunion with old friends, there’s always something to be celebrated… even if it’s just a love of tea.
Knowing the kinds of teas you’d like to serve will determine how you serve them and the kinds of complementary treats that will suit them best. Many teas require different preparations, so ensure you’re aware of this before you decide to serve them. Make sure you also have enough of the regular favourites, Rooibos and Black Tea!
Throwing a High Tea doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank with décor and special touches. You could embrace a beautiful raw wooden table at home and adorn it with a few fresh flowers from your garden placed in some pretty teapots. Or, you could use a pretty linen tablecloth and use lots of mason jars, hessian sacking, and candles for a more rustic feel. There are no rules to décor and you can make it any style you choose. It’s always best to create a look and feel that your guests will associate with you, that way; your tea time signature is something that screams you! You can choose your décor to a theme or keep it simple you could do minimal finishing touches. All that really matters is who you have with you and the special time you share with them.
Much like décor, the snacks and sweets that you serve at your gathering don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. If you’re worried about soaring costs, ask guests to bring a plate of their signature eats for everyone to enjoy. This also makes guests feel special as each person is involved and bound to get a compliment on their dish. If the kitchen isn’t your domain, there are many easy recipes that take almost no time at all! Don’t assume that your eats need to be the traditional cocktail sandwiches and scones with cream. You could venture a little outside the box and make grown up rice crispy treats with a white chocolate ganache, topped with Turkish delight bits. Donuts are also making waves as a trendy teatime treat, and many local bakeries make scrumptious exotic flavours that are sure to impress. On the savoury front there’s posh bruschetta’s, a fun crostini bar or even cheese boards with all the trimmings. The choice is yours and the sky is the limit.
]]>Joekels Tea Packers was formed by Joe Swart and Jonathan Kelsey in 1994. Durban local Swart and UK-born Kelsey lived a stone’s throw from each other in a Pinetown neighbourhood and later struck up a friendship on the rugby field. Although very different, they both believed that there was a gap in the market for an affordably priced, quality tea – and so the Phendula brand (which literally means “to turn around or change” in Zulu) was born. The name of the brand couldn’t have been more apt for Swart and Kelsey, who both left the security of corporate jobs to pursue the Phendula dream.
The planning began in earnest in Joe’s garage, until the pair were able to secure their first official work space at 13 Devro Park in Pinetown, where the 2 of them and 5 support staff started production of the first Phendula Tips tea bags. They initially used a cement mixer purchased from a friend to blend the tea, using an all-African selection of tea leaves to create a strong, rich flavour (which over time became the trademark of the Phendula brand). Friends and family were all roped in to promote and purchase the first packs of Phendula Tips, in order to start stimulating demand for the brand in the trade. Success did not come overnight, but Swart and Kelsey pushed forward, with the firm believe that “if we have a good product, then people have to buy it”.
Fast forward 21 years and 5 office premises, and Joekels Tea Packers is the 3rd largest tea manufacturer in South Africa, recipient of multiple prestigious awards, and producer of a wide range of tea brands that have become household names in South Africa – including Laager Rooibos, Laager Tea4Kidz, and Tetley. “It is a testament to our quality that we are still selling our very first product Phendula Tips, despite all the changes and growth that has happened over the last 21 years,” says Swart. The team still believes that Phendula Tips has huge growth potential as it holds true to the initial brand vision of “giving South Africans a premium tea at an economy price”.
While Phendula will always hold a special place in the Joekels history books, each brand in the Joekels stable has a special history and story of its own and each is a source of great pride for both Kelsey and Swart. As Kelsey notes, “each one of your kids has their own personality, but none is the favourite!”
In the 21 years since Joekels founders Joe Swart and Jonathan Kelsey brought Phendula to the market, the world has changed almost beyond recognition. In 1995 there was no internet, Google was still three years away from coming into being and South African “smartphones” were brick-size devices that allowed users to connect, without talking, via 30-character messages. Throughout these evolutions, Phendula has not only been a constant, but grown to be a firm KwaZulu-Natal favourite.
]]>Most black teas (like our famous Tetley blend) can be brewed between 88 to 100 degrees Celsius. When warming the water to this temperature, there will be small bubbles (between 4 mm and 8 mm) present, and a moderate to a large amount of steam to go with them.
However, if you’d like to enjoy your Black Tea in true English fashion, brew your tea at boiling point.
Rooibos Tea, much like Black Tea, is best brewed at higher temperatures – around 100 degrees Celsius. Brewing your Rooibos at boiling temperature is highly recommended to ensure
that you get all of the taste and benefits out of your cuppa – especially if it’s our famous Laager Rooibos Tea. This means, when you’re boiling your water, you will be able to see large bubbles and a moderate amount of steam.
Now that you know the secret to brewing the perfect cup of tea, tell us, which is your favourite?
]]>There’s a reason they call us the tea masters. With more than 20 years of experience as tea suppliers, we blend and distribute some of South Africa’s most popular household tea brands. But that’s just one of the reasons why you should choose Joekels Tea Packers. Take a look at a few more here.
In a world filled with people that have unique tastes and needs, it’s good to know that whatever your preference, we’ll help you get brewing! Our Joekels range of teas includes black tea blends, Rooibos tea, Green Rooibos, flavoured Rooibos, Rooibos for Kids, and Rooibos Cappuccino’s, so we’ve got your tea time sorted! Our brands include Tetley Premium Black Tea, the Laager Rooibos range, Tea4Kidz, Tea Time Black Tea and Rooibos, Phendula Tips, Teeco, and Southall’s Rooibos.
Before our tea reaches you, it goes through a number of steps to ensure that the product you receive is top quality. When it comes to the production of our Rooibos teas, our crop to cup process begins in Summer, when our specially prepared seedling beds are filled with Rooibos seeds. These then sprout into plants which are harvested, then fermented and finally sorted, graded and packaged for your enjoyment. The entire process is overseen by tea experts who pride themselves on ensuring that your next cup of tea is the best yet! This includes Joekels co-founder and master tea blender, Jonathan Kelsey. He is known as the man with Africa’s most expensive tongue, having insured his tongue and taste buds for R5 million.
For many, tea time is a special part of the day. A cup of tea can provide a calming relief or a much-needed quiet moment during a hectic day. Who better to trust with this great escape than the third largest tea manufacturer in South Africa? Our company has made its’ mark in the tea industry – receiving various awards and accreditations along the way. In 2012, we became the only tea producers in South Africa to receive the Global Food Safety Certification FSSC22000. We were also awarded ‘Big Brand of the Year’ by the Shoprite Group in 2015. This means you can rest assured knowing that your great tea escape comes from professionals who are passionate about tea.
As the saying goes, “you are the company you keep”, and here at Joekels we pride ourselves on this. We pack around 95% of all private label tea products in South Africa.
Some of the popular retailers we manufacture and package tea for include Shoprite, Checkers, USave, Spar, Pick n Pay, OK and Boxer.
At Joekels, we are community-focused. We believe in providing a product that all tea-lovers can enjoy. Which is why we have joined the online revolution, so that you are able to share your stories and feedback on your Joekels experience. Together with our new corporate Joekels website, we have the Laager Facebook Page and More4Momz website which allows the community at large to engage with us. So whatever your tea requirements, why not reach for a Joekels branded tea pack when brewing your next cuppa? It will be your best cup of tea yet!
]]>Even before the modern world became aware of the delicious and nutritious drink, locals in South Africa used it for a multitude of purposes. Take a look at where Rooibos- journey began.
Centuries before the British came to South Africa, the Khoisan used to gather Rooibos leaves from the Aspalathus Linearis shrub. They used the leaves to help cure many ailments by making herbal medicines.
Rooibos was almost lost to the world when the Khoisan tribes began to dwindle. Luckily in 1772, a botanist by the name of Carl Humberg rediscovered the Rooibos plant and helped to create interest in the tea leaves. In those days, the locals took donkeys into the high Cederberg mountains to pick the leaves. They would wrap the leaves in hessian cloth and head back down to trade the leaves for household goods.
In 1904, Benjamin Ginsberg, a Russian immigrant began to market Rooibos as an herbal alternative to tea - calling it ''Mountain Tea''. Ginsberg knew a lot about Chinese and Indian teas, which was incredibly helpful when he set up the first Rooibos field to be successfully cultivated. When he immigrated, his son took over the farming of Rooibos. And his grandson went on to introduced Rooibos to various international markets, where it was a hit. Today, many of the Ginsberg's processes that were put in place are still being used.
During World War II, it became almost impossible to import teas from Asian countries. So, people turned to Africa as an alternative, which led to an increase in the demand for Rooibos. However, the plant and its seeds were hard to come by, which made the leaves pricey and difficult to buy.
When a South African woman, Annique Theron, published a book on the health benefits of Rooibos in the 1960s, it caused a huge amount of academic interest in the tea. Loads of studies were conducted, where the antioxidant qualities and the many health advantages of Rooibos were discovered - making the popularity of the tea soar almost overnight.
Over the past few decades, demand for Rooibos has increased by 50 percent. Despite being more popular in Africa, Asia and Europe, Rooibos is gaining popularity in the USA and beyond. Recently, many people have begun to shift their mindset on food and drink, and adopt a more health conscious way of life. Thanks to its caffeine-free and high tannin content, Rooibos ''popularity continues to grow " particularly amongst health enthusiasts. And the more we discover about the health benefits of Rooibos, the more the demand for it grows.
]]>For more information on the benefits of Rooibos, visit the South African Rooibos Council’s website at www.sarooibos.org.za
]]>The antioxidant-rich Rooibos tea is best-known for its health benefits, but according to South Africa's top gardening gurus, it's also a must for every garden.
Margaret Roberts, a prominent figure in the world of gardening and natural health has been using Rooibos for composting ever since she can remember. She says Rooibos makes a fantastic natural fertilizer as it contains nutrients and trace minerals beneficial to plant growth.
"Instead of throwing away your used Rooibos tea leaves, use it along with other vegetable and fruit peelings to make a balanced compost mix. Our thriving Herbal Centre near Hartbeespoort dam keeps compost heaps going in much the same way with Rooibos tea being among the critical compostable materials. We use it on all our vegetables and fruits in the huge Herbal Centre gardens that supply our restaurant, and the produce is of excellent quality," she says.
Roberts' herbal garden is considered to be one of SA's top ten gardens and is totally dedicated to organic farming.
Rooibos tea leaves also enrich the soil by increasing the nitrogen levels, whilst giving earthworms something nice to munch on.
Tanya Visser, Gardening Guru, TV personality and editor of The Gardener and Die Tuinier magazines, as well as associated editor on the Grow to Eat magazine does just that. She uses her Rooibos tea leaves to feed the worms in her worm farm once she's done with them.
"I actually buy the Rooibos tea mulch for my garden. I love the courser grain of it, the smell and feel of it is wonderful too and it keeps the goggos away from my plants," says Visser.
Most gardeners prefer Rooibos mulch to bark mulch, as it's extremely gentle on the hands - you don't even need to wear gloves to lay it - and since it's easier to control the flow, it pours beautifully. Rooibos mulch also forms a crusty layer on the soil after a few waterings. This layer reduces water loss through evaporation and is thus ideal for reducing stress on young transplants and contributes to considerable water saving in gardens and pot plants. It's also ideal for fertilizing vegetable planters and looks beautiful between pavers and dainty flowers.
Another of SA's favourite gardeners, JJ van Rensburg is an equally big fan of Rooibos. "One of the best kept secrets is to break open steeped tea bags and to sprinkle the tea leaves around the plants to deter snails and other unwanted pests - it's a very effective biological pest deterrent."
Van Rensburg adds that contrary to the belief that all tea makes the soil acidic, Rooibos doesn't. The efficient microbes in the soil (the good bugs) actually thrive on Rooibos tea leaves.
"The tea also reduces germination of weeds through the formation of an insulating layer above the soil, thus facilitating cleaner seedbeds and pot plants. Rooibos is also low in tannins and is beneficial to both plant and root development. Mixed with potting soil, it provides an excellent growing medium.
"A soil rich in organic compounds, such as Rooibos, will give any gardener a healthy and generous crop that will make them proud," says van Rensburg.
To ensure a bountiful bloom next spring, the experts suggest getting started in autumn already, which is considered the second most important gardening season. It's vital that gardens are prepared and ready for the cold, winter months that lie ahead.
For those eager to explore the benefits of using Rooibos tea in their gardens, try one or more of these DIY Rooibos gardening tips and tricks prepared by the Rooibos Council:
Credit: https://sarooibos.co.za/gardening-gurus-share-why-rooibos-tea-is-a-must-for-the-garden/
]]>Speaking of their partnership with Laager, Tebo states, “Working with Laager Rooibos has been amazing because the brand matches our values of family and honouring tradition and where you’ve come from. Plus we really love drinking Laager Rooibos!” Commenting on the endorsement, Joekels Marketing Manager Candice Sessions says, “As a brand we believe in partnering with people who share our vision of putting people first and Lebo and Tebo really do embody the spirit of family, giving, and togetherness. They are the perfect fit for our brand as they live our core proposition and are amazing at what they do.” Look out for their delicious Laager Rooibos recipes and other exciting developments on @withlovefromthetwins, as well as the With love from the Twins and Laager Rooibos facebook pages.
Rooibos, in particular, offers great value for money, given its abundance of antioxidants and health- promoting compounds, which protect against chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. Rooibos is naturally sweet and flavourful because it's low in tannins, which are responsible for the bitter taste in other teas. Also, Rooibos has not been affected by the 'sugar tax'.
Tea generally weathers the storm well in tough economic times, and even when comparing flavoured Rooibos tea for kids to other juices for children, there is a price saving of up to R9.30 per serving.
That makes Rooibos, which can be enjoyed hot or cold, an all-round favourite.
No wonder tea is the second most highly consumed beverage in the world, after tap water.
]]>Durban, South Africa
-->On 6 September, Tea4Kidz joined forces with the Western Cape Department of Education and learning specialist Renee Lighton from LightOn Education, in sponsoring a workshop targeted at parents and teachers from the Western Cape community.
"Both home and school play equal roles in early childhood development and the workshop highlighted the importance of teachers and parents supporting each other to educate and develop future generations," explains Candice Sessions Marketing Manager of Tea4Kidz. "Our Tea4Kidz social mission is to provide tools, products and information that enlightens and aids parents and teachers, empowering them to make the right choices for the children in their care."
The workshop was attended by over 150 parents and teachers from the local community who spent an informative and interactive afternoon learning new skills to help children grow and learn through play. Each person was provided with a parenting booklet from Tea4Kidz that included parenting tips, recipes, healthy lunchbox ideas and educational games. This is the first in a series of workshops that Tea4Kidz and LightOn Education will be running.
"The role of workshops like these is to ignite conversations and interactions. Through sharing, we develop an "CAN" attitude no matter the circumstances and it is this connection and love of learning through play that is sustained and lifelong,"states Renee Light on founder of Light On Education.
Tea4Kidz is a naturally caffeine-free and sugar-free range of Rooibos teas, designed specifically with kids in mind.
If you would like to host a Tea4Kidz parent and teacher workshop in your area, please contact Candice@joekels.co.za.
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