‘Things to Do Before the Big Feast’

Christmas in South Africa

Hey there, my fabulous skinny readers! How are we all doing? Feeling festive yet? I sure hope so because I’m doing absolutely marvelous, just in case you were wondering. Welcome back to another edition of the Skinny Chef Weekly Blog, your one-stop guide to all things food, fun, and festive!

Can you believe it? Three weeks until Christmas! I’m buzzing with excitement—it’s my favorite time of year. Time really does fly, doesn’t it?

Here’s the thing, though—before I moved to South Africa, Christmas didn’t hold the same sparkle for me. Back in England, it was all gloomy skies and frigid temps, which made it hard to feel the holiday joy. On top of that, I always missed my immediate family. But then, in December 2009, my life changed forever when I arrived in sunny South Africa.

Imagine this: warm summer breezes, the sun shining bright enough to blind you, and waves crashing on the shore as you sip a chilled drink. THAT is what a South African Christmas feels like. No snow, no gray skies—just sunshine, laughter, and love. And guess what? I haven’t left since! I can now proudly say: “Local is lekker!”

With its incredible mix of traditions, cultures, and festivities, South Africa turns Christmas into a holiday like no other. So, at the suggestion of my brilliant girlfriend, Shadre, this week’s blog is all about getting ready for the big day. Whether you’re a planner extraordinaire or a last-minute dash-er, I’ve got tips to make sure your Christmas is pure magic.

Skinny Reader Check-In!

Be honest:

• Are you one of those super-organized people who have it all sorted in advance?

• Or are you more of a Christmas Eve shopping spree kinda person?

• Is your catering plan set? Who’s cooking? And whose house is hosting the madness this year?

Whatever your style, whether you’re hosting a showstopping feast or letting someone else take the reins, I’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and tackle this festive prep together. Oh, and before I forget—Happy Black Friday, skinny readers! Now’s the perfect time to snag some deals and tick off those gift lists!

The Basics – Let’s Get Festive!

Here’s how to get ahead and avoid the dreaded holiday scramble:

Get Those Gifts and Cards Ready

Nothing beats the feeling of sending love to your family and friends! Get your cards, letters, and gifts sent early so they arrive on time. It’s also the perfect chance to let your loved ones know what you’ve been up to this year.

Deck the Halls

Whether you’re grabbing a fresh tree from the local farm or dusting off last year’s artificial one, don’t wait! Setting up your tree early gets you into the holiday spirit. And trust me, start untangling those lights now—you’ll thank me later.

1. Stock Up on Wrapping Supplies (and Batteries!)

   
   

   Running out of tape or batteries on Christmas morning is a disaster you don’t need. Load up on wrapping paper, ribbons, gift bags, boxes, and, of course, those AA or AAA batteries. Always have extras—you never know when you’ll need them!

2. Finish Your Shopping EarlyIf kids (or adults!) have their hearts set on something special, don’t wait. Gifts sell out fast, and shipping delays are no fun. Wrap them as soon as they arrive and find a super-secret hiding spot to keep them safe.

3. Reconnect With Old FriendsThe holidays are the perfect time to rekindle connections. Send that text, make that call, and set up a coffee date with an old friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with.

Skip the Stress—Dine Out This Christmas

Not feeling the whole cooking and cleaning thing this year? Treat yourself and your family to a stress-free festive feast at one of these fabulous spots around Johannesburg:

Southern Sun Hotels

Enjoy traditional Christmas menus with all the trimmings. Click here to explore and book your table.

Billy G at Gold Reef City

Feast on their epic Christmas buffet extravaganza. Prices range from R100 for little ones to R450 for adults. Click here for details.

Bakubung Bush Lodge

Celebrate with a six-course buffet lunch at Marula Grill for R695 per adult. Nothing beats the bushveld vibes!

The Maslow Sandton

Dress to impress and indulge in an elegant buffet at R720 per adult. Kids under three eat free—what a deal!

Emperors Palace

Treat yourself like royalty with a festive feast at Rosetta’s. Multiple dining slots available—book now!

Indaba Hotel

Enjoy traditional lunches or sing-along Christmas brunches complete with festive goodies.

Hosting at Home? Let’s Do This!

If you’re sticking with tradition and hosting a family feast at home, here are my tips:

Plan Early!

Start with the menu. Thinking of a spit braai? Book that lamb yesterday, because everyone in Joburg seems to want one for Christmas! Don’t let last-minute stress ruin your vibe.

Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

Don’t be a holiday martyr. Share the load! From salads to desserts, let everyone bring something to the table. Literally.Every year, I promise myself: “I’m NOT working this Christmas!” And yet, I always end up in the kitchen. The chef life, I suppose!

A Little Reflection

Last Christmas was extra special—my girlfriend, Shadre, met my family for the first time, and she absolutely crushed it. This year, I’ll be spending Christmas with her family. Fingers crossed the shoe fits there too!

Before I sign off, I have a little something special for you. Here’s a recipe from my book, The Skinny Chef Diaries, dedicated to my love, Shadre Leonard. It’s my healthy twist on a South African classic—Milk Tart. Sweet, light, and oh-so-delicious!

Gluten Free Milk Tart

So, after so many failed attempts at dating, I have recently got back onto the wagon. Shadre Leonard is her name. She is a breath of fresh air, my muse. Not too sure if it will go the distance, but I have a new spring in my step. Something sweet is needed to finish a long journey. 

The traditional milk tart is omnipresent in South Africa. It appears in every bakery and supermarket and has most certainly featured on every food blog. This recipe is a healthier take on the classic, without any crust, making it gluten-free.

Ingredients

• ½ cup xylitol (sugar substitute) 

• 2 large eggs, separated 

• ½ cup gluten-free cake flour mix 

• ½ teaspoon baking powder 

• 2 cups almond milk or coconut milk 

• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 

• Pinch of cinnamon Merry Christmas Planning!

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. 

2. Cream together the xylitol and egg yolks. 

3. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, milk and vanilla and mix until well combined. 

4. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, and fold them into the mixture. 

5. Grease a round ovenproof dish or cake tin. Pour mixture into the tin. Sprinkle cinnamon on top of the tart and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until set. 

6. Remove from oven and allow to cool. The milk tart should become completely firm. Slice and serve.

Let’s make this holiday season the best one yet, skinny readers! Enjoy the sunshine, the good food, and the love that fills the air here in beautiful South Africa. Stay safe, stay healthy, and of course, stay skinny! Same time, same place next week.