5 ways to enjoy pap this December

By Lesego Madisa, 28 November 2025

There’s nothing more comforting, or proudly South African, than a steaming bowl of pap. Iwisa No.1 maize meal has been a trusted favourite for generations. Every moment of December – from braais to easy weeknight dinners – tastes like home with Iwisa.

Advertising promotion

Iwisa No.1 isn’t just a side dish; it’s the heart of many South African meals. From traditional favourites to modern takes, this versatile maize meal provides the perfect base for everything from hearty breakfasts to indulgent desserts. With these recipes, you can celebrate the taste of home while exploring new flavours and textures. No matter the occasion, Iwisa No.1 makes every plate comforting, wholesome and delicious.

1. Umvubo/phuthu

Umvubo (or phuthu) is crumbly, dry pap that’s perfect with iBhisto, chakalaka or amasi. Its light texture makes it an ideal base for hearty meals, giving every bite that warm, home-cooked feel.

Umvubo-puthu
umvubo/phuthu recipe

2. Smooth-and-creamy pap

Perfect with amasi, milk or brothy stews, smooth and creamy pap has a velvety texture that makes it ideal for breakfast or dinner. It brings warmth and comfort to every bite, while pairing beautifully with both sweet and savoury accompaniments.

Smooth-and-creamy-pap
smooth and creamy pap recipe

3. Pap and eggs

A true South African classic, pap and eggs is simple, affordable and satisfying. This humble combo proves that comfort and flavour don’t have to come at a high cost.

Pap and eggs
pap and eggs recipe

4. White chocolate-and-tonka bean pap

For a decadent twist, try turning pap into a dessert with white chocolate and tonka bean. Its naturally creamy texture pairs beautifully with the sweet, aromatic flavours, creating an indulgent treat that puts a twist on a pantry staple.

White-chocolate-and-tonka-bean-pap
white chocolate and tonka bean pap recipe

5. Pap fries with Boerenkaas custard

Think of these as South Africa’s take on polenta fries. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, these loaded pap fries are topped with a rich Boerenkaas custard and smoky charred corn salsa. It’s a playful, flavour-packed twist on a classic staple that's perfect for sharing at a braai or get-together.

Loaded pap fries with Boerenkaas custard and charred corn salsa
Pap fries with Boerenkaas custard recipe

From traditional to contemporary, Iwisa No.1 maize meal brings warmth, comfort and unmistakably South African flavour to every plate.

Shop at Woolworths

Lesego Madisa

Article by Lesego Madisa

TASTE's commercial content producer loves thrifty recipes, fridge foraging and never says "no" to cake. When she's not flipping through the pages of food mags and cookbooks, she's happily baking and knitting in her tiny apartment.
View all articles
Load more

Comments