Where South Africans Abroad Buy Pap: A Quest for Home

Living abroad, especially when it comes to ingredients from your home country, can be a challenge. For many South Africans, one of the most cherished ingredients is pap. Pap, a dish made from maizemeal, is a staple in South African cuisine, often served with boerewors (South African sausages) or other protein sources. However, finding it in the new country can be a daunting task.

My Personal Experience: Thornhill, Canada

While living alone in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada, I recently had the opportunity to purchase pap. After moving to this new environment, I had to learn where to find my favorite dishes, including pap.

Initially, it was challenging to find pap locally. I had to search online for retailers that stocked it. Eventually, I discovered Eet Sum More, a convenient store in Thornhill, which offers a 1 kg bag of pap. Another store, Sedo Snax, also stocks pap, making it easier for me to get my hands on this beloved ingredient.

The excitement of finding pap locally was immense, and it was a walk of about 300 meters to my nearest store, Eet Sum More. The freshness of being able to taste a piece of home was truly soul-warming. The joy of cooking pap on a stove, rather than over an open fire, added a special touch to my cooking experience.

The second photo captures my enthusiastic trek through the snow in pursuit of this cherished ingredient, a journey that made the taste of home even more special.

Availability in the Middle East

The availability of pap varies depending on the region. In countries like Qatar in the Middle East, it can be found from time to time in the bigger supermarkets and hypermarkets. However, it is not always a guarantee that you will be able to find it. Therefore, being vigilant and making inquiries about the stock is essential.

Experience in the UK

Back in the United Kingdom, where I previously resided, I could easily get pap at Tesco, one of the biggest supermarket chains. However, as time passed, the availability of natural, non-modified pap became harder to find. Today, I source it from my local health store. The yellow variety I get there may not be Iwisa, but it is labeled as Polenta and tastes similar to pap. It's a comforting substitute when boerewors is cooked on the side, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

In conclusion, while living abroad, it's important to adapt to local resources and explore different options for your favorite ingredients. With a bit of effort and patience, finding and preparing the dishes you love, such as pap, can bring a sense of home to a new environment.