food, wine and culture
South African cuisine is historically influenced by the discovery of the South East India Spice Route. Malay slaves were brought back to South Africa and the spices they cooked with created an indigenous cuisine, like hot curries tempered with sweet relishes. Other influences have also made their mark on South Africa - the French for their wines - and the Dutch and Germans brought their baking skills; English meat pies are still a staple. In more recent years, South Africa has become one of the gourmet centers of the world.