Peanutbutter And Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 375ml cake flour
• 5ml bicarbonate of soda
• 1ml salt
• 125g butter
• 250ml light brown sugar
• 1 extra-large egg
• 5ml vanilla essence
• 250ml smooth peanut butter
• 250ml coarsely chopped peanuts
• 275g milk chocolate, broken into pieces

Directions

Cream together the butter and sugar until its light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla essence, then add the peanut butter and mix well. Next, add the dry ingredients and peanuts and mix. Wrap the dough in clingfilm and chill for 2 hours.

Preheat an oven to 180°C and line two baking sheets with baking paper and grease. Break off about 30ml of the dough, roll it into a ball, press a piece of chocolate in its centre and cover with dough. Repeat with all the dough.

Arrange the dough on the baking sheet with enough space to allow for the cookies’ spread. Bake for about 16 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Cool and serve.

Candy Miellies (Yes really!)

• 1 stick butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 6 Miellies

Directions

In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat butter and sugar together, then add vanilla. Add almond flour and salt and beat until combined. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. On plastic wrap, form each piece into a log. Refrigerate until solid, 2 hours.

When cookie dough is well chilled, push corn into cookie dough in rows. Refrigerate until ready to serve, at least 1 hour. 

Rainbow Pizzas

• 2 plain pizza bases
• 6 tbsp passata
• 400g mixed red and yellow tomatoes, sliced
• 75g sprouting broccoli, stems finely sliced
• 8 green olives, pitted and halved (optional)
• 150g mozzarella balls
• 2 tbsp fresh pesto
• handful fresh basil leaves to serve

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Put each pizza base on a baking sheet and spread each with half of the passata. Arrange the tomatoes on the top in rings or wedges of colour, and add the broccoli and olives. Dot the pizza with the mozzarella balls then drizzle 1 tbsp pesto over each.

Bake for 15-20mins or until the top is bubbling and just starting to brown. Scatter over the fresh basil leaves before serving.

Earth Cookies

• 1 bag sugar cookie mix
• 1 stick butter, softened
• Blue food colouring
• Green food colouring

Directions

Preheat oven to 375º and line two baking sheets with parchment. Prepare sugar cookie mix according to package directions. Place about 1/4 of dough in one bowl and dye green using green food coloring until desired color is reached. Dye remaining dough blue until desired color is reached. 

Pull out pieces from each colour and start shaping into a ball, patching if necessary to create an Earth effect.

Place cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake 8 to 9 minutes, or until edges are set (try to prevent browning).

Homemade Cake Pops

• 175g butter
• 100g caster sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 100g self-raising flour
• 150g icing sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp milk
• 200g white chocolate, melted, to dip
• sprinkles, to dip

Directions

Preheat an oven to 190°C and prepare a 20cm cake tin by greasing and lining its base. Place 100g butter, the caster sugar and vanilla extract into a bowl and beat well to a creamy consistency. Slowly beat the eggs in, one by one, then fold in the flour and mix well. Pour into the cake tin and bake for about 20mins until risen and golden brown. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the buttercream by beating the remaining butter and icing sugar together in a mixing bowl then add the vanilla extract and milk, and beat again.

Once the cake is cooled, crumble it into large crumbs and stir in the buttercream. Take chunks of the cake mixture, roll them into balls, push a lollipop stick into each and transfer to a lined tray or plate. Refiregate for an hour.

Melt the chocolate using a microwave. Dip the individual balls into the melted chocolate and sprinkles. Refigerate 20mins before serving.

At Core Catering Supplies, our commitment goes beyond supplying world-class hospitality products. It’s rooted in people, partnerships, and the places we serve. Across the country, our corporate-owned and franchise stores continue to invest in initiatives that uplift communities, support talent development, and promote wellness through sport and shared experiences. Here’s a look at some recent efforts that reflect the Core difference.

Head Office Leads the Way

Our Woodstock branch, home to Core Holdings’ Head Office, kicked off 2025 with purpose. During the Cape Town Cycle Tour, Africa’s biggest timed cycling event, our MD and Woodstock GM set up a water and support station in Noordhoek—offering essential refreshments like water and bananas to riders. More than just a race, the Cycle Tour celebrates health, sustainability, and community. Supporting events like this aligns with our brand’s energy, drive, and people-first values.

We also proudly sponsored new team shirts for the Enable Centre, a Cape Town-based rehabilitation facility offering physical and cognitive therapy to individuals with neurological and orthopedic conditions. Their message of thanks said it best:

“Your generosity helps us move, play, and make a difference at the Enable Centre every day.”

At Core, we know that dignity in care begins with feeling supported—sometimes, even a uniform can make all the difference.

Franchise Highlights

The Hermanus franchise once again supported the “Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year” competition for high school learners. Organised by Kevin and Sumien Warwick, the competition gives students a platform to showcase their skills by reimagining family favourites. Our Hermanus team, alongside, Core Franchise and preferred suppliers, provided tools and prizes—reaffirming Core’s long-standing commitment to hospitality education.

Further up the coast, our Tableview & West Coast franchise sponsored the Mykonos Golf Day, a lively gathering of regional businesses and hospitality professionals. With support from LiQ-Core – featuring tastings from Wilderer Distillery and more, the event delivered great conversations, delicious drinks, and valuable industry networking.

The Core Culture of Community

Whether corporate-owned or franchise-run, every Core store is encouraged to invest in meaningful local partnerships. From sports events to chef schools, wellness programmes to charitable giving , we’re committed to backing causes that reflect our shared brand values: Integrity, Trust, Service, Accountability, Value, Energy, and Solutions (IT SAVES)

We also recognise that sponsorships and support are about relationships. They build pride, fuel connection, and strengthen our industry one experience at a time.

Let’s Do More, Together

If you’re part of an initiative that aligns with Core’s hospitality mission—whether it’s education, wellness, sustainability, or community upliftment—we’d love to hear from you. Giving back is part of who we are.

Because at Core, it’s not just about supply—it’s about support.
Enjoy the Difference.

At Core Catering Supplies, we believe every choice matters—especially when it comes to sustainability.  As an importer and distributor in the hospitality supply industry, we are fully aware that our business model isn’t inherently eco-friendly. That’s why we take our responsibility seriously, choosing to work with brands that align with our values and backing that up with everyday efforts at branch level to reduce our footprint—through recycling packaging materials, consolidating deliveries, and streamlining operations wherever possible.  

This Earth Day, we’re highlighting some of our exclusive brand partners who are leading the way in sustainable design and production—brands that don’t just manufacture for the moment, but for the future.  

Steelite International is a recognised leader in sustainable ceramic tableware. Manufactured in the UK, their products are ISO 14001 certified and designed to last—complete with a lifetime edge-chip warranty. Their environmental initiatives focus on reducing water, energy, and raw material usage across all stages of production.  

HEPP, one of Germany’s most respected names in cutlery, combines precision manufacturing with sustainability commitments that include refurbishment services, local sourcing, and global standards like ISO 14001 and the UN Global Compact. Products are designed for longevity in even the most high-end hospitality environments.  

Leerdam Crisal Glass—makers of ONIS and Royal Leerdam glassware—have taken bold steps with their ESG Sustainability Update, aligning their production with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With centuries of heritage, their modern glassware is both stylish and increasingly efficient to produce.  

Libbey Glassware, with a legacy spanning over 200 years, is designed for durability and volume, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The brand also champions recyclable packaging and environmentally-conscious operations that support circular economy principles.  

APS Buffetware is known for durable, long-lasting buffet displays. Manufactured in Germany, APS uses recycled materials as well as strong materials like polycarbonate and stainless steel, and their modular food service systems help reduce overproduction and improve presentation efficiency.  

Core’s product philosophy is simple: high quality and longevity equals less waste. Whether it’s vitrified crockery, reinforced glassware, or sustainable buffetware, our brand portfolio is intentionally curated to provide lasting value—reducing the frequency of replacements and the environmental impact of operations. Our digital catalogue and QR-access tools also help reduce the need for printed materials across the network. 

This Earth Day, we acknowledge the challenges of our industry, but remain committed to playing our part in a more responsible and sustainable hospitality future. Through the brands we champion, the partners we trust, and the practices we adopt, we strive to do better—for our clients and the planet.  

Visit a Core store or explore our online platform to learn more about the brands helping lead the way in sustainable hospitality.  

#EarthDay2025 #CoreCateringSupplies  #SustainableHospitality #GreenSupplies #HospitalityIndustry #Steelite #Crockery #HEPP #Cutlery #ONIS #Libbey #Glassware #APS #Buffetware #EnjoytheDifference #EcoFriendlyDining #HORECA #HospitalityWithPurpose

Few things bring people together quite like the smell of fresh fish sizzling over open flames. The art of the fish braai—a uniquely South African take on grilling—is not just a cooking method but a culinary experience. Whether you’re running a boutique guest lodge, a bustling beachside bistro, or simply braaing at home, knowing how to prepare and serve fish to perfection is essential. Here’s how you can up your fish braai game—featuring expert tips, key tools, and product recommendations.

The Beauty of Braaied Fish

From the firm, flaky flesh of dorado to the bold, oily richness of snoek, fish brings texture, flavour, and versatility to the table. Unlike red meats, fish demands delicacy. It cooks quickly, and even minor mistakes can lead to dryness or breakage. But with the right techniques and tools, your guests will remember your fish dishes long after their plates are cleared.

Pro Tip #1: Choose the Right Fish

Not all fish are created equal when it comes to braaing. Here are some top choices:

• Dorado (mahi-mahi) – Great for fillets, dorado holds its shape and soaks up marinades beautifully.
• Snoek – A South African favourite. Best served basted with apricot glaze or traditional sweet-and-sour sauces.
• Yellowtail – Meaty and perfect for grilling whole or in thick steaks.
• Hake – Delicate and mild, ideal for wrapped or pan-based braais.

For consistency and sustainability, source your seafood from trusted suppliers—quality makes all the difference when it hits the flames.

Pro Tip #2: Master the Marinade

Hospitality chefs know that seasoning is everything. Create house marinades that complement the fish’s natural flavours. A mix of lemon juice, garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, and a dash of chilli works wonders for dorado or yellowtail. For snoek, traditional South African apricot jam blends beautifully with vinegar and black pepper.

Insider tip: marinate for 30 minutes to an hour—no more, or the acids may start “cooking” the fish before it hits the grill.

Pro Tip #3: Equipment Matters

Your fish braai is only as good as your gear. At Core Catering Supplies, you’ll find a range of commercial-grade braais, fish grids, and heat-resistant utensils built for high-volume service. Look out for:

• Stainless-steel fish grids – Keeps fillets intact and evenly cooked.
• Adjustable braai stands – Let you control heat exposure.
• Smoker boxes – Add a wood-fired aroma guests will rave about.

With professional catering tools, your braai setup becomes more efficient and guest-ready.

Pro Tip #4: Perfect the Cook

Grill fish skin-side down first—it helps hold the fillet together and adds a delicious crisp. Don’t over-flip. Let the fish cook most of the way on one side before gently turning. For whole fish, slice a few incisions along the sides to ensure even heat penetration.

Use your thermometer—an internal temp of 63°C ensures it’s cooked through but still moist.

Pro Tip #5: Presentation Seals the Deal

Serve grilled fish with grilled lemon wedges, herb butters, and seasonal sides. For an upscale touch, plate it on wooden boards or cast iron pans for that rustic-meets-luxury feel. Use garnishes like fresh dill, edible flowers, or pickled onions for vibrant colour.

Beyond the Grill: Boosting Guest Experience

Fish braais can elevate themed nights, buffet spreads, or plated menus. Consider offering live braai stations where chefs interact with guests—this adds entertainment value and showcases culinary flair. With the right setup from Core Catering Supplies, your outdoor cooking space becomes an extension of your kitchen’s excellence.

In the hospitality game, details matter. Mastering the fish braai is a skill that blends tradition, technique, and presentation—qualities that set great venues apart. With the right know-how, premium equipment from CoreCateringSupplies, and a dash of South African spirit, you can transform a simple fish dish into a signature experience.

Libbey Glassware, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, is making a celebrated return to the South African market through Core Catering Supplies. This reintroduction not only revives a legacy but also reinforces our commitment to offering durable, high-performance glassware to the hospitality industry.

A Legacy of Strength and Craftsmanship

Founded in 1818 as the New England Glass Company, Libbey has been at the forefront of glassmaking for over 200 years. With a move to Toledo, Ohio, in 1888, the company established itself as a global leader, pioneering advancements in durability and manufacturing efficiency.

What set Libbey apart, and what still defines it today, is its extraordinary strength. When Core first introduced Libbey glassware to South Africa over 20 years ago, it came with a higher price point—not just for its premium quality, but because of the unmatched durability that allowed the brand to offer a chip warranty. To prove its resilience, we didn’t just talk about it—we demonstrated it. At trade shows and expos, Core representatives would bash Libbey glasses on tables and even stand on them to showcase their strength. The result? Wide-eyed amazement and a growing demand for one of the most durable glassware ranges on the market.

From a Tough Start to a Hospitality Favourite

Breaking into the South African market took time, but once hospitality professionals saw the value of investing in glassware that lasted longer and looked great, Libbey became one of Core’s most sought-after brands nationwide. With its chip-resistant quality, elegant designs, and long-lasting durability, it quickly won over chefs, baristas, and restaurateurs who needed reliable glassware that could withstand the demands of a fast-paced service environment.

Libbey Returns – Stronger Than Ever

Now, Libbey is back, and we are thrilled to bring this powerhouse of glassware back into the Core portfolio. Alongside our growing range of exclusive glassware, Libbey will once again be available to our customers nationwide.

Both Libbey and our expanded glassware collection will be available from April 2025—giving hospitality professionals access to the same high-performance glassware that wowed the industry all those years ago.

Stay tuned for more details as we reintroduce a true icon of durability and design!