WATCH: TikTok user serves up 'purple pap' – but not everyone is toasting to this red wine twist
FOODIES
A traditional bowl of pap, which is a staple in South African diets.
Image: System
A TikTok user has taken the internet by storm with her unconventional take on a beloved South African staple, introducing a dish she dubs "purple pap".
Content creator @harppiness_ shocked many food enthusiasts by revealing a secret ingredient that has left viewers both intrigued and amused - red wine.
In a viral video, @harppiness_ demonstrates her unique recipe, stating, “Let me show you how to make purple pap. You are going to need maize meal and any red wine of your choice.”
The process begins with the content creator pouring boiling water and red wine into a pot on the stove, followed by the addition of maize meal, which she vigorously mixes with a wooden spoon.
“And before you guys come for me, I just want to say, I grew up eating what everyone eats, but at some point, I got very bored.
"Then I started experimenting and trying out new things and recipes. Trust me, guys, my appetite has improved as someone who has always struggled with eating,” she adds, explaining her culinary journey.
Pap, a soft porridge made from maize meal, holds a cherished place in many South African households.
Universally enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, or supper, its affordability and versatility make it a staple dish.
Traditional pap can be adjusted for texture, ranging from runny to stiff.
In recent years, many have taken to adding their creative flair to the dish, incorporating ingredients like carrots, cheese, mushrooms, and herbs to elevate the flavours.
However, the introduction of red wine has sparked a lively debate across social media platforms.
Many users weighed in on this innovative twist with mixed reactions.
One user, @masingita, quipped, “Yah shem, pap my dhiye, you’ve been through a lot this year.”
Another, @Rea| YOUR LOCAL DREADHEAD, remarked, “Aowa, my sister! This is rage bait 😭,” clearly echoing feelings of disbelief.
Others likened her twist to a healthier alternative, with @A🐑 commenting, “Sorghum/zviyo will also give you purple-ish sadza/pap as well, and it’s healthier 😭.”
Meanwhile, @Yamkela Sopangisa questioned the lack of food colouring in modern recipes by stating, “So food colouring is not a thing anymore?👀 What a tough time to be pap 😭.”
Regardless of the polarising views, @harppiness_ has undoubtedly stirred the pot - literally and figuratively - and has opened conversations about culinary creativity and cultural staples.