By Noko Mashilo
Siyasanga Papu is the culinary companion we all need, with her beloved chili sauce always at hand. With just a dash, she elevates any meal into a flavour-packed experience, adding her signature touch to each bite. Her dedication to enhancing food embodies her passion for extraordinary taste.
This founder of Siyababa Chilies shared with Vutivi News that her journey began during the Ka Lebitso la Moya theatre production, directed by Momo Matsunyane. “During the show, we would all bring food to share, and I always carried chili in my bag. The cast got curious and wanted to try it. Afterward, they even asked me to bring more for the next performance. On the first day, I sold 25 bottles, and that’s how Siyababa Chilies was born,” said Papu, originally from East London in the Eastern Cape.
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Papu describes her chili as a “flavour explosion”, known for its intense heat. “It enhances the overall taste experience and can even tenderise meat. At home, I use it to marinate chicken. While it’s hot, I’ve balanced it with other ingredients to make it kid-friendly. Some even use it as a dipping sauce, adding excitement to any dish and setting the tone for a great meal,” she explained.
The recipe features a blend of three types of chilies. It is inspired by an experience Papu had in Cape Town. “There, I met someone who grew chilies and we bonded over our love for spicy flavours. My ingredients capture that fiery essence, but with my own unique touch,” said Papu, affectionately dubbed the “Queen of Flavour” by her children.
As a small business owner, Papu faces challenges with distribution and marketing. “Being a recognisable face, I often get requests on social media from people asking how they can get my chili in other provinces. I’m still learning to manage this aspect of the business to reach those outside Pretoria, where we’re based,” she noted.
Currently, her chili sauce is available in 230g bottles, sold for R100 each. “We offer our original Siyababa Chilies flavour, which has a shelf life of five to six weeks once opened, or three to four months if unopened,” Papu explained. Makwena Molele from Atteridgeville discovered Siyababa Chili after watching a group of petrol attendants enjoying it. “I love hot flavours, and I can eat this chili anytime,” he said.
John Papola, from Mamelodi, compared Siyababa Chili’s heat to Papu’s fiery role on Gomora as Pretty, the daughter of the late Connie Chume’s character. “It’s perfect for weekends with friends in the township,” he said.
