Gear up for the Soweto Derby: host a watch party that scores big
The excitement is palpable as the much-anticipated Soweto Derby approaches, set for Saturday, February 1, at FNB Stadium.
For football fans, this iconic clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is not just about the beautiful game; it’s also an opportunity to gather with friends and family, share in the passion of the sport, and create lasting memories.
To ensure your watch party is as exhilarating as the match itself, here’s a comprehensive guide filled with tips on atmosphere, food and fun activities.
Create the right atmosphere
The first step towards a successful watch party is to establish an electric atmosphere that resonates with the energy of the match. Here are some suggestions:
- Decorate: Bedeck your space with team colours and souvenirs. To set the mood, hang jerseys, flags, and posters of iconic players from both teams.
- Seating arrangement: Ensure comfortable seating for all guests. Consider how many people you'll be hosting and set up ample seating with good television visibility.
- Sound system: Enhancing the audio experience is key; consider using a good-quality sound system to bring the stadium atmosphere into your living room.
- Dress code: Encourage guests to wear their team colours or jerseys to fuel the competitive spirit. A friendly wager for the best-dressed fan can add excitement!
Prepare a food spread that scores
No watch party is complete without scrumptious food that keeps your spectators fuelled and ready for action. Here are some top dishes that capture the essence of South African flavours while being easy to prepare and serve:
- Braai-style boerewors rolls: Nothing says Mzansi like boerewors. Serve grilled boerewors in fresh rolls with a selection of chutneys and sauces for guests to customise their bites.
- Mozambican peri-peri chicken wings: Spicy and flavoursome wings are a must-have. Marinate them in peri-peri sauce to bring a fiery kick that will energise your gathering.
- Potjiekos: This traditional stew, cooked in a cast-iron pot, not only tastes divine but also brings a sense of authentic South African culture to your meal.
- Mini bunny chows: For a unique twist, create bite-sized bunny chows with hollowed-out bread filled with curry. They’re fun to eat and add a homegrown touch.
- Game day platters: Assemble a variety of finger foods, from biltong and bangers to freshly baked muffins and savoury pastries, for guests to snack on throughout the match.
Drinks to keep the energy flowing
No Soweto Derby watch party is complete without refreshing beverages. Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options:
- Craft beers: Showcase local craft beers for the adult crowd, perhaps with a special touch by picking beers from teams’ cities.
- Rooibos iced tea: Refreshing unsweetened iced tea made from rooibos offers a delicious non-alcoholic alternative.
- Fruit punch: Create a vibrant fruit punch to engage the younger fans in the fun.
Engage with activities
To make your watch party even more memorable, incorporate some fun activities. Consider setting up a mini prediction board where guests can guess the final score or an entertaining quiz about the teams.
Friendly banter and competitive spirit will add to the experience.
With careful planning and delectable dishes, your Soweto Derby watch party is sure to be an unforgettable occasion. Gather your loved ones, whip up that culinary magic, and prepare for an afternoon filled with heart-pounding action, laughter, and camaraderie.
Courtesy of the South African Poultry Association, here's a delightful chicken and egg potjie with dombolo recipe for your gathering.
Serves: 6
Ingredients
For the potjie
Sunflower oil, for frying
8 chicken pieces (for a healthier option: remove skin)
Salt and pepper
2 onions, chopped
3 carrots, cut into 3cm pieces
3 garlic cloves, crushed
5 cups hot chicken stock
2 sprigs thyme, plus extra to garnish
2 eggs, beaten
6ml chutney
For the dumplings
2 cups self-raising flour
1 tsp salt
2 eggs, beaten
125ml milk (for a healthier option: low-fat milk)
Method
For the potjie, heat a splash of oil in a 23cm flat-bottomed cast-iron potjie over medium-hot coals and fry the chicken for about 5 minutes or until browned all over. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir through the onions and fry for 5 minutes until browned. Add the carrots, garlic, 4 cups of stock, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 45 minutes or until tender.
Slowly add the eggs to the remaining cup of hot stock while beating to create small egg drops. Stir in the chutney and add to the potjie. Bring to a simmer.
For the dumplings, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and stir in the eggs and milk with a fork until just combined (the dough will be sticky).
Use two tablespoons to scoop balls of the dough onto the top of the stew. Cook, covered for about 15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked. Serve sprinkled with extra thyme.