Now you can bake like a professional

The retailer's Head of Foods Julian Novak, says, “Today, as more and more South Africans are entertaining at home, they are discovering - or rediscovering - the joys of cooking. These new ranges make it easier by providing not only a wide range of essential ingredients for the more experienced cook, but also a range of ready-to-use solutions that anyone can use to turn out restaurant-quality food in their own homes with minimal effort.”

The retailer's new cook's essentials run the gamut from fresh freeze-dried herbs, ready-to-use rubs and marinades to simmer sauces, savoury spreads and flavoured oils as well as ready-to-serve dessert sauces and drizzles. There are even bread mixes that let even inexperienced cooks turn out authentic, crusty focaccias in practically no time.

All the products in the range - and there are 82 of them - have been benchmarked against the best similar products available and, says the retailer, are equivalent to fresh. Says Novak, “Our cook's essentials aren't only about convenience; they're about flavour.”

Most cooks are sure to find many of the basics - like the ready-to-squeeze tubes of crushed garlic, ginger and chilli, and flaked salt and pepper - indispensable. Those who love entertaining but don't quite have the confidence - or time - to start from scratch will love using solutions like ready-to-cook couscous ‘kits' and gourmet glazes - like sticky soy & ginger or pomegranate & apple - to create intricate dishes they can serve with confidence.

No more flops

The baking essentials range is crafted to make creating bakery-quality cakes and treats at home just as easy. From basic ingredients like vanilla extract and chocolate chips you can use in your own recipes to flop-proof kits that let you turn out gooey chocolate brownies, feather-light fairy cakes, scones and muffins with ease, the new baking essentials range has it all.

Whether you're baking for your child's birthday party or preparing an elegant dessert for a dinner party, the new baking essentials range is there to lend a helping hand.

The new cook's essentials and baking essentials ranges are available at most Woolworths food markets nationwide.