Tis’ the season to be jolly and what better way to spend it with the family you’ve chosen? We’ve roped in Chef Mmule to help you curate the perfect setting and menu for your girls. Did someone say Host with the Most?
If it’s your turn to host your friends this year, you’ve probably spent hours online trying to find inspo. You know the type of vibe your friends enjoy so you’re already one step closer to hosting your perfect friendsmas. And if you’re looking to start your own tradition this year, Chef Mmule says, “Start with gratitude. Celebrate what the year has brought and who you’ve become through your friendships. Create rituals: a toast, a song, a shared prayer, or a memory jar. The magic isn’t in the table setting; it’s in the togetherness.”
Glamour: Friendsmas is such a modern celebration; all about chosen family and food. What does this concept mean to you personally?
Chef Mmule: Friendsmas is pure joy. It’s about celebrating the people you’ve chosen, the friends who’ve become your family. For me, it’s laughter that carries into the night, a playlist that never ends, and food that feels like a hug. It’s less about perfection and more about presence.
Glamour: If you were curating the ultimate Friendsmas menu, what would be on the table? Please give us a starter, main, and dessert plus any signature drinks or snacks to elevate the vibe.
Chef Mmule:
Starter: Burrata with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Basil Oil & Dombolo Crisps creamy, fresh, and beautifully simple, served with a local twist.
Main: Roast Spatchcock Chicken with Honey-Ginger Glaze, paired with Coconut Millet Pilaf and Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter Crumbs.
Dessert: Amarula & Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Caramelised Pineapple light, silky, and festive.Signature Drink: Sparkling Rooibos & Citrus Spritz a modern, South African-inspired twist on the classic cocktail.
Snack Board: A luxe grazing platter with biltong carpaccio, marinated olives, spiced nuts, and seasonal fruit for effortless elegance.
Glamour: We know not everyone has hours to cook. Could you include at least one shortcut or make-ahead dish in your Friendsmas menu?
Chef Mmule: Definitely prepping ingredients beforehand, make the dessert-ahead of time so that it settles. Brine any turkey or chicken ahead of time to inject flavour into the protein. Then chop all vegetables in advance.
Glamour: What are your go-to tricks for creating a festive table that feels luxe but laid-back perfect for a stylish, feel-good gathering?
Chef Mmule: I mix textures; natural linen, woven placemats, and a touch of gold or glass for shine. Fresh herbs or seasonal fruit as centrepieces always add life. And candles always. It’s less about spending, more about layering warmth and thoughtfulness.
Glamour: What's your hosting mantra? The one thing you always keep in mind when feeding your tribe.
Chef Mmule: Keep it soulful. No matter the setting or the menu, make sure people leave feeling fed in heart, not just in stomach. That’s always my intention. Let it be an experience from the music right down to the venue.
Glamour: Friendsmas often brings together diverse dietary needs, from vegan to gluten-free.
How do you approach building a menu that feels inclusive without compromising on flavour?
Chef Mmule:I focus on whole ingredients and bold flavour. Most of my dishes are naturally adaptable; you can swap the protein or dairy, but the soul of the dish remains. The goal is to make everyone feel considered, not accommodated.
Glamour: The vibe matters just as much as the food. What are your go-to music playlists, candles, or décor touches that set the mood for a truly memorable Friendsmas gathering?
Chef Mmule: I have a Feed My Tribe playlist I have created on Spotify & Apple Music that people can enjoy. For scent, I gravitate to warm notes like amber, vanilla, or sandalwood, luxury candles and diffusers. And I always dim the lights and let the glow from candles and laughter fill the room.
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