About Us

Our History

It was 1975 when I married Jeremiah Basie Mutloatse and officially became Masechaba. I was gifted my name by my in-laws. Its meaning, Mother of the Nation was strong, beautiful, and particularly special because it matched the meaning of my mother-in-law’s name.- Masechaba

Mama cooked simple yet incredibly tasty food. Often I would ask, ‘Ma, what spice did you put on this meat? It tastes delicious.’ She’d reply with a standard, ‘Ah, just salt and pepper.’ She made magic in the kitchen. A family favourite was her recipe for gemere, ginger beer. She made it now and again, leaving everyone wishing they could always have more.

When Daddy, her beloved husband, passed away, she followed culture and grieved, accepting visitors but not free to cook or prepare gemere.

Sitting by his casket, she carefully talked me through each step of the recipe sending me back for a pinch more of this or that with each tasting until it was just right. She had lovingly given me the recipe, and from then on I started making it for the family.

Over the years, I’ve added my own twist, but it’s built on the core recipe I’m thankful to Mama for. She lovingly gave me the foundation and encouraged my confidence so that I knew I could add a touch that was uniquely my own.

Soon I started to make the gemere for functions at church, as well as my growing family events (even for my kids’ friends’ parties). It was always a hit … and the requests just increased. That’s when the idea for Chabi’s Ginger was born. I trust that you will enjoy my gemere as your own…whether it’s with your loved ones at home, or at any function. Know Chabi’s Ginger is a gift from my heart to you, made with love.