Mama's Pies and Goodies celebrated its grand opening June 5 at its location on the corner of Main Street and Texas Highway 16, next door to the Bandera County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Owner Helentia Holden, who has lived in Bandera County for 18 years, said she decided it was time to open her own business and share foods and products from her native South Africa with the community.
Members of the Bandera County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Holden to the local business community during the grand opening celebration.
The store specializes in homemade meat pies, South African condiments and biltong, a traditional airdried beef snack similar to jerky. Unlike most American jerky, biltong is made from thick cuts of beef marinated in vinegar, salt and spices before being air-dried.
Guests at the grand opening sampled several varieties of biltong as part of a large charcuterie display prepared by Holden's friends, Ruby and Ella. The board also featured cheeses and fresh vegetables.
Holden's menu includes both individual and family- sized meat pies. Offerings include steak and kidney pie, chicken and mushroom pie, chicken curry pie, beef curry pie and sausage rolls.
The shop also carries a variety of imported South African condiments and specialty foods.
Among the most popular products is Nando's Peri-Peri sauce, a spicy condiment made from African bird's eye chiles. The sauce has gained international popularity and is exported to more than 20 countries.
Danny Holden said one of his favorite ways to use the sauce is as a marinade for chicken thighs. He also compared it to salsa, saying it works well as a dip for chips.
Inside, the store is decorated with African-themed artwork, memorabilia and more than a dozen mounted antelope trophies. A large mural depicting the African savanna spans one wall, helping create an atmosphere inspired by South African culture and heritage.
The grand opening drew a number of community members and local officials, including Silver Sage Community Resource Center CEO Art Crawford, Bandera County Animal Control Director Sandra Schott and Bandera County Auditor Darryl Sadler. Family members, friends and fellow South Africans also attended the event.
Mama's Pies and Goodies is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The business is closed Mondays.
For more information, call 210-722-1011.
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