The top five alternative 'padkos' treats for an Easter road trip

• Snacks are an important aspect of travelling. It could make or break a roadtrip and that is why a careful selection of "padkos" is essential.
• The usual contenders (grilled cheese sandwiches, meatballs and chicken wings) hold a certain padkos novelty, however, it never hurts to explore a few creative alternatives.
• Below are some road trip-worthy sweet treats designed to best suit the Easter season, including a chocolate brownie recipe.

Travels over the school holidays and Easter weekend bring the promise of adventure and exploration. As you hit the open road, the anticipation builds, and the journey becomes just as important as the destination.

One key element that can make (or break!) a road trip is the selection of snacks. After all, what's a road trip without some tasty "padkos" to keep you energised on the journey?

Although Wayne Blake, the general manager at ANEW Resort White River, says grilled cheese sandwiches, meatballs and chicken wings will always be firm favourites, he suggests a few creative alternatives to inspire your taste buds. 

Here are his top five road trip-worthy foods, and a recipe for the ultimate chocolate brownies, to fuel your travel. 

1. Durban-style popcorn

Spicy pineapple - tangy fresh pineapple chunks doused in curry powder - is most definitely one of Durban's most unique snacks. Street vendors usually sell the treat along the beachfront. Be inspired by this unique blend of spices and prepare a pre-mix of chili powder, sugar, salt and a dash of vinegar and generously coat freshly popped popcorn. Make enough – it won't last long!

Durban-style popcorn. (Supplied)

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2. South African-style Scotch eggs

Portable and tasty as a cold snack, Scotch eggs are filling and comfort food at its best. Essentially, they are hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage meat, coated in bread crumbs and deep-fried for a delicious snack on the go. For a South African twist, substitute the pork mince for boerewors by simply removing the wors meat from the casing. Prepare a dipping sauce with mayonnaise and a dash of hot sauce or sweet chili sauce for a satisfying snack. 

Scotch eggs South African style. (Supplied)

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3. Roasted butternut toasted pumpkin seed, and Danish feta salad

This scrumptious and filling salad is a perfect roadside "padkos" snack when you need to stretch your legs. Packed with roasted butternut, toasted pumpkin seeds, and Danish feta, it's a flavourful treat that keeps you satisfied (and healthy) on the go. Add couscous, quinoa, chickpeas or bulgar wheat for additional sustenance. Pack it in glass mason jars and enjoy a fresh taste wherever your journey leads.

4. Falafels

Made from wholesome chickpeas, falafels are a fantastic road trip snack. Their crispy exterior and flavoursome interior offer a satisfying crunch and bold taste. Whether eaten on their own or in a pita with chilli and coriander, humus or tzatziki, falafel is a convenient and tasty option for vegetarians. 

Falafels. (Supplied)

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5. Chocolate brownies

Satisfy your sweet cravings with rich and indulgent chocolate brownies. These heavenly squares of chocolate goodness whether enjoyed as a mid-journey pick-me-up or a post-adventure reward, are the ultimate road trip dessert.

Wayne shares his fool-proof recipe which you can make a day ahead of your trip and prepare in 25 minutes. Following the quantity measurements of this recipe, the results should yield one batch. 

Chocolate Brownies. (Supplied)

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Ingredients:

• 3⁄4 cup flour 
• 1 cup sugar
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 
• 1⁄4 cup cocoa 
• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened – do not melt completely – best to leave outside day before in a cool dry spot
• 2 eggs, whole
• 1 teaspoon vanilla 
• 1⁄2 cup chopped nuts of your choice or use toasted mixed nuts  
• 200g chopped baking chocolate