South African chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish that is packed with flavor. It is traditionally served with bread or pap and is a great way to add some heat to your meals. This classic dish is the perfect combination of fire-roasted vegetables, spices, and vinegars, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. While it’s easy to find chakalaka in South African restaurants and grocery stores, it’s even more satisfying to make your own version at home.
Ingredients for Authentic Chakalaka Recipe
This classic South African chakalaka recipe can vary greatly depending on your preferences and regional tastes, but the essentials are always the same. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make a delicious and authentic chakalaka at home:
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red or green peppers, sliced
• half a cabbage, shredded
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 can of baked beans
• 2 tablespoons of curry powder
• 2 tablespoons of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of mixed dried herbs
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Chakalaka at Home
Making chakalaka is fairly straightforward and the results are well worth the effort. Simply follow the steps below and you’ll be enjoying an authentic South African chakalaka in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all of the ingredients needed to make chakalaka. Begin by chopping the onion, cutting the peppers, shredding the cabbage, and slicing the carrots.
Step 2: Fry the Vegetables
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and fry for 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the peppers, cabbage, and carrots and fry for a further 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Once the vegetables have softened, add the tomatoes, curry powder, paprika, mixed herbs, turmeric, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all of the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Chakalaka
Add the baked beans and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and allow the chakalaka to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serving and Storing Chakalaka
Your delicious South African chakalaka is now ready to be served! It makes a wonderful accompaniment to any South African meal and can be served with bread, pap, or rice.
Leftover chakalaka can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Chakalaka can also be frozen for up to 2 weeks, making it an easy and convenient meal prep option.
Enjoy Your Homemade Chakalaka!
South African chakalaka is packed with flavor and is a great way to add some heat to your meals. This classic dish is easy to prepare, and the results are well worth the effort. Enjoy your homemade chakalaka and impress your friends and family with an authentic South African delicacy!
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