**Chakalaka: A Flavorful South African Dish with a Spicy Kick**
Chakalaka is a vibrant and flavorful South African dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its unique blend of spices, vegetables, and beans. Originating in the Zulu and Xhosa cultures, this delectable dish has become a staple in South African cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Chakalaka is typically served as a relish or condiment, adding a spicy and tangy kick to grilled meats, pap (maize porridge), or samp (a type of dried maize). This versatile dish can also be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a main course when paired with other ingredients. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, chakalaka is a true culinary delight that showcases the richness of South African cuisine.
This article presents a collection of chakalaka recipes that cater to various dietary preferences and taste profiles. From the classic chakalaka recipe made with fresh vegetables, beans, and a blend of spices to a vegan version that uses plant-based ingredients, there is a chakalaka recipe for everyone. For those who prefer a milder flavor, there is a mild chakalaka recipe that tones down the heat without compromising on taste. Additionally, the article includes a chakalaka sauce recipe that can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or condiment, adding a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you are a seasoned cook or new to South African cuisine, these chakalaka recipes will guide you in creating this delicious and versatile dish, allowing you to experience the vibrant flavors of South Africa in your own kitchen.
CHAKALAKA (SPICY VEGETABLE RELISH)
No one in South Africa prepares chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish, the same way. Serve the chakalaka with grilled meats or fish, stews, rice...anything.
Provided by Hawa Hassan
Categories South Africa Vegetarian Cabbage Tomato Onion Ginger Coriander Side
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Warm the oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot set over medium heat. Stir in the onion, garlic, jalapeño, and ginger. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook, stirring, just until the spices are wonderfully fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, and tomatoes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, uncovered, giving the mixture a stir every so often, until all the vegetables are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 30 minutes. Turn off the heat, stir in the vinegar, and season the chakalaka to taste with salt. Let the chakalaka cool to room temperature and season it to taste one final time. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, then serve it either cold or at room temperature.
CHAKALAKA (SOUTH AFRICAN VEGETABLE STIR-FRY)
This is a staple food in South Africa as well as other parts. My amaXhosa friend, Ntombizanele Sokupa, gave this recipe to me. She eats this with Pap -Recipe #309584, but says it can also be enjoyed as a side dish with meat or vegemeat or with bread. Thanks Zanele!
Provided by Enjolinfam
Categories Curries
Time 40m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Fry the onion and pepper together with oil in a large skillet until the onion is clear.
- Add the grated carrots, tomatoes, water, and all the seasonings to your liking and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
CHAKALAKA AND CHEDDAR BRAAIBROODJIES (GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES)
The liberal spoonful of Chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish) makes this grilled cheese sandwich recipe extra special.
Provided by Hawa Hassan
Categories Lunch Sandwich Cheese Tomato Cabbage Quick & Easy South Africa
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Set a cast-iron pan or other heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Spread 1 tablespoon of the mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice of bread mayonnaise-side down in the skillet and top it with half the cheese, then top with the chakalaka and onion. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the onion, then place the second piece of bread, mayonnaise-side up, on top.
- Cover the pan and cook until the bottom of the sandwich is browned, about 2 minutes. Give the sandwich a good press with a spatula and then carefully flip it over, cover, and cook until the second side is browned and the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.
CHAKALAKA
Recently enjoyed my first meal at a local South African restaurant here in Brooklyn. There we enjoyed this fabulous side dish - a spicy revamped rendition of baked beans. Of course, this sent me in search of a recipe to prepare at home. Found this one on the Internet and plan to try it soon. The original called for three times the amount of oil but I plan to make it as presented.
Provided by justcallmetoni
Categories Onions
Time 30m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Fry ginger, garlic, chillis, onions in the oil.
- Add the leaf masala or curry powder of your choice.
- Add the tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add peppers and carrots and cook for 10 minutes. Add baked beans and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add coriander. Check seasoning. Serve with whatever you want, hot or cold.
Tips:
- Use ripe tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the sweeter and more flavorful the chakalaka will be.
- Don't be afraid to add some heat: Chakalaka is traditionally a spicy dish, so don't be afraid to add some chili peppers or cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use a variety of vegetables: The more vegetables you use, the more flavorful the chakalaka will be. Some good options include carrots, bell peppers, onions, and cabbage.
- Cook the chakalaka over low heat: This will allow the flavors to develop and deepen.
- Serve the chakalaka with your favorite protein: Chakalaka is a great side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or beef.
Conclusion:
Chakalaka is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it's also a healthy and affordable meal option. So next time you're looking for something new to try, give chakalaka a try!
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