Chakalaka, A South African Fun Dish

Chakalaka, A South African Fun Dish

When I first heard the name of this dish I rolled down laughing, how can a dish have such a funny name ? But it does. Chakalaka, is a traditional dish of the Black population of South Africa. It is an integral part of their Barbecue, Braais. This is also served as a side dish for grilled meat and often served as a starter on Malie Pap, South African bread. This is a simple dish made with Tomato, Onions and often with beans. But no doubt a real tasty affair. I often cook this as a main course and serve along with some crusty bread and a bowl of fresh green salad.

Preparation Time :  10 minutes
Cooking Time      :  15 - 20 minutes
Difficulty              :  Very Easy
Serves                  :  4 - 6

Ingredients :

3 tablespoons Oil

2 Onions, chopped

2 Bell peppers (use coloured ones, it gives the dish a wonderful look) 

2 or 3 Hot chili peppers, minced 

2 or 3 cloves Garlic, minced 

2 teaspoons Curry powder (use any brand of Curry powder) 

3Tomatoes, chopped 

1 can of Baked beans in tomato sauce

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Method :

 1) Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium flame.

 

 2) Add the onions, bell peppers, chili peppers, garlic and curry powder.

 

 3) Saute, stirring frequently, until the onions and peppers are cooked down and wilted, about 4 to 5 minutes.

 

 4) Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a boil.

 

 5) Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes.

 

 6) Stir in the baked beans, add salt and pepper and stir to heat through.

 

 7) Serve hot or cold as a side dish to meat, or simply with some crusty bread.

 

 

Note :

 

The original Chakalaka was probably a simple dish of onions, tomatoes and a little curry powder. These days, every South African household has their favourite recipe, which also includes bacon, pieces of ham, sausages and so on.

I some times opt for some additions to give Chakalaka a slightly different taste, which includes minced fresh ginger (added with the onions), grated carrots, shredded cabbage or chopped cauliflower (added after the tomatoes and simmered until cooked) and chopped cilantro (stirred in at the end).  Try these variations.