The Melting Pot of South African Cuisine: A Few Local Staples to Try at Home
South African cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours, inspired by the nation’s diverse cultural influences. From the rich and hearty dishes of the indigenous peoples to the spices brought by European settlers and the vibrant curries introduced by Indian immigrants, South African food is a true melting pot.
In this article, we’ll explore some traditional South African recipes that you can try at home to experience the country’s culinary diversity.
Skilpadjies
Skilpadjies are a South African delicacy made from lamb’s liver and wrapped in caul fat. This traditional dish is rich in flavour and has a unique texture. They may not be for everyone but you should at least try it once.
Ingredients:
- 500g lamb’s liver
- 200g caul fat (the membrane that surrounds the organs)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil.
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Rinse liver and cut into small pieces
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
- Marinate the Liver in the marinade.
- Make the filling by sauteing onion and garlic.
- Add coriander, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Add breadcrumbs and parsley.
- Lay out the caul fat and place a spoonful of filling and liver in the centre.
- Wrap it up and stick it with toothpicks.
- Grill the Skilpadjies for 3-4 minutes each side.
- Serve:
Bunny Chow
Bunny chow is a popular South African fast-food dish, born in the Indian community of Durban. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, and it’s a must-try for anyone exploring South African flavours.
Ingredients:
- 4 small loaves of bread (or 2 large)
- Chopped fresh coriander for garnish
- 500g boneless lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust for your preferred level of spiciness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spiciness)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cut the top off each loaf of bread and hollow out the centre, creating a bread “bowl.”
- Sauté Onions and spices
- Brown the lamb
- Add tomatoes and potatoes
- Simmer with the broth
- Fill each bread bowl with your curry.
- Garnish with fresh coriander.
- Serve and enjoy!
Malva Pudding: A Sweet Ending
No South African meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Malva pudding is the perfect choice. This decadent dessert is a sponge cake drenched in a sweet and sticky apricot sauce.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix the flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the jam.
- Dissolve the baking soda in the vinegar and add it to the egg mixture.
- Melt the butter and add the milk.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for about 40 minutes or until it’s golden brown.
- While the pudding is baking, prepare the sauce by heating the cream, sugar, butter, and hot water until it’s thick and syrupy.
- Pour the hot sauce over the hot pudding as soon as it’s out of the oven, allowing it to soak in.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- A pinch of salt
- For the sauce: 1 cup cream, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and 1/2 cup hot water
These are just a few examples of South African dishes that reflect the country’s diverse culinary heritage. By trying these recipes at home, you can embark on a culinary journey and experience the rich and delicious tapestry of South African cuisine. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and start cooking to savour the flavours of the Rainbow Nation in your own kitchen!
