Traditional Chakalaka Relish

By Youcipe

7 months ago

Description

Vibrant, spicy, and bursting with flavor, this Traditional Chakalaka is a South African staple that brings zest to any meal! This colorful veggie relish, packed with bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and baked beans, is spiced with curry and a touch of heat. Perfect as a side, dip, or topping for your next braai or family feast! 😋🥄

Ingredients

✅ 1 large onion, finely chopped 🧅

✅ 2 green bell peppers, diced 🫑

✅ 2 red bell peppers, diced 🫑

✅ 3 medium carrots, grated 🥕

✅ 2–3 fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes, 400g) 🍅

✅ 1–2 fresh green chillies, finely chopped (adjust for spice) 🌶️

✅ 2 teaspoons garlic, minced 🧄

✅ 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild or hot, to taste) 🌿

✅ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️

✅ 1 teaspoon ground cumin 🌿

✅ 1 can (400g) baked beans in tomato sauce 🥫

✅ Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂

✅ Optional: 1 small cabbage, shredded, or 1 cup green beans, chopped 🥬

Equipment

✅ Large pan or skillet

✅ Wooden spoon or spatula

✅ Grater

✅ Knife and cutting board

Quick Steps

1️⃣ Sauté the Base:
Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2️⃣ Add Peppers:
Stir in 2 diced green and 2 diced red bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

3️⃣ Cook Vegetables:
Add 3 grated carrots, 2–3 chopped tomatoes, 1–2 chopped green chillies, and 2 tsp minced garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.

4️⃣ Season:
Sprinkle in 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp ground cumin. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

5️⃣ Add Beans and Simmer:
Stir in 1 can baked beans (with sauce) and optional cabbage or green beans. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.

6️⃣ Season and Serve:
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spice with more chilli if desired. Serve warm or cold as a side, relish, or topping with pap, braai, or bread. 😍

Tips

👉 Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or serve cold.

👉 Serving: Pair with pap, grilled meats, or use as a sandwich topping for extra flavor.

👉 Substitutions: Swap baked beans for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different texture. Use mild or hot curry powder based on spice preference.

👉 Spice Tip: For a milder chakalaka, reduce or omit chillies; for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.