Chakalaka (South African Vegetable Stew)
Chakalaka is a spicy South African vegetable relish made from beans, peppers, carrots, and tomatoes. It is often served as a side dish with bread, pap (maize porridge), or meat. Chakalaka is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables and spices depending on regional or personal preference.
Total Time
40 minutes
Servings
4–6
1 tablespoon oil, or as needed
3 medium onions, diced
1 teaspoon curry powder, or to taste
1 teaspoon chile powder
2 small Thai green chiles, chopped
3 medium carrots, diced
3 medium tomatoes, diced
2 medium green bell peppers, diced
¼ cup water
1 cube vegetable bouillon, crumbled
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2–3 minutes
Stir in the curry powder, chile powder, and chopped chile peppers. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
1 minute
Add the chopped tomatoes, grated carrots, and diced bell peppers. Stir well.
Add the crumbled bouillon cube and water. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
10–15 minutes
Stir in the baked beans and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, uncovered, until the mixture thickens.
3–5 minutes
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- •Chakalaka can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
- •Grated cabbage or green beans can be added for extra variety.
- •It can be served hot or cold, depending on preference.