Description
Chakalaka is a flavorful South African vegetable relish made with a vibrant mix of bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, baked beans, and aromatic spices. This spicy and hearty side dish is perfect for pairing with maize porridge, grilled meats, or bread, offering a delicious and nutritious complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetable Base
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Spices & Flavorings
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1–2 chopped fresh chilies or ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Canned Ingredients
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can baked beans in tomato sauce
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften, becoming translucent.
- Add Bell Peppers: Incorporate the diced green and red bell peppers into the pan and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
- Incorporate Carrots, Garlic, and Ginger: Stir in the grated carrots along with the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add Spices and Chilies: Sprinkle in the curry powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and the fresh chopped chilies or chili flakes if you desire some heat. Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Pour in Tomatoes and Simmer: Add the canned chopped tomatoes with their juices to the pan. Stir thoroughly and allow the mixture to simmer for 5–7 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Add Baked Beans and Final Simmer: Stir in the baked beans in tomato sauce and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the chakalaka with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Chakalaka is traditionally served as a relish with pap (maize porridge), grilled meats, or bread.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to deepen.
- For a heartier variation, consider adding cooked cabbage or diced potatoes to the mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South African
