Simple Chakalaka
Chakalaka isn’t just a side dish—it’s a burst of bold, spicy, and smoky flavors that brings any meal to life! This South African classic is a hearty mix of veggies, beans, and warm spices, perfect for serving with braai (BBQ), pap, or even fresh bread. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a staple for any home cook. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love Simple Chakalaka
Versatile
Works as a side dish, dip, or even a main meal when served with rice or bread.
Budget-Friendly
Made with affordable pantry staples—simple ingredients, big flavor!
Quick and Easy
Comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Customizable
Spice it up, make it mild, add extra veggies—it’s all up to you!
Crowd-Pleasing
A favorite at BBQs, family dinners, and gatherings, adding a delicious zing to any meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Simple Chakalaka
Chakalaka is all about simple ingredients that bring bold flavors together!
Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow for color and crunch.
Carrots: Grated for a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh and fragrant, adding a depth of flavor.
Tomatoes: Creates a rich, hearty sauce.
Baked Beans: A classic addition for texture and a hint of sweetness.
Curry Powder: The key spice that gives chakalaka its warm, earthy taste.
Paprika: Adds a smoky depth.
Chili (optional): For those who love extra heat!
Oil: Helps sauté everything to bring out the flavors.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the natural flavors.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Cook until soft and fragrant.
Add the Carrots & Spices
Stir in the grated carrots, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the spices become aromatic.
Simmer with Tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes, stirring well. Let them cook down until they form a rich, thick sauce.
Stir in the Beans
Pour in the baked beans and mix everything together. Let it simmer for a few more minutes so all the flavors blend beautifully.
Taste & Adjust
Adjust seasoning if needed. Want it spicier? Add more chili!
Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish or main meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Simple Chakalaka
Chakalaka is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with:
- Pap (maize meal porridge) – A classic pairing.
- Grilled Meat – Perfect with BBQ or roasted chicken.
- Fresh Bread – Mop up all that delicious sauce.
- Rice – Turns it into a filling meal.
- Fried Eggs – A great breakfast combo!
Additional Tips
- Let it sit – The flavors develop even more if you let it rest before serving.
- Make it ahead – Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add more veggies – Try cabbage, zucchini, or green beans.
- Adjust the spice – Keep it mild or make it fiery—your choice!
FAQ’s
1. Can I make chakalaka without beans?
Yes! You can skip the beans or use chickpeas instead for a different texture.
2. How spicy is chakalaka?
It depends on how much chili you add! You can make it mild or fiery.
3. Can I freeze chakalaka?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. What’s the best way to reheat chakalaka?
Simply warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned diced tomatoes work just as well.
6. Is chakalaka vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
7. Can I make a big batch?
Definitely! Just double or triple the ingredients.
8. What can I use instead of curry powder?
Try garam masala or a mix of cumin, turmeric, and coriander.
9. Can I add meat?
Yes! Sausages, shredded chicken, or beef make great additions.
10. What makes chakalaka unique?
Its bold flavors, rich texture, and perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky goodness!
Conclusion
Simple Chakalaka is the perfect side dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it with pap, BBQ, or just eating it straight from the spoon, it’s guaranteed to be a hit! Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
PrintSimple Chakalaka
Simple Chakalaka is a vibrant, spicy South African vegetable relish bursting with flavor. This easy recipe combines sautéed onions, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes with a mix of aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or accompaniment to grilled meats, it brings a hearty, zesty kick to any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Side Dish / Relish
- Method: Stovetop simmering
- Cuisine: South African
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
– 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
– 2 medium carrots, grated or finely chopped
– 1-2 fresh green chilies, deseeded and finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) baked beans (or kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the red and green bell peppers and carrots (and green chilies, if using). Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the beans. Stir to combine.
5. Sprinkle in the curry powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Mix well, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld. If desired, stir in the lemon juice in the final minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
– For extra heat, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Chakalaka can be prepared a day ahead, as the flavors deepen when it sits.
– Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, pap (maize porridge), or even spooned over rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Sugar: ~8 g
- Sodium: ~350 mg
- Fat: ~7 g
- Saturated Fat: ~1 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20 g
- Fiber: ~5 g
- Protein: ~4 g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
