Simple 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
Find it online: https://www.cookflash.com/simple-chakalaka/