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Chakalaka

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Author: Imma
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Chakalaka – a refreshing spicy tomato bean relish that will provoke your taste bud.

Chakalaka

Simple yet pleasing in every way, this South African –born spicy vegetable side can be as spicy or as mild as you like it. It all depends on you and which direction you want to go.

chakalaka

Chakalaka is a dish that originates from South Africa and it is staple throughout the country. Mostly during celebrations, gathering and a must have during braais (South African barbecues). Legend has it that- it was was developed  by men working in the goldmines- they put together vegetables on hand together with canned beans to form a great relish to pair with their starchy side.

Chakalaka

Although this is great with barbecues, I like to pair it with any protein – it has become one of my favorites when trying to fill up with vegetables. What is really appealing about this dish is that it is very adaptable because you can add more vegetables and/or spices to make it suitable to your taste bud or palate.

Chakalaka

These are the basic ingredients: Onions, green pepper, cabbage, chilies, carrots and curry powder. Use spices that you have on hand. Most recipes call for beans- you can use baked beans or boiled beans. Here, I included baked beans because it not only makes it filling but also adds some sweetness, which acts as a foil to the chili peppers. As with most, relish the flavor improves the next day.

Enjoy!

Chakalaka
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Chakalaka

Chakalaka- a refreshing spicy tomato bean relish that will provoke your taste bud.
4.78 from 40 votes
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
South African
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup cooking oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1-2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ginger minced
  • 1-2 tomatoes
  • 3-4 cups sliced cabbage
  • 1 -2 Chili peppers diced seeds removed for less heat
  • 1 large carrot grated on the large side or sliced thinly
  • 1 medium green pepper diced
  • 1 medium red pepper diced
  • 1 14 ounce baked beans
  • 1 teaspoons bouillon powder optional

Instructions

  • In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat.
  • Add onion, give it a minute or two,
  • Stir in all the spices; garlic, ginger, smoked paprika, curry, cayenne pepper, thyme- continue stirring for about a minute to let the flavors bloom. Then add tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots and cabbage
  • Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burns.
  • Finally add baked beans, bouillon powder stir Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Adjust for seasonings. Serve warm

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 215kcal (11%)| Carbohydrates: 31g (10%)| Protein: 6g (12%)| Fat: 9g (14%)| Sodium: 468mg (20%)| Potassium: 552mg (16%)| Fiber: 7g (29%)| Sugar: 13g (14%)| Vitamin A: 4345IU (87%)| Vitamin C: 83.2mg (101%)| Calcium: 65mg (7%)| Iron: 1.9mg (11%)
Author: Imma
Course: Main
Cuisine: South African
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Nutrition Facts
Chakalaka
Amount Per Serving
Calories 215 Calories from Fat 81
% Daily Value*
Fat 9g14%
Sodium 468mg20%
Potassium 552mg16%
Carbohydrates 31g10%
Fiber 7g29%
Sugar 13g14%
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 4345IU87%
Vitamin C 83.2mg101%
Calcium 65mg7%
Iron 1.9mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

 

chakalaka

chakalaka

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Chakalaka

Chakalaka

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Comments & Reviews

  1. Adamandia Kritsiotis says

    My recipe I need to make requires l can if chakalaka. Would this homemade recipe have the same effect. I live on a Greek island and this product is just not available but it sounds amazing and I have saved it.

    Reply

    • ImmaculateBites says

      Hi Adamandia.
      Yes it will.Making homemade chakalaka can be a wonderful substitute when you can’t find the canned version, especially since you can tailor it to your taste preferences

      Do let us know how it works out for you.

      Thanks

      Reply

  2. Yulia says

    5 stars
    This is AMAZING!! Love this so much. I have this with couscous and it’s one of my favorite lunches ever since I discovered it. Thank you for bringing a new dish to my life 🙂

    Reply

      • ImmaculateBites says

        Hi Eno,

        Chakalaka, when stored properly in the refrigerator, can typically last for about 3 to 5 days. Here are some tips to ensure it stays fresh and safe to consume during this period:

        Cooling: Allow the chakalaka to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This prevents increasing the temperature inside your fridge, which could affect other stored food items.
        Airtight Container: Transfer the chakalaka to an airtight container. This helps maintain its quality and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge.
        Refrigeration: Place the container in the refrigerator promptly. Keeping it consistently cold will help preserve its freshness.

        Check Before Use: Before using refrigerated chakalaka, always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell, a change in texture, or any visible mold. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the chakalaka.
        Reheating: If you plan to reheat the chakalaka, ensure it’s heated through to a safe temperature. You can reheat it on the stove or in a microwave.

        Remember, these are general guidelines, and the shelf life can vary based on factors such as the initial freshness of the ingredients and the temperature of your refrigerator. It’s always best to err on the side of caution with any leftovers.

  3. Andrea says

    5 stars
    Great recipe, really tasty with a nice hit of heat – I followed it to the letter bar substituting the fresh tomatoes for a 400g tin of chopped tomatoes and a tbsp or so of tomato puree and it was delicious.

    Reply

    • Imma says

      Amazing!!!!! That looks absolutely delicious!! Glad you loved it. Looking forward to you trying more of my recipes.

      Reply

    • Imma says

      You are more than welcome. And if there’s a recipe you’d love to see, please let me know. Thanks:)

      Reply

  8. Darlene Ellis says

    5 stars
    I am vegan always looking for new recipes. This hit it out of the park. I made it just as the recipe stands, no substitutions, since I like things spicy. Not disappointed. I will certainly be looking for more of your recipes. Serving with some roasted white and sweet potatoes with grilled tofu. Can’t wait for dinner!

    Reply

  9. Jimmy says

    5 stars
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    Reply

    • Paul Phillips says

      I’m going to try this, I usually order on line but it doesn’t taste like when I was in SA wish me luck. Any recommendations about cabbage.

      Reply