If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful, and utterly addictive condiment that can brighten up any meal, then this Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, warming spices, and a hint of heat, chakalaka is a South African culinary treasure that brings a joyful explosion of taste and texture to your plate. Whether you pair it with grilled meats, rice, or bread, this relish is a wonderfully versatile way to add a homemade touch of South African tradition to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully to create a harmony of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Each component plays a vital role— from the sweetness of bell peppers and carrots to the rich tang of tomatoes and baked beans, and the aromatic spices that make this relish truly unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: The perfect base for sautéing and bringing out the spices’ aroma.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a tender texture when cooked down.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory kick essential to the dish’s depth.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Brings warmth and a subtle zing that lifts the whole relish.
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color): Offer crunch, color, and a mild sweetness to balance spices.
- 2 carrots, grated: Add natural sweetness and a lovely textural contrast.
- 2 tomatoes, chopped: Bring juiciness and acidity to brighten the flavors.
- 1 cup canned baked beans in tomato sauce: Enrich the relish with creaminess and extra body.
- 1 tablespoon curry powder: A fragrant blend that defines the dish’s signature spice profile.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth and beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or fresh chopped chili: Gives the essential spicy heat, adjustable to taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Imparts an earthy herbal note to round out the spices.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the relish.
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (optional but traditional): Introduces a subtle crunch and lightness typical of chakalaka.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery touch for balance.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps simmer the vegetables until tender and melds the flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green.
How to Make Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté it slowly until it turns soft and translucent. This slow cooking releases its natural sweetness, which lays a flavorful foundation for the relish. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until their fragrances fill the kitchen, promising a dish packed with warmth and spice.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Now it’s time to introduce the diced bell peppers to the pan. Cook them for about five minutes, letting them soften just enough while still retaining a slight bite and gorgeous color. Following that, stir in the grated carrots and chopped tomatoes; they add sweetness and juicy texture that balances the spices perfectly.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Sprinkle in the curry powder, paprika, chili flakes, dried thyme, and tomato paste. Stir continuously for about a minute to toast the spices gently, allowing their aromatic oils to bloom and infuse the dish with their rich flavors. This step is crucial for achieving that signature spicy, savory depth that makes this Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Simmer and Combine
Pour in the water and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, giving the vegetables time to soften and the flavors to marry beautifully. Then fold in the canned baked beans and shredded cabbage if you’re using it; this adds creaminess and a tender crunch characteristic of authentic chakalaka. Season the relish with salt and black pepper, and simmer for another 5 minutes to blend all the flavors harmoniously.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh herbal note and vibrant color. This Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe can be enjoyed warm straight from the stove or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh lift that complements the spices wonderfully. You can also experiment by topping the relish with a dollop of tangy yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Side Dishes
Chakalaka is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside pap (a traditional South African maize porridge), fluffy rice, crusty bread, or grilled meats to balance the spicy kick and complex flavors of the relish. It’s also fantastic with roasted potatoes or as a zesty topping for burgers and sandwiches.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn this vibrant relish into a dip by serving it chilled or slightly warmed with an assortment of vegetable sticks or crackers? You can also use it as a flavorful base for a veggie wrap or spoon it over baked potatoes for a quick, hearty meal that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to enjoy later.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, chakalaka freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its vibrant flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat the relish gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, covered, for a minute or two until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
What is chakalaka?
Chakalaka is a traditional South African vegetable relish known for its spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. It is typically made with a mix of fresh vegetables, beans, and a blend of spices that create a wonderfully vibrant accompaniment to many dishes.
Can I adjust the spice level in this relish?
Absolutely! You can easily tailor this Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe to your heat preference by reducing or increasing the amount of chili flakes or fresh chilies used. It’s very forgiving and adaptable to your taste.
Is chakalaka vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and packed with nutritious vegetables and beans. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based meals without compromising on flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to chakalaka?
Definitely! While this recipe includes the classic components, you can add diced potatoes, canned corn, or any other vegetables you enjoy to make it your own unique take on this delicious relish.
How long does chakalaka keep?
When refrigerated in a sealed container, chakalaka will stay fresh for up to four days. It’s perfect for making ahead and enjoying over several meals as the flavors even improve overnight.
Final Thoughts
Making this Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe is like inviting a burst of vibrant South African culture right into your home kitchen. Its bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and wonderful versatility make it a true crowd-pleaser for any meal. Give it a try—you may just find your new favorite way to brighten up ordinary dishes!
Print
Spicy South African Chakalaka Vegetable Relish Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Chakalaka is a vibrant and spicy South African vegetable relish combining a flavorful mix of sautéed onions, peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and baked beans, enriched with warming spices like curry powder and paprika. This versatile side dish can be served warm or at room temperature alongside pap, rice, grilled meats, or bread. It’s a vegan, nutritious, and hearty accompaniment with a delightful depth of flavor that intensifies when enjoyed the next day.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (optional but traditional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or fresh chopped chili
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup canned baked beans in tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté onion: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat and cook the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, enhancing the base flavor.
- Add bell peppers and cook: Add the diced bell peppers to the pan and cook for approximately 5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Incorporate carrots and tomatoes: Stir in the grated carrots and chopped tomatoes, mixing thoroughly to combine all the vegetables together.
- Bloom spices: Add the curry powder, paprika, chili flakes, dried thyme, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute to activate the spices and develop a richer aroma.
- Simmer vegetables: Pour in 1/2 cup water, stir well, and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Add baked beans and cabbage: Stir in the canned baked beans (including the tomato sauce) and the shredded cabbage if using, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Final simmer: Continue to simmer the chakalaka for an additional 5 minutes to allow all ingredients to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the pan from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm or at room temperature as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Chakalaka tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes or fresh chili to customize the heat level from mild to spicy.
- This dish pairs excellently with pap (maize porridge), rice, grilled meats, or crusty bread.
- For variations, add diced potatoes or canned corn to diversify texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South African
