Description
Chakalaka is a vibrant and spicy South African vegetable relish that combines sautéed onions, bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and baked beans seasoned with curry powder and paprika. This flavorful side dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be served warm or cold, pairing perfectly with pap, grilled meats, rice, or bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1–2 fresh chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1–2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Canned Goods
- 1 (15 oz) can baked beans in tomato sauce
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat to create a base for flavors.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Add bell peppers and garlic: Stir in the chopped green and red bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Cook for another 3 minutes to soften the vegetables and release their aromas.
- Add spices: Sprinkle in the curry powder, paprika, and ground ginger, stirring well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Cook carrots: Add the grated carrots and continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and soften the carrots.
- Add tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly saucy and starts to thicken.
- Add baked beans: Stir in the baked beans with their tomato sauce, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Season and simmer: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, add finely chopped chilies if desired for heat, then simmer the mixture for 5–10 minutes until heated through and flavors are well blended.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot or at room temperature as a side dish.
Notes
- Chakalaka can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for different meals.
- Pairs excellently with pap (maize porridge), grilled meats, rice, or fresh bread.
- Increase spiciness by adding extra fresh chilies or chili flakes.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and the flavors deepen over time.
