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Simple Chakalaka Recipe

Simple Chakalaka Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Spicy South African Chakalaka brings fiery vegetable medley straight from Cape Town’s street-food scene. Crunchy peppers, onions, and carrots dance with bold spices, delivering a zesty side dish that energizes your plate and delights you with authentic African flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables:

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 2 carrots (chopped or grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Sauce:

  • 1 can (400 grams / 14 ounces) baked beans (in tomato sauce)

Seasonings and Oil:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 12 teaspoons curry powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium temperature, allowing the chopped onion to become translucent and release its aromatic essence.
  2. Introduce minced garlic and diced bell pepper, sautéing for approximately 2-3 minutes until vegetables become tender and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate grated carrots into the mixture, cooking for 5-7 minutes to soften and develop a rich, caramelized texture.
  4. Gently fold in baked beans, ensuring even distribution throughout the vegetable medley.
  5. Sprinkle curry powder, salt, and black pepper across the surface, stirring thoroughly to integrate the seasonings.
  6. Reduce heat and allow the chakalaka to simmer for 10-15 minutes, enabling the flavors to harmonize and intensify.
  7. Transfer to a serving dish, presenting the vibrant, spicy mixture as a versatile accompaniment or standalone culinary delight.

Notes

  • Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of curry powder or adding fresh chili for extra spiciness.
  • Transform this dish into a vegetarian or vegan option by using plant-based baked beans and ensuring all ingredients are animal-product free.
  • Create a meal prep-friendly version by storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, which allows flavors to develop even more intensely.
  • Boost nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like chopped zucchini or spinach during the cooking process for increased fiber and vitamins.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: South African

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg