Simple Chakalaka

Chakalaka is one of those dishes that brings joy and warmth to any table. If you’ve never had it before, let me just say, you’re in for a treat! Originating from South Africa, Chakalaka is a flavorful vegetable relish that’s a delightful mix of spicy, tangy, and savory. It’s the perfect side dish to pair with grilled meats, stews, or even just served with bread or rice. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! You can adjust the spice level to your preference, so whether you like it mild or fiery hot, it’s totally customizable. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!

Why You’ll Love Simple Chakalaka

Bold Flavor: With a combination of vegetables, spices, and a little heat, Chakalaka is bursting with flavor. It’s like a little party in your mouth!

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time and is a great way to add extra veggies and flavor to your meals. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish, this one’s a winner!

Customizable: You can add as much or as little spice as you like, making it perfect for all tastes. Throw in some extra peppers for heat or even some beans for added protein.

Versatile: Chakalaka goes wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or even as a topping for a hearty salad. It’s the perfect complement to so many different types of dishes.

Ingredients

For the Chakalaka:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For sautéing the veggies and giving the dish a nice base.
• 1 onion, finely chopped – The foundation of the flavor. It adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped – Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• 2 carrots, grated – A lovely touch of sweetness and texture to balance the spiciness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is always a great way to add savory goodness to any dish.
• 1 can (400g) baked beans in tomato sauce – This adds a rich, savory element and makes it hearty.
• 1-2 tablespoons curry powder – The star of the dish. You can adjust the amount depending on your love for curry flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – A touch of smokiness to complement the curry powder.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – For a bit of heat, but feel free to adjust to your spice level.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season it up to bring everything together.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – To give it that rich, tangy depth.
• 1/2 cup water – Helps create the right consistency for the relish.
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar – A bit of tang to balance the spices and add flavor complexity.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the grated carrots and minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the Spices:
Stir in the curry powder, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for another minute or so, letting the spices bloom in the oil and infuse the vegetables with all that warm, aromatic goodness.

3. Add the Beans and Tomato Paste:
Pour in the canned baked beans along with the tomato paste. Stir everything together so that the beans and veggies are well coated in the spices.

4. Add Water and Vinegar:
Add the water to help the mixture come together and create a sauce-like consistency. Stir in the vinegar to give it that tangy kick that makes Chakalaka so special. Let the whole thing simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Season to Taste:
Taste your Chakalaka and add salt, pepper, or extra spices to your liking. If you want more heat, feel free to throw in a pinch of extra chili powder or even some fresh chopped chilies!

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the Chakalaka is ready, serve it warm alongside your favorite dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice, or even on top of a salad. It also makes a fantastic topping for toast or a perfect dip for your favorite chips. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 420mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 110%
Vitamin C: 50%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 8%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Simple Chakalaka

• With Grilled Meat: Serve it as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or lamb for a delicious and hearty meal.
• Over Rice: Spoon some over a bed of warm rice for a filling and flavorful dish.
• On Toast: Spread it on toast for a quick, tasty breakfast or snack.
• With Chips: Serve it with tortilla chips for a spicy, crunchy snack or appetizer.

Additional Tips

Add Beans for Extra Protein: While baked beans are traditional, you can also add kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Adjust the Heat: Not a fan of too much heat? Start with just a pinch of chili powder and gradually increase it as needed. You can also add fresh, chopped bell peppers for added flavor without the heat.

Use Fresh Tomatoes: For an extra burst of freshness, use fresh chopped tomatoes instead of canned tomato paste for a lighter version of the dish.

Make it a One-Pot Meal: If you want to make this dish even heartier, throw in some cooked chicken, sausages, or even tofu for a delicious one-pot meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make Chakalaka ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! Chakalaka actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q2: Can I freeze Chakalaka?
A2: Yes, you can freeze Chakalaka! Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q3: Can I make Chakalaka spicy?
A3: Definitely! Adjust the chili powder or even add some fresh chopped chilies to make it as spicy as you like.

Q4: Can I use canned beans?
A4: Yes, canned baked beans work perfectly for this recipe, but you can also use any type of canned beans like kidney beans or black beans for a different twist.

Q5: Can I make this dish vegan?
A5: Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, but make sure to use vegan-friendly ingredients for the baked beans and double-check the labels for any non-vegan additives.

Q6: How do I thicken Chakalaka?
A6: If your Chakalaka is too runny, you can let it simmer a little longer, or you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

Q7: What other vegetables can I add to Chakalaka?
A7: Feel free to experiment! You can add peas, corn, spinach, or zucchini to the mix for more texture and flavor.

Q8: Can I make Chakalaka spicier with fresh chilies?
A8: Yes, fresh chilies will definitely bring a fresh, fiery heat to the dish. Add them according to your spice tolerance.

Q9: How do I serve Chakalaka?
A9: Serve it as a side dish with meats, over rice, on toast, or as a dip with chips. It’s so versatile!

Q10: Can I use a different type of curry powder?
A10: Yes, you can experiment with different types of curry powder, such as mild, medium, or hot, depending on your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This Simple Chakalaka is a flavorful, vibrant, and spicy addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a dip, or a topping, it’s super versatile and easy to make. The best part? You can make it as mild or spicy as you like! Enjoy the deliciousness of this South African favorite and bring a little extra flavor to your table.

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