If you have ever been invited to a braai (barbecue) in South Africa you know you need to block out your entire afternoon. This fantastic tradition brings everyone together and gets everyone involved in one way or another, traditions like this make South Africa the homely place it is.

To give you a vegan friendly taste of a South African tradition which is usually very meaty, I am sharing my Chakalaka recipe!

Chakalaka is a delicious spicy South African vegetable stew that is traditionally served with pap (maize based thick porridge) – but, of course, I would recommend something healthier like quinoa! You will find baked beans, onions, curry spices and tomato coming together to create a mouth watering South African masterpiece.

Cooking time 25 minutes, serves 4-6 depending if main or side

Ingredients:

• 100g finely chopped onion, carrot and celery mix
• 1-2 finely chopped garlic cloves
• x1 400g tin tomatoes – make sure no sugar added
• x1 400g Baked Beans – make sure no sugar added
• x3 sliced capsicums – red, yellow and green
• 2 tbsp curry powder – add more if you like the heat!
• 1-2 tsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Method:

1. Put a BIG pot on a hot stove
2. Grease the pot with coconut oil
3. Sauté the garlic, onions, carrots and celery until soft
4. Add the sliced capsicum and sauté until soft
5. Add the tomato and baked beans
6. Add all remaining ingredients
7. Let simmer for 25 minutes – taste throughout and add spices according to taste
8. Serve with quinoa/cauliflower rice or have as side dish

Chakalaka is hearty, full of earthy flavours and best enjoyed in a crowd. So make a big pot of it and enjoy with your roommates, friends and family – the South African way.