John Myers
Introduction: South African cuisine
South African cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and influences from different cultures. It is heavily influenced by indigenous African cuisine, as well as Dutch, Malay, and Indian cuisine. South African cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices, as well as its emphasis on meat dishes.
Staple sides: pap and chakalaka
Pap is a traditional South African side dish made from maize meal. It is a staple side dish in many households and is often served with stews, curries, and braai (barbecue) dishes. Chakalaka is another staple side dish in South Africa that is often served with pap. It is a spicy vegetable relish made from tomatoes, onions, carrots, and chili peppers.
Braai favorites: mieliepap and potato salad
Mieliepap is a popular side dish that is often served at braais (barbecues). It is similar to pap but is made with sweetcorn instead of maize meal. Mieliepap is often served with boerewors (sausage) and other grilled meats. Potato salad is another popular side dish at braais in South Africa. It is made from boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and a variety of other ingredients such as onions, celery, and mustard.
Sweet and sour: atchar and sambals
Atchar is a sweet and sour condiment that is often served with curries and other spicy dishes in South Africa. It is made from pickled fruits and vegetables such as mangoes, cucumbers, and carrots, and is flavored with vinegar, sugar, and spices. Sambals are also a popular sweet and sour side dish in South Africa. They are made from chopped fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and pineapples, and are often served with spicy dishes.
Comfort sides: vetkoek and samp and beans
Vetkoek is a traditional South African comfort food that is similar to a doughnut. It is made from fried dough and can be filled with a variety of different ingredients such as mince, cheese, or jam. Samp and beans is another popular comfort food in South Africa. It is a dish made from dried corn kernels (samp) and beans that are boiled with onions and spices.
Dessert sides: malva pudding and koeksisters
Malva pudding is a popular South African dessert that is similar to a sponge cake. It is made from flour, sugar, eggs, and milk, and is flavored with apricot jam. Koeksisters are another popular South African dessert that is similar to a doughnut. They are made from fried dough that is soaked in syrup and flavored with cinnamon and ginger.
