Chakalaka is a vibrant and spicy vegetable relish that originates from South Africa, often served as a side dish at braais (barbecues) or with stews. This delicious dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. In this guide, we will explore the ingredients, cooking instructions, nutritional information, and some helpful tips to ensure your chakalaka turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
To serve 5 people, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 robot pepper (bell pepper), diced
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 can (410g) baked beans
- 2 tablespoons vegetable atchar (spicy pickled vegetables)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
Grocery List
Before you start cooking, gather the following items from your grocery store:
- Onion
- Robot pepper (bell pepper)
- Carrots
- Cucumber
- Baked beans (canned)
- Vegetable atchar
- Tomato sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
- Salt & pepper
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your chakalaka:
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Dice the onion and robot pepper.
- Grate the carrots.
- Dice the cucumber.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, robot pepper, grated carrots, diced cucumber, and baked beans.
- Add Seasonings:
- Stir in the vegetable atchar, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and sweet chili sauce.
- Mix everything until well combined.
- Serving:
- Serve your chakalaka chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or relish.
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for chakalaka is approximately 15 minutes, including preparation and mixing.
Nutritional Information
Chakalaka is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 5g
Tips and Notes
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to add more chili or spices if you prefer a spicier version.
- Storage: Chakalaka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving Suggestions: This relish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, on hot dog rolls, or as a topping for rice.
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