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Forkin
Side Dish

Chakalaka

Chakalaka is a vibrant South African vegetable relish, typically served as a side dish. This vegan version combines various vegetables in a spicy tomato-based sauce, offering a burst of flavor and texture. It's an excellent accompaniment to grilled foods or stews.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
50 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
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Chakalaka

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspvegetable oil
  • 1 pcsonion, finely chopped
  • 2 clovegarlic, minced
  • 1 tspginger, grated
  • 1 tbspcurry powder
  • 1 tspsmoked paprika
  • 0.5 tspchili powder
  • 1 pcsbell pepper, diced
  • 2 pcscarrot, grated
  • 400 gcanned chopped tomatoes
  • 400 gcanned baked beans in tomato sauce
  • 120 mlvegetable broth
  • 0.5 tspsalt
  • 0.25 tspblack pepper

garnish

  • 2 tbspfresh cilantro, chopped(optional)

Equipment

grater · large pot · wooden spoon · cutting board · knife

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

    About 2 min

  2. 2

    Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

    About 7 min

  3. 3

    Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

    About 1 min

  4. 4

    Add the curry powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder, and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Toasting the spices briefly enhances their flavor.

  5. 5

    Add the bell pepper and carrot to the pot, stirring well to combine with the spices.

    About 2 min

  6. 6

    Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, canned baked beans, and vegetable broth.

    About 1 min

  7. 7

    Season with salt and black pepper.

  8. 8

    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

    About 20 min

    Cook’s note: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  9. 9

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

    About 1 min

  10. 10

    Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover Chakalaka in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

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