Chakalaka – South Africa

South African relish

Bring the vibrant flavours of South African cuisine to your table with this hearty and aromatic Chakalaka. This beloved spicy vegetable relish, originating from the townships of Johannesburg, transforms simple ingredients into a bold and satisfying dish. The combination of crisp bell peppers, fresh tomatoes, and fiery green chillies creates a perfect balance of textures and heat, while baked beans add a rich, satisfying element that makes this dish both nutritious and filling. Whether served hot or cold, this versatile condiment pairs beautifully with pap (maize porridge), bread, or grilled meats, making it an essential addition to any South African-inspired meal.

 

Chakalaka
Nutrition Information
  • Serving size: 100g
  • Calories: 66 kcal
  • Fat: 2.9g
  • Saturated fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.1g
  • Sugar: 4.1g
  • Sodium: 0.24g
  • Fiber: 2.7g
  • Protein: 2.3g
Recipe type: Relishes
Cuisine: South African
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
This is a recipe that was given to me by an old friend in South Africa many years ago. The first time I tasted it I was absolutely amazed by the flavour and to this day nothing has changed. It is such an easy to make recipe that manages to capture a taste of the excellence of African cuisine at it's simplest and but very best. Enjoy Chalalaka as a side to barbequed meat, Its also great on its own with a buttered bread roll. Ukonwabele ukutya kwakho
Ingredients
  • White onion - 1 medium sliced
  • Bell pepper - 1 any colour -sliced
  • Fresh tomatoes - 3 medium - finely chopped
  • vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Green chillies - 3 to 4 sliced ( use a fairly hot chilli)
  • Baked beans in tomato sauce - One can
  • Tomato paste - 1 teaspoon
Instructions
  1. Heat oil in a pan and add onions. Fry until they are turning translucent
  2. Add bell peppers and chillies and cook slowly for about 10 minutes or until bell peppers start to become soft
  3. Add tomatoes and tomato paste with a bit of water and stir
  4. When cooked, add the can of baked beans
  5. Can be served hot or cold
Notes
This recipe yields 4 - 5 portions

Keywords: South African Chakalaka

Link button