There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Simple Chakalaka to bring a little South African magic into your kitchen! This vibrant, veggie-packed relish laced with warming spices is delightfully uncomplicated, but don’t let its simplicity fool you—every bite hums with flavor. It’s smoky, just the right level of spicy, and worth making again and again. Whether you need a quick side for your weeknight table, something colorful for a backyard braai, or simply crave a no-fuss meal bursting with personality, Simple Chakalaka is the answer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is that you only need a handful of everyday kitchen staples. Each ingredient helps build layers of taste, color, and comforting texture in your Simple Chakalaka. Let me guide you through how each one shines:
- Vegetable oil: Acts as the base for sautéing your aromatics and melds the flavors beautifully throughout the dish.
- Onion (diced): Gives sweetness and depth as it softens, setting the foundation for that classic chakalaka taste.
- Green bell pepper (chopped): Adds crispness and an appealing peppery brightness to every spoonful.
- Carrots (grated): Bring vibrant color and gentle, natural sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
- Garlic (minced): A must for savoriness; two cloves give just the right amount of punchiness.
- Curry powder: Delivers warmth, fragrance, and a signature South African flavor profile.
- Paprika: Infuses a mild smokiness and an inviting red hue throughout your Simple Chakalaka.
- Chili flakes (optional): Sprinkle to taste for an extra little fire—totally up to your spice preference!
- Canned chopped tomatoes: The key to a saucy consistency and a tangy lift that ties everything together.
- Baked beans in tomato sauce: The genius shortcut for creaminess, subtle sweetness, and a hearty bite.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors into focus—don’t skip or skimp!
- Black pepper: Rounds out the flavors with a gentle, cozy heat.
How to Make Simple Chakalaka
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onions and sauté them for 3–4 minutes. You’re looking for them to soften and just start to turn translucent—this unlocks that mellow, slightly sweet flavor that makes Simple Chakalaka magic from the very beginning.
Step 2: Build the Veggie Base
Add the green bell pepper, grated carrots, and minced garlic to the pan. Give everything a good stir and let it all cook together for another five minutes. The vegetables become tender, and the garlic’s fragrant aroma will let you know you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Now for the flavor fireworks! Sprinkle in the curry powder, paprika, and chili flakes (if you like a bit more heat). Stir, letting the spices toast in the oil for about a minute. This wakes up their flavors and makes your kitchen smell absolutely incredible.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in your can of chopped tomatoes and bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Give it 5–7 minutes to thicken up slightly. The tomatoes will melt into the veggies, creating a luscious, tangy sauce that forms the soul of Simple Chakalaka.
Step 5: Add the Beans and Final Seasoning
Gently stir in the baked beans (tomato sauce and all), then season with salt and black pepper. Let everything simmer for another five minutes so the flavors knit together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you need—a little extra salt or a pinch more chili never hurts.
How to Serve Simple Chakalaka
Garnishes
Even though Simple Chakalaka is beautiful as-is, a little garnish goes a long way! Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or coriander for a burst of color and freshness. A few extra chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon, can wake up the dish even more if you’re feeling zesty.
Side Dishes
This relish is endlessly versatile. Serve Simple Chakalaka alongside pap (South African maize porridge), fluffy rice, warm flatbreads, or as a vibrant partner for grilled meats and sausages. It’s also a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or even spooned onto toast for a lightning-fast lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For something special, spoon your Simple Chakalaka into individual ramekins or use it as a colorful filling for lettuce cups at a party. You can even layer it in a jar for a portable picnic side, or swirl it into a simple hummus dip for a South African twist on mezze!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simple Chakalaka actually gets better as it sits! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s meal even more delicious. It’ll keep well for up to four days without losing texture or vibrancy.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, Simple Chakalaka freezes like a dream. Pop it in freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch at the top for expansion. It’ll stay fresh for up to two months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop your Simple Chakalaka into a saucepan and warm it gently over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. If it’s thickened too much in the fridge, just add a splash of water to loosen it up. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave with great results.
FAQs
Can Simple Chakalaka be made ahead?
Absolutely! It’s one of those dishes that actually benefits from a little resting time, letting all the spices and veggies meld into a richer, deeper flavor. Make it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat when you’re ready for the best taste.
What kind of curry powder should I use?
Just about any mild or medium curry powder works beautifully in Simple Chakalaka. If you love things spicy, go for a hotter blend or add extra chili flakes. The key is to use a powder with a flavor you enjoy.
Is Simple Chakalaka gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! The recipe as written is naturally both vegan and gluten-free. Always double-check your canned beans and curry powder if you have allergies or sensitivities, but most standard brands should be safe.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely—Simple Chakalaka is wonderfully flexible. Try adding diced zucchini, corn, or chopped tomatoes for extra color and texture. Just keep the ratios similar so the end result is still saucy and scoopable.
How spicy is this dish?
This Simple Chakalaka recipe is mild to moderately spicy—especially if you omit the chili flakes. You control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili or adding a splash of hot sauce at the table.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something hearty, full of character, and ready in under 30 minutes, Simple Chakalaka is your new go-to. Every bite bursts with color and warmth, and you’ll love how easy it is to make your own. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!
Print
Simple Chakalaka Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
A flavorful and spicy South African vegetable relish, Chakalaka is a hearty dish made with a combination of vegetables and spices, perfect as a side dish for rice, pap, meats, or bread.
Ingredients
Vegetable Mix:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Others:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can baked beans in tomato sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetable Mix: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Add onion, sauté until soft. Add bell pepper, garlic, and carrots. Cook for 5 mins.
- Add Spices: Stir in curry powder, paprika, chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
- Simmer: Add chopped tomatoes, simmer for 5–7 mins. Add baked beans, salt, pepper. Simmer for 5 mins.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Notes
- Chakalaka pairs well with pap, rice, grilled meats, or bread.
- Flavors develop if kept overnight in the fridge.
- For more heat, add chili or peri-peri sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
