South African cuisine is a diverse and flavorful mix of indigenous African, Indian, and European influences. With a wealth of fresh produce, seafood, and meats available, South Africa has developed a unique culinary heritage that is well worth exploring. Here are some of the best South African foods to try.
Bobotie
Bobotie is a delicious South African meat dish made with spiced minced beef or lamb, raisins, and a creamy egg custard topping. It is often served with yellow rice, sambals, and chutneys. It is said to have originated from the Cape Malay community in Cape Town, who were skilled in blending spices and flavors from different cuisines.
Biltong
Biltong is a type of dried meat that is a South African snack staple. It is made by curing slices of meat (often beef or game meat) with vinegar and spices, then drying them in a warm, dry place. Biltong has a distinctive flavor and texture, and is often enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meat platter.
Bunny Chow
Bunny Chow is a popular Durban street food that consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. It is believed to have originated in Durban’s Indian community, who created the dish as a portable lunch for factory workers. The curry is often made with chicken, lamb, or beans, and is spiced with a mix of Indian and African spices.
Boerewors
Boerewors is a type of sausage that is a South African favorite. It is made from a mixture of beef, pork, and spices, such as coriander, nutmeg, and cloves. Boerewors is often grilled over an open flame, and is served with tomato sauce, mustard, or chutney.
Pap and Wors
Pap and Wors is a traditional South African dish that is enjoyed by many. Pap is a porridge-like dish made from maize meal and served with a variety of different dishes. Wors, which is Afrikaans for sausage, is often grilled over an open flame and served with pap. The dish is often enjoyed at braais, which are South African barbecues.
Chakalaka
Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish that is often served as a side dish. It is made from a mixture of onions, tomatoes, peppers, and spices such as curry powder, cumin, and chili. Chakalaka is a staple of many South African households and is often served with pap and meat.
Melktert
Melktert is a traditional South African dessert that is similar to a custard tart. The filling is made from milk, sugar, flour, and eggs, and is flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. The tart is often topped with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg and is served chilled.
Vetkoek
Vetkoek is a traditional South African pastry that is made from fried dough. It is often filled with a variety of savory fillings such as mince, cheese, or curried vegetables. Vetkoek is a popular snack food in South Africa and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
Bobotjie Samosas
Bobotjie Samosas are a fusion of two traditional South African dishes – bobotjie and samosas. They are filled with a mixture of minced meat, curry spices, and onions, then fried until crispy. They are often served as a snack or appetizer and are a great way to try two classic South African dishes in one.
Amarula Don Pedro
Amarula Don Pedro is a delicious dessert cocktail that is made with Amarula cream