If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, textures, and a little touch of heat, then this Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe is just what you need. Chakalaka is a beloved South African relish that combines sweet, smoky, and spicy notes, and when paired with comforting baked beans, it becomes a hearty, colorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to South African cuisine or searching for a fresh twist on bean dishes, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that will soon become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a unique role. From the crunchy vegetables to aromatic spices and the hearty beans, every element blends to create a dish full of character and color.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essentials for sautéing and adding a silky richness.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Builds a flavorful and slightly sweet base to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds crispness and a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for aromatic depth and zest.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Gives a fragrant, warm spice that brightens flavors.
- 2 large carrots, grated: Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant orange hues.
- 1–2 teaspoons curry powder (mild or hot): Customize the heat level to your liking while infusing warm spice.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky undertone without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth that ties the spices together.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): For those who love a fiery kick in their chakalaka.
- 1 (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes: Provides a luscious tomato base that simmers down to a thick sauce.
- 1 (15 oz) can baked beans in tomato sauce: The hearty centerpiece that makes this dish uniquely satisfying.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors beautifully.
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a burst of green to brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and gently cook it until it becomes soft and translucent, about five minutes. This slow cooking softens the onion’s natural sweetness, setting a tender and flavorful foundation for the chakalaka.
Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Curry Powder
Next, stir in the minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and your chosen amount of curry powder. Let these fragrant ingredients cook together for about one minute. This step unlocks the essential spices’ aromas, creating the signature warm and spicy scent that is so inviting.
Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables
Add the diced green and red bell peppers, along with the grated carrots, into the pot. Give everything a good stir and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften a bit but still maintain some bite. Their natural crunch and sweetness perfectly balance the dish’s spices.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the paprika, ground cumin, and chili flakes if you’re using them. These spices add depth, a subtle smoky quality, and, if desired, a vivid spicy heat that makes this dish truly unforgettable. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices coat all the veggies nicely.
Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes
Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and mix well. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This simmering allows the tomatoes to break down, thickening the sauce and melding the flavors into one harmonious blend.
Step 6: Add Baked Beans and Final Seasoning
Finally, stir in the baked beans in tomato sauce. Season everything with salt and black pepper to your preference. Let the chakalaka simmer an additional five minutes so the flavors marry together beautifully. Remove the pot from heat and scatter chopped cilantro on top if you like that fresh herbal note.
How to Serve Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe
Garnishes
To really make the presentation pop, chopped fresh cilantro is a fantastic choice, providing a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, spicy beans. You could also consider a dollop of cooling yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to lift the flavors further.
Side Dishes
This chakalaka pairs wonderfully with traditional South African pap (a coarse maize meal porridge), steamed white rice, or even crusty artisan bread to soak up every last bit of the sauce. Grilled meats like boerewors sausage or chicken also make excellent companions to this vibrant dish if you want a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve chakalaka in small bowls as part of a South African-inspired tapas spread alongside other relishes and dips. You can also layer it as a hearty filling for wraps or stuff it into baked sweet potatoes for a colorful, nutritious lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chakalaka keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze chakalaka in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chakalaka gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of water if it seems too thick. Microwave reheating works well too; just cover loosely and heat in short bursts until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spice level in this Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish milder or hotter by adjusting the amount of curry powder and chili flakes. Start with less if you prefer mild, and add more gradually to suit your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and gluten-free, making it inclusive for a wide range of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the chakalaka?
Definitely! Traditional chakalaka sometimes includes cabbage, green beans, or extra carrots. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition and texture.
What can I serve with chakalaka besides baked beans?
Chakalaka is versatile—it pairs perfectly with pap, rice, bread, or grilled meats. It also works well as a condiment alongside other stews or braais (barbecues).
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, this Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe takes about 40 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and roughly 25 minutes cooking time—perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures. Its vibrant colors and bold spices bring warmth to the table, making it a perfect dish to share with family and friends. Whether you’re seeking a new side dish or a comforting main, I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the lively, spicy spirit of South Africa in your own kitchen.
Print
Spicy South African Chakalaka with Baked Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South African
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Chakalaka is a flavorful South African relish made with a medley of sautéed vegetables, spices, and baked beans, perfect as a side dish to accompany pap, rice, grilled meats, or bread. This vibrant vegan and gluten-free dish combines sweet peppers, grated carrots, and spicy curry flavors to create a versatile, hearty, and nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 large carrots, grated
Spices and Seasonings
- 1–2 teaspoons curry powder (mild or hot, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Canned Goods
- 1 (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can baked beans in tomato sauce
Garnish
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions: Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add aromatics and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and curry powder; cook for 1 minute until fragrant to release their flavors.
- Cook vegetables: Add the diced green and red bell peppers and grated carrots to the skillet. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
- Incorporate spices: Mix in the paprika, ground cumin, and, if using, chili flakes to give the dish its characteristic warmth.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add baked beans: Stir in the baked beans in tomato sauce, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through and blend the tastes.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Chakalaka can be served hot or cold, making it versatile for different meals.
- Pairs beautifully with pap (maize meal), rice, grilled meats, or bread.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of curry powder and chili flakes according to your preference.
- For variation, you can add cabbage, green beans, or extra carrots to the mixture.
