Chakalaka (South African Vegetable Stew)
Chakalaka is a spicy South African vegetable relish made from beans, peppers, carrots, and tomatoes. It is often served as a side dish with bread, pap (maize porridge), or meat. Chakalaka is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables and spices depending on regional or personal preference.

Before you start
A quick setup makes the method easier to follow and keeps important steps from being missed.
Preparation checklist
- Read all 7 method steps from beginning to end.
- Measure and arrange all 11 listed ingredients.
- Keep the recipe open and follow each step in order; the source does not state a total time.
Recipe notes & preparation tips
Chakalaka can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
Grated cabbage or green beans can be added for extra variety.
It can be served hot or cold, depending on preference.
Adapted from the source recipe's notes.Method
- 01
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- 02
Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- 03
Stir in the curry powder, chile powder, and chopped chile peppers. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 04
Add the chopped tomatoes, grated carrots, and diced bell peppers. Stir well.
- 05
Add the crumbled bouillon cube and water. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- 06
Stir in the baked beans and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, uncovered, until the mixture thickens.
- 07
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Ready to serve
Serve the dish as directed and enjoy it while it is at its best.
Bon appétit — enjoy your meal!Source & licence
This recipe was adapted and reformatted from Wikibooks Cookbook . Text: CC BY-SA 4.0. Image: CC BY 2.0, credited to philipp from cape town, south africa; view original image record .



