Chakalaka

Chakalaka
South-Africa
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 large carrots, grated
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) baked beans in tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1-2 fresh green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the chopped green and red bell peppers, and sauté for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.

Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, salt, and black pepper.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 5 minutes.

Add the Beans and Chilies

Stir in the baked beans in tomato sauce and chopped green chilies (if using).

Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the chakalaka and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.

Serve

Transfer the chakalaka to a serving dish.

Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your meal!