Are you tired of the same old meals day in and day out? Do you want to add some excitement and flavour to your kitchen? We’re almost sure we know the answer to these questions, and that’s why this month we’re focusing on how to make local even more lekker, by inspiring you to embrace traditional flavours and share the love of food and home cooking.
South African cuisine is unique, with its rich and diverse cultural heritage, South Africa is home to a wide range of delicious and unique dishes. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best South African flavours and how you can incorporate them into your cooking.
The Power of Local Ingredients
One of the keys to South African cuisine is using fresh, local ingredients. Not only is this good for the local economy, but for the planet too. Why buy grapes from Spain, when the local produce is bursting with flavour and goodness. Whether you’re in the bustling cities of Johannesburg or Cape Town or the rural countryside, you’ll find a bounty of fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. By using local ingredients in your cooking, you’ll not only support small businesses and farmers, but you’ll also enjoy the full, rich flavours of South African cuisine.
Spice it Up with Peri-Peri
With origins in nearby Mozambique, peri-peri has crept into our DNA in Mzansi. The famous chain of Portuguese chicken outlets with the funny marketing is a prime example of how much South African’s love it. If you love spicy food, then you’ll love peri-peri sauce. This fiery condiment is made from chilli peppers, garlic, vinegar, and other spices, and it’s a staple in South African cooking. Whether you’re grilling meat, sautéing vegetables, or just want to add some heat to your favourite dishes, peri-peri sauce is a must-have in your pantry.
Braai Your Way to Deliciousness
In South Africa, a braai (pronounced “br-eye”, for the foreigners) is more than just a backyard barbecue. It’s a social event that brings friends and family together to enjoy delicious food, drinks, and great company. A braai usually involves grilling meat, such as boerewors or tjops! But, it can also include a range of side dishes like pap, chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish), and mieliepap (a cornmeal dish). A braai with friends and family really is the epitome of ‘Locak is lekker’.
Sweet Treats with a Twist
South African desserts are not your typical sweet treats. Instead, they’re often infused with unique and unexpected flavours like rooibos tea, nartjie, and milktart (no need to intro this one!). If you’re looking to add some South African flair to your dessert repertoire, try making a traditional malva pudding or koeksisters. Tant Sannie has a great selection of dessert recipes, so take a look!
Why local is lekker:
• South African cuisine is rich and diverse, with a mix of African, Indian, and European influences.
• Using fresh, local ingredients is key to getting the full, rich flavours of South African dishes.
• Peri-peri sauce is a must-have condiment for anyone who loves spicy food.
• A braai is more than just a barbecue – it’s a social event that brings people together.
• South African desserts are infused with unique and unexpected flavours, like our favourite sweet spice, cinnamon.
South African cuisine is a treasure trove of delicious flavours and dishes that are sure to liven up your kitchen. By using fresh, local ingredients and incorporating some of the spices and flavours we’ve discussed here, you can bring a taste of South Africa into your home. So go ahead, spice things up and enjoy the deliciousness of local South African cuisine! And don’t forget to always have a bottle of Tant Sannie se Melktert Liqueur in the fridge for that last minute after dinner treat