South Africa itself is a popular tourist destination with an array of wildlife to crystal clear oceans and sandy deserts it is no wonder that so many travellers pick South Africa as their next travel destination.
As you’ll see in our list below a few of the traditional South African dishes using indigenous cooking methods like preserving and curing as refrigerators were bought the country by the Europeans.
1. Biltong
The indigenous South African tribes started preserving meat from native animals like springbok, kudu and ostrich many thousands of years ago. Biltong is traditionally flavoured with coriander seeds and pepper and makes for a great high protein snack. If you’re a fan of beef jerky then chances are biltong is for you.
2. Boerewors
Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage made from beef, lamb or pork. Served in an iconic coiled shape, similar to the Cumberland sausage you can’t say you’ve eaten South African food until you’ve tried this.
3. Malva pudding
The Dutch brought the malva pudding to African shores, described as South Africa’s sticky toffee pudding it is a baked sponge apricot pudding with a rich cream sauce.
4. Chakalaka
Made from whatever is in season, usually, onions, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, beans and spices, Chakalaka is a spicy and sweet South African vegetable relish. It is a staple in South African homes you’ll always find a jar on the table.
5. Pap
Pap is a thick cornmeal ‘porridge’, similar to American grits which are used all over Africa at BBQ houses to soak up thick, saucy stews and curries.
South African Restaurants in Australia
Want to get a taste of South African food without setting foot in the kitchen? Here are some of the best South African restaurants in Australia.
The Lucky Tsotsi
Location: Darlinghurst, Sydney
A fusion of Irish and South African food, yes you read that correctly The Lucky Tsotsi is one of Sydney’s best South African eateries. The menu is filled with shared meals that pack a spicy punch. Our pick is the crushed corn beans in a tomato stew.
Price: single dishes from $5.90
Squires Loft Grill Room
Location: Melbourne CBD
Price: from $30
With wholesome South African meals that are filled with flavour, it’s no wonder than Squires has a rating of 4.2 on Zomato. You can’t go past the shared platter with boerewors of course!
Africola
Location: Adelaide
One of Adelaide’s favourite South African restaurants, Africola boasts a vibrant menu with something for just about everyone. Our pick is the Goat’s Curb Labneh with pickled shallots and garlic chips.
