How to Make Chakalaka – A Flavor-Packed South African Relish

Spicy, colorful, and full of character, chakalaka is a South African side dish with serious flair. This fiery relish made with vegetables, beans, and curry spices is a braai essential and township favorite that pairs beautifully with pap, meat, magwinya, or even eggs on toast.

In this post, we’ll break down how to make your own chakalaka from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, spicy flavor

• Versatile and works as a side, spread, or meal base

• Incredibly affordable and easy to make

• A vegan-friendly South African classic

Spicy Chakalaka

What Is Chakalaka?

Chakalaka is a spicy relish originating from Johannesburg’s townships. Originally created by migrant workers, it was made with pantry staples like onions, beans, and canned tomatoes and flavored with curry powder and chili for kick.

A Brief History of Chakalaka

Chakalaka originated in the townships of Johannesburg, where it was developed by migrant mine workers who mixed available pantry staples, like tinned beans, onions, and curry powder, to create a flavorful relish that was easy to prepare and stretch across multiple meals.

Over time, it became a staple across South African households and braais (barbecues), adapting to different regions and spice levels. Today, chakalaka is a symbol of township creativity and resilience, and is loved for its bold flavors, low cost, and endless versatility.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 green pepper, diced

• 2 carrots, grated

• 2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can)

• 1–2 tsp curry powder

• 1 clove garlic (optional)

• 1 can baked beans or red kidney beans

• Salt, pepper, and chili to taste

• Oil for frying

Chakalaka

How to Make Chakalaka

1. Sauté Veggies: Fry onion and garlic until golden, add green pepper and carrots.

   
   

2. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Stir in curry powder, salt, chili, and tomatoes.

   
   

3. Simmer: Let it cook down until soft and saucy.

   
   

4. Add Beans: Mix in beans and cook another 5–10 minutes.

   
   

5. Cool and Serve: Let sit for flavors to meld. Serve warm or cold.

   
   

Serving Suggestions

• With pap or braaied meat

• Stuffed into vetkoek

• Alongside eggs or sausages for breakfast

• As a spicy base for a toastie or wrap

Pap and Wors with Chakalaka

Final Bite

Chakalaka is the dish that turns simple meals into flavor-packed feasts. Spicy, hearty, and full of South African soul, it’s a must-have on any local plate.