10 Must-Try Dishes From South Africa

The realization of this variety and vividness in the culture of South Africa is the culinary traditions that combine the native flavors with the international twist to create a delicious meal. Here are 10 traditional South African food dishes you need to try that are essential for every food lover or tourist to sample.

Bobotie

Bobotie is a spicy minced pork dish covered with a tender egg custard topping. Bobotie is a popular South African food and is served with sweet chutney, rice, and a side of sambals, which adds fresh and bright flavors to the dish.

Bunny Chow

Bunny chow, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy, fragrant curry, is a Durban street food staple. A must-try for spice lovers, the dish is a testament to the strong Indian influence on South African cuisine and can be prepared using lamb, chicken, or beans. 

Boerewors

This coiled sausage is a braai (barbecue) staple. Boerewors is served hot from the braai with pap (maize porridge) and a tangy tomato relish. It is beef or a combination of meats and is seasoned with a combination of coriander, nutmeg, and cloves.

Malva Pudding

Malva pudding, a light, caramelized Dutch sponge cake, is saturated in a buttery, rich syrup and is a comforting dessert. It's the ideal way to finish off a rich South African meal and is often served with custard or ice cream.

Pap and Chakalaka

 Chakalaka is a spicy, healthy, and of course, flavorful vegetable relish that finds its place in almost every South African party. Served with pap, a thick maize porridge that closely resembles polenta, it makes a great meal that goes well with grilled meats.

Braai meat

As much as South Africans are serious about braai culture, outdoor grilling in South Africa is a social event. A traditional braai includes several types of meats like lamb chops, steak, chicken, and boerewors, all grilled over open flames for a smokey, savory treat.

Potjiekos

Hot off an open flame in a three-legged cast-iron pot, the hearty flavors of this stew bring people together. Stacks of spices, vegetables, and meat form the traditional communal dish known as potjiekos.

Droëwors & Biltong

South Africa's version of a dried beef snack, biltong is air-dried and seasoned with a secret mix of spices to create a mouthwateringly chewy and tasty treat. Its sausage-like counterpart, Droëwors, offers the same flavor in dry sausage form, so both are perfect for snacking on the go.

Braaibroodjies

Braaibroodjies, the South African grilled cheese sandwich, is a staple at any braai (barbecue). They are made of buttered bread, cheese, tomato, onion, and chutney, and are cooked over an open flame until golden and crispy. Their smokey, melting flavor is the perfect side dish to any BBQ meal.

Melktert

Melktert, a sweet favorite, is a light, creamy custard tart with a butter crust and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is a popular favorite South African dessert that is light yet filling and goes well with a cup of rooibos tea.

South African food is a beautiful weave of tradition and history, from barbecues that are smokey to curries that are spicy and desserts that are rich. Every bite of these foods, whether you are consuming them in your home or preparing them in your kitchen, tells a different story. What do you most want to try first?