Traditional South African Foods Every Visitor Should Try

South Africa’s cuisine shows how rich and diverse the cultural diversity is. Food in the country has combined indigenous African traditions with some influences from Dutch settlers and Indian immigrants. The result is an excellent food culture with history and customs of  many ethnic groups. Here are traditional foods that visitors can enjoy in South Africa.

Pap

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Pap is made from maize meal and water. It can be prepared as a soft porridge or side dish. Pap is taken with meat and vegetables. The dish is a staple among the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele peoples. It is enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations.

Bobotie

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Bobotie is made from baked minced meat. It tastes better with yellow rice and chutney. The dish comes from the Cape Malay community of the Western Cape. The origin is lined with Asian culinary traditions.

Chakalaka

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Chakalaka is a vegetable food made from tomatoes and onions. The dish comes from the townships around Johannesburg. It is enjoyed by various communities in South Africa. Chakalaka is a popular side dish in the country.

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Bunny Chow

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Bunny Chow is a street food made from bread filled with curry. The dish is common among Durban’s Indian community in KwaZulu Natal. Descendants of Indian labourers developed Bunny Chow as a  meal that could be carried easily. It is enjoyed by South Africans  and remains a choice for those who love spicy flavours.

Umngqusho

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Umngqusho is made from samp and sugar beans cooked together until it becomes soft . It is an important part of South African cuisine. The dish is loved by the Xhosa people of the Eastern Cape. Umngqusho became popular because it was said to be one of Nelson Mandela’s favourite meals.

Biltong

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Biltong is made from beef and game meat. It tastes better when seasoned with vinegar. The origins of biltong are the Southern African communities and early European settlers. Biltong is a good snack for road trips and sporting events.