Zanele's Hearty Chakalaka Stir-Fry
Zanele's Hearty Chakalaka Stir-Fry is a vibrant and spicy vegetable dish that brings the rich flavors of South African cuisine to your table. This recipe, gifted to me by my dear friend Ntombizanele Sokupa from the amaXhosa community, showcases an array of colorful vegetables such as onions, carrots, and bell peppers, all cooked in a savory blend of spices. Traditionally served with Pap (Recipe #309584) or alongside grilled meats, it also shines as a stand-alone dish or paired with crusty bread. This hearty stir-fry is perfect for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Thanks to Zanele for sharing this treasure of South African culinary heritage!
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
onions
3 (diced)
carrots
3 (diced)
green bell peppers
2 (diced)
tomatoes
3 (diced)
curry powder
to taste (N/A)
salt
to taste (N/A)
pepper
to taste (N/A)
green chili
optional (sliced)
vegetable bouillon cube
1 (crumbled)
chili powder
1 teaspoon (N/A)
oil
1-2 tablespoons (for frying)
water
1/4 cup (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell peppers, and sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2
Stir in the diced carrots and tomatoes, allowing the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
3
Sprinkle in the curry powder, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, add the green chili at this stage.
4
Crumble the vegetable bouillon cube into the mixture and pour in the water. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until all vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
6
Adjust seasoning as necessary before serving warm.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
1.25g
Protein
3.75g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zanele's Hearty Chakalaka Stir-Fry?
It is a vibrant and spicy South African vegetable dish gifted by Ntombizanele Sokupa from the amaXhosa community.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses oil and vegetable bouillon.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 80 calories per serving.
What are the main vegetables used in this stir-fry?
The main vegetables are onions, carrots, green bell peppers, and tomatoes.
What is the fat content per serving?
The dish contains 2.5g of fat.
How much fiber is in one serving?
There are 3.75g of fiber per serving.
What is the protein content of the dish?
Each serving contains 1.25g of protein.
How many onions are needed?
You will need 3 diced onions.
How many carrots are required?
The recipe calls for 3 diced carrots.
How many green bell peppers should I use?
You will need 2 diced green bell peppers.
How many tomatoes are used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 3 diced tomatoes.
What can I serve with Chakalaka?
It is traditionally served with Pap, grilled meats, or crusty bread.
Is the green chili mandatory?
No, the sliced green chili is optional for those who want extra heat.
What spices are included in the dish?
The dish uses curry powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
How long should I sauté the onions and peppers?
Sauté them for approximately 5-7 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
How long does the mixture need to simmer?
The mixture should simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
How much water is added to the recipe?
You should add 1/4 cup of water.
What type of bouillon is used?
The recipe uses 1 crumbled vegetable bouillon cube.
How much chili powder is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of chili powder.
What kind of oil should be used?
You should use 1-2 tablespoons of oil suitable for frying.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, vegetable-based side dish.
Should I cover the skillet while simmering?
Yes, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low while it simmers.
Who shared this recipe?
The recipe was shared by Zanele (Ntombizanele Sokupa).
What heat setting is used for the initial sautéing?
The oil should be heated over medium heat.
When do I add the seasoning?
Sprinkle in the spices after the carrots and tomatoes have softened.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 12 ingredients in this recipe.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding salt and pepper to taste.
Is this a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and a side dish.
How should the carrots be prepared?
The carrots should be diced.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No sugar is listed in the ingredients or nutritional data.