South Africans are known their unique culinary tastes – which makes perfect sense given that the country itself is a mixed pot of various cultures and ethnicities.
Each one of SA’s unique cultures have their own signature dishes, from Walkie Talkies to delicious bobotie – here are a few yummy and er, weird South African dishes.
1) Koeksister
A koeksister or “koeksuster’, as it’s also known, is long been one of South Africa’s favourite sweet treats. The name is derived from the Dutch word “koek” which means cake or biscuit in English.
It can be served either as a ball of dough rolled in coconut or as plaited dough fried in oil and then dipped in sugar syrup. It’s no wonder this sugary delight is so well loved!
2) Afval
Not for the faint-hearted South African – the name of this dish quite literally translates to ‘waste’.
But although it’s made using parts of the animal which would usually be tossed away – traditionally a lambs stomach lining and trotter – there are many who consider it a culinary delight.
Afval is served with either curry or stew and is an especially popular item on restaurant menus in the Northern Karoo.
3) Milk tart or Melktert, as it’s called by most, is the perfect accompaniment to Sunday afternoon tea – the one that comes after enjoying a hearty Sunday lunch with your family.
Borrowed from the Dutch but perfected by the Cape Malays, the traditional milk tart consists of a pastry crust, a creamy milk filling topped with a generous sprinkling of cinnamon powder. Mmmm!
4) Biltong
Initially used by our forefathers – who had no refrigerators – as a way to cure and preserve meats, this match-day staple is now as engrained into South African culture as the art of braai or the Vuvuzela.
Different types of meat are used to create this delicious snack which is essentially bits of raw, dried-out meat cured with a blend of salt and spices.
5) Bunny Chow Also referred to as a ‘bunny’ – in areas where they’re extremely popular – this strange meal is definitely one of South Africa’s favourite fast food dishes.
The hollowed out loaf of bread filled with spoonful’s of flavourful, fiery curry originates from the Indian community who live predominantly in Kwa-Zulu Natal.
6) Walkie Talkies Although South Africans consume a variety of weird and wonderful things this outlandish snack could be the strangest gastronomical delight of all.
Chicken feet, or Walkie Talkies as they’re commonly known, are traditionally enjoyed as an afternoon snack in townships. To prepare this high-protein, low-fat meal the chicken feet are placed in boiling water, to remove the skin, then seasoned and cooked to perfection.
Most street food vendors serve this crispy delicacy with pap (porridge).
7) Bobotie
Crowned the official signature dish of South Africa, it’s only fitting that this hearty classic is saved for last.
This Sunday lunch staple consists of curried mince (lamb or beef), topped with whipped eggs – baked to golden perfection in the oven.
Sources: South Africa.net, Home food and travel People.com
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