When visiting South Africa, there’s no doubt you’ll end up trying some local cuisine that you will most definitely want to try again. This list includes some of the most authentic and delicious South African meals the country has to offer. In honour of culture and history that makes our country diverse and fascinating, here are some of our favourite traditional South African recipes for you to master at home.
BOBOTIE
This classic dish we all know and love, Bobotie (pronounced ba-bo-tea), is made with ground beef seasoned perfectly and a delicious creamy topping. It is rich, savoury, spicy and aromatic all in one. A comforting meal, full of the flavors of Africa perfect for the whole family! All you really need to top it all off is a splash of Mrs Balls chutney.
Why not try this delicious traditional South African bobotie recipe.

Traditional bobotie
BUNNY CHOW
To get a true flavour of Durban with her signature dish known as bunny chow – containing a quarter loaf of white bread filled with curry – is a must-try in my books! It’s been a local favourite for its heartiness and deliciousness perfect for a chilly day.
Try this Recipe for Chicken Korma Bunny Chow or an old school regular Lamb Bunny Chow.

A Durban Bunny Chow – Jonathan Oberholster
CAPE MALAY CHICKEN CURRY
This Cape Malay chicken curry reflects the unique flavours that have made Malay cooking one of South Africa’s most adored cuisines. Spiced and earthy, this Cape Malay chicken curry will tick all the boxes.
Try this mouthwatering Cape Malay Chicken Curry recipe.
BEER-BRAISED LAMB SHANKS WITH MIELIEPAP
Lamb, a classic springtime meat is the main ingredient to this comforting dish that’s perfect for the chilly, gloomy days between winter and spring. This South African take on lamb shank stew is braised in a mixer of delicious spices and a golden ale served with a traditional creamy maize meal side.
Try this delicious lamb shank recipe

beer braised lamb shanks with mieliepap
SMOORSNOEK
If ever there was a fish to sum up traditional South African food, nothing else does it quite like snoek. Firstly, versatile and easy to cook. Secondly, we love it smoked and folded into a delicious chunky pate. In addition, a favourite way to prepare your snoek that just speaks to our South African souls like a whole snoek braaied on the coals with a delicious apricot jam basting.
Try this recipe for Smoorsnoek or if you’re looking to feed a crowd this classic Braaied Whole Snoek With Apricot Basting

Braaied snoek
If you have some South African dishes that you would like to share do leave them in the comments
and they may just feature in our next round of delicious favourites.