Soups & stews · Thailand

Chakalaka (South African Vegetable Stew)

Name: Chakalaka (South African Vegetable Stew)
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4–6
Cuisine: Thailand
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil, or as needed; 3 medium onions, diced; 1 teaspoon curry powder, or to taste; 1 teaspoon chile powder; 2 small Thai green chiles, chopped; 3 medium carrots, diced; 3 medium tomatoes, diced; 2 medium green bell peppers, diced; ¼ cup water; 1 cube vegetable bouillon, crumbled; Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Chakalaka is a spicy South African vegetable relish made from beans, peppers, carrots, and tomatoes. It is often served as a side dish with bread, pap (maize porridge), or meat. Chakalaka is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables and spices depending on regional or personal preference.

Published October 15, 2026

EST. TOTAL TIME40 min

DIFFICULTYMedium

SERVES4–6

Time and difficulty are editorial estimates; allow extra time for your equipment and experience.

Jump to recipe ↓

What you’ll need

Tap an ingredient as you get it ready.

Let’s make it

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Stir in the curry powder, chile powder, and chopped chile peppers. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the chopped tomatoes, grated carrots, and diced bell peppers. Stir well.

Step 5

Add the crumbled bouillon cube and water. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Stir in the baked beans and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, uncovered, until the mixture thickens.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Chakalaka (South African Vegetable Stew)

What you’ll need

Let’s make it

More to savor

Asaro

Chicken Vindaloo

Arepas: The Corn-Based Bread Made for Filling and Sharing

Cassoulet: A Slow-Cooked Story from Southern France