18 South African Mealie Cake Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
If you're looking for a taste of authentic South African cuisine, you have to try a traditional mealie cake. This delicious dessert is made from maize meal, also known as mealie meal, and is a staple in many South African households. It's a simple yet satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we'll take you through the steps of making your own South African mealie cake, so you can experience the rich flavors and culture of this beautiful country right in your own home.
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Shallot, Risotto Rice, White Wine, Chicken
If you love the rich and spicy flavors of South African cuisine, then you have to try this unique twist on risotto. Bobotie is a traditional South African dish made with minced meat, spices, and egg custard, and in this recipe, those flavors are incorporated into a creamy and comforting risotto.
The key to making this dish is to slowly cook the onions and spices until they are caramelized and fragrant, adding depth and complexity to the dish. The addition of curry powder, turmeric, and cinnamon give the risotto a warm and spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy rice. Serve it as a side dish or as a main course, either way, it's sure to be a hit.
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Mealie Bread (South African Sweetcorn Bread)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Salted Butter, Eggs, Unbleached All Purpose
This traditional South African bread is a staple in many households, often served alongside a hearty stew or curry. Made with cornmeal, flour, and sweetcorn, this bread has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that is simply irresistible.
Some recipes call for added sugar, but this version uses honey instead, giving it a more natural sweetness. The addition of sweetcorn adds texture and moisture to the bread, making it perfect for dipping into soups and stews. Don't forget to serve this bread warm with a generous slather of butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Mealie Bread (South African Corn Bread)
Main Ingredients: Fresh Corn, All Purpose Flour, Corn Meal, Baking
Similar to the sweetcorn bread, this version of mealie bread is a savory and slightly tangy alternative. Made with buttermilk and cornmeal, this bread has a slightly denser texture and a more pronounced corn flavor.
The addition of corn kernels, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos give this bread a spicy kick, making it perfect for serving with chili or braai (South African barbecue). The best part about this bread is that it's easy to make and can be ready in about an hour, making it perfect for a last-minute addition to any meal.
Milk tart, or melktert in Afrikaans, is a traditional South African dessert that is loved by many. It consists of a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy custard made from milk, eggs, and sugar, with a dusting of cinnamon on top.
The creamy custard filling is what sets this dessert apart from other tarts, and it's surprisingly easy to make. The trick is to gently heat the milk so that it doesn't curdle when mixed with the eggs. Serve this tart chilled for the perfect ending to any South African meal.
This vibrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple in South African cuisine, often served alongside curries or stews. The yellow color comes from the addition of turmeric, which also adds a subtle earthy flavor to the rice.
The rice is cooked with onions, raisins, and bay leaves, giving it a slightly sweet and aromatic taste. Don't be intimidated by the long list of ingredients, as this dish is surprisingly easy to make. Serve it as a side dish to add a pop of color and flavor to any meal.
Piri-piri chicken is a popular dish in many African countries, and South Africa is no exception. This spicy and flavorful chicken is marinated in a sauce made from piri-piri chilies, garlic, and lemon juice, giving it a fiery kick.
The chicken is then grilled or roasted until crispy and tender, and it's often served with a side of rice, salad, or fries. If you can't handle too much heat, you can adjust the amount of chili in the marinade to your liking. Either way, this dish is sure to satisfy any cravings for bold and spicy flavors.
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HOW TO MAKE CHAKALAKA | SOUTH AFRICAN FOOD
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper, Sweet
Chakalaka is a spicy and flavorful relish that is commonly served with bread, pap (a type of porridge), or as a side dish to grilled meats. It's made from a variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, onions, carrots, and beans, which are then simmered with chili, curry powder, and garlic for a burst of flavor.
This versatile dish can be served hot or cold, and it's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. You can also add meat or sausage to make a heartier version, or keep it vegetarian for a healthy and delicious side dish.
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SOUTH AFRICAN PANNEKOEK
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Ice Cold Water, Vegetable Oil, Salt, All Purpose
Pannekoek, or pancakes, are a popular breakfast or teatime treat in South Africa. These thin and delicate pancakes are similar to crepes and can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings.
The batter is made from milk, eggs, and flour, and it's flavored with a touch of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness. The pancakes are then cooked in a hot pan until golden brown and served with a drizzle of syrup or a sprinkle of sugar and lemon juice. It's a simple yet delicious treat that is loved by both young and old.
This traditional South African dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of the country. It's made with minced meat, onions, spices, and egg custard, and it's often served with yellow rice, chutney, and sambal (a spicy relish).
The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish is what makes it so unique and delicious. The addition of raisins, almonds, and bay leaves adds texture and depth to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. It may sound like a strange combination, but trust us, it's a winning recipe.
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South African Boerie Roll
Main Ingredients: Hoagie Rolls, Onions, Diced Tomatoes With Juice, Diced
A boerie roll, or boerewors roll in Afrikaans, is a popular street food in South Africa. It consists of a grilled sausage made from beef, pork, and spices, served on a bun with a variety of toppings.
The sausage is often served with chutney, mustard, or tomato relish, and some vendors even offer a variety of sauces and toppings to choose from. It's a quick and delicious meal that is perfect for enjoying on the go or at a braai with friends and family.
Crunchies, or crispies in Afrikaans, are a popular cookie in South Africa. They are similar to oatmeal cookies but have a crisper texture and a slightly caramelized flavor.
The addition of golden syrup, coconut, and almonds gives these cookies a unique and delicious flavor. They are perfect for dunking in a cup of tea or coffee, and they also make a great snack to pack for a hike or road trip.
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Crunchies (South African)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Golden Syrup, Baking Soda, Granulated Sugar
This version of mealie bread adds a twist by incorporating sundried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs into the batter. The result is a flavorful and slightly tangy bread that is perfect for serving with soups, stews, or as a snack on its own.
The sundried tomatoes add a burst of umami flavor, while the feta cheese adds a creamy and salty element to the bread. It's a great way to elevate a simple bread recipe and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.
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MIELIE BREAD with SUNDRIED TOMATOES
Main Ingredients: Self Raising Flour, Canderel, Salt, Rosemary, Thyme
Frikkadel, or meatballs in Afrikaans, are a popular dish in South African households. These beef, pork, or lamb meatballs are often served with a variety of sauces or gravies and are a comforting and hearty meal.
The key to making great frikkadel is to use a combination of meats, as it adds depth of flavor and keeps the meat moist and tender. Some recipes also call for bread or oats to be added to the meat mixture for added texture and flavor. Serve these meatballs with mashed potatoes or rice for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Curry is a staple in South African cuisine, and this chicken curry recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of the country. It's made with chicken, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices like curry powder, cumin, and coriander.
The key to making a great curry is to slowly cook the onions and spices until they are fragrant and caramelized, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Serve this curry with rice, roti, or bread for a hearty and flavorful meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
Meatloaf may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of South African cuisine, but this recipe is a favorite in many households. Made with ground beef, pork, or lamb, this meatloaf is flavored with onions, spices, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for a savory and hearty dish.
The meatloaf is then topped with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze that adds a nice contrast to the savory meat. Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a side salad for a comforting and delicious meal that will remind you of home.
Biltong is a type of dried and cured meat that is similar to beef jerky but has a more intense flavor. This traditional South African snack is often made with beef, game, or ostrich meat, and it's marinated in a mixture of vinegar, spices, and salt before being air-dried.
The result is a flavorful and chewy snack that is perfect for on-the-go or as a protein-packed addition to any meal. Biltong is also a popular snack to enjoy while watching sports or having a drink with friends, making it a true South African favorite.
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South African Biltong
Main Ingredients: Beef, Malt, Salt, Black Pepper, Coriander Seeds, Brown
Venison, or game meat, is a popular protein in South African cuisine, and this casserole recipe is a great way to enjoy it. The venison is slow-cooked with onions, garlic, vegetables, and red wine, giving it a rich and hearty flavor.
The key to making this dish is to cook the meat until it is tender and falls off the bone, making it perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal on a chilly day. Serve this casserole with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete and delicious meal.
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South African Venison Casserole
Main Ingredients: White Bread, Milk, Onions, Butter, Garlic Cloves
This unique and flavorful dish is a great way to enjoy salmon for breakfast or brunch. The salmon is marinated in a mixture of spices, lemon juice, and yogurt, giving it a tangy and spicy flavor.
The salmon is then baked until flaky and served alongside scrambled eggs, avocados, and tomatoes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great way to start your day.
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~south African Spiced Salmon & Eggs~
Main Ingredients: Salmon Filet, Sea Salt, Seasoning, Canola Cooking
This recipe is a more traditional version of bobotie, with a few key differences from the previous one. It calls for beef or lamb mince, curry powder, and apricot jam, giving it a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor.
The dish is then topped with a layer of egg custard, which adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. Serve this dish with a side of yellow rice and chutney for a complete and delicious meal that will transport your taste buds to South Africa.
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Traditional South African Bobotie
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onions, Finely Chopped Garlic, Beef Mince
This recipe is a more traditional version of bobotie, with a few key differences from the previous one. It calls for beef or lamb mince, curry powder, and apricot jam, giving it a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor.
The dish is then topped with a layer of egg custard, which adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. Serve this dish with a side of yellow rice and chutney for a complete and delicious meal that will transport your taste buds to South Africa.
Ingredients
To make a delicious South African mealie cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
Mealie meal: This is the star ingredient of the dish and can be found in most grocery stores in the international or baking aisle. It is a finely ground maize flour that gives the cake its unique texture and flavor.
Sugar: This is used to sweeten the cake and can be adjusted according to your preference.
Baking powder: This will help the cake rise and give it a light and fluffy texture.
Eggs: They act as a binding agent and add richness to the cake.
Milk: This adds moisture to the cake and helps create a smooth batter.
Butter: This adds flavor and richness to the cake.
Vanilla extract: This is optional but adds a lovely aroma to the cake.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
To start, mix the mealie meal, sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add them to the dry ingredients. Next, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract and mix everything together until you have a smooth batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Let it cool and Serve
Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Final Thoughts
South African mealie cake is a true representation of the country's diverse and flavorful cuisine. Its simple yet delicious taste will leave you wanting more. It's also a great recipe to make with friends and family, as it is easy and enjoyable to prepare. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a taste of South Africa with every bite.
