18 South African Tomato Gravy Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 5, 2024
South African cuisine is a beautiful blend of diverse cultures and flavors, resulting in a unique and vibrant culinary experience. One dish that truly embodies this fusion of flavors is the South African tomato gravy. This rich and tangy gravy is a staple in many South African households and is often served with traditional dishes like pap, stews, and meat dishes. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and ingredients of this delicious tomato gravy recipe, and how you can make it at home to add a taste of South Africa to your meals.
South African Cheese, Grilled Onion & Tomato Panini...
Main Ingredients: Scallions, White Bread, Sharp White Cheddar, Tomato
If you're looking for a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, try this South African version. It features a delicious combination of cheese, grilled onions, and tomatoes, all pressed between two slices of crusty panini bread. The cheese melts into gooey perfection, while the onions and tomatoes add a burst of flavor. This is comfort food at its best, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a quick weeknight dinner.
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Tomato Gravy
Main Ingredients: Bacon Drippings, All Purpose Flour, Tomato Paste
This hearty tomato gravy is a staple in many South African homes. It's essentially a thick, chunky tomato sauce that is often served with breakfast dishes like eggs and sausages. The key to making it extra delicious is using ripe, juicy tomatoes, along with a touch of spicy chili powder for a kick of heat. Serve it over biscuits, toast, or even rice for a satisfying meal any time of day.
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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 vegetable relish that is a popular side dish in South Africa. It's made with a variety of veggies, including carrots, bell peppers, and beans, and is flavored with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander. It's easy to make and can be served as a side or even as a topping for burgers and hot dogs. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their South African food repertoire.
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Creamy Tomato Gravy
Main Ingredients: Bacon Fat, Diced Onion, Garlic, Salt, Freshly Ground
This creamy tomato gravy is a true comfort food classic. It's perfect for a chilly evening, served over mashed potatoes or pasta. The secret to the creaminess is a touch of heavy cream, which adds a luxurious texture to the tangy tomato sauce. Make sure to use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano for an extra burst of flavor.
Frikkadel, or South African meatballs, are a staple in many households. They are made with a combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, then fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These delicious meatballs are often served with a side of sweet and tangy chutney, making them a perfect appetizer or main course.
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Southern Homestyle Tomato Gravy
Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Butter Fat, All Purpose Flour, Minced
This classic Southern-style tomato gravy is a staple in many homes in South Africa. It's made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and bacon, and is often served over biscuits or grits. The bacon adds a smoky flavor to the tangy tomato sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying dish for any meal of the day.
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How To Make Delicious South African Bunny Chow!
Main Ingredients: White Bread, Olive Oil, Garlic, Ginger, Thai Chilis
Bunny chow is a popular street food in South Africa that is essentially a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a delicious curry. The traditional version is made with lamb, but you can also use chicken or beef. The key to making this dish extra flavorful is using a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. Serve it with a side of homemade chutney for a truly authentic experience.
This Southern-style tomato gravy is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dishes. It's made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and a touch of sweet honey for a unique twist. Serve it over biscuits, rice, or even grilled chicken for a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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South African Geel Rys (Yellow Rice) with Tomato Salad
Main Ingredients: Long Grain White Rice, Water, Butter, Ground Turmeric
Geel Rys, or yellow rice, is a staple in many South African homes. It's made with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, which give it a unique and delicious flavor. This dish is often served with a side of fresh tomato salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful rice.
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South African Boerie Roll
Main Ingredients: Hoagie Rolls, Onions, Diced Tomatoes With Juice, Diced
The boerie roll is a popular South African street food that is essentially a grilled sausage served in a soft roll. The sausage is often made with beef or a combination of beef and pork, and is flavored with a blend of spices like paprika, garlic, and coriander. Top it with your favorite condiments, like mustard and onions, for a delicious and easy meal.
Bobotie is a traditional South African dish that is made with minced meat, spices, and a custard-like topping. It's a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a Sunday family dinner. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, along with the creamy topping, makes this dish a must-try for any food lover.
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Skillet Burgers with Tomato Gravy
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic, Tomatoes, Water, Dried Chile, Kosher
If you're looking for a unique twist on the classic burger, try this South African version. It features juicy beef patties served with a tangy tomato gravy and topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese. The gravy adds a delicious burst of flavor to the burger, making it a must-try for any burger lover.
This Southern-style tomato gravy is a classic dish that is often served with breakfast dishes like eggs and grits. It's made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and savory bacon for a delicious and hearty sauce that will keep you coming back for more. Serve it with your favorite breakfast foods for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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South African Inspired Shakshuka
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Carrots, Diced Tomatoes, Kosher
Shakshuka is a popular dish in many Middle Eastern countries, but this version is inspired by South African flavors. It's made with a spicy tomato sauce, along with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy and creamy element. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick and easy dinner option.
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Thai Pork & Tomato Gravy noodles
Main Ingredients: Lettuce Leaves, Vegetable Oil, Rice Noodles, Dark Soy
This Thai-inspired dish combines the tangy flavors of tomato gravy with the bold and spicy flavors of Thai cuisine. The result is a delicious and satisfying noodle dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Add crispy vegetables and tender pork for a complete and flavorful meal.
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Paneer Capsicum In Tomato Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turmeric Powder, Red Chilly Powder, Cumin Powder
This vegetarian dish features creamy paneer cheese and colorful bell peppers in a tangy and flavorful tomato gravy. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a hit with both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Serve it with rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
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South African Bobotie-Spiced Risotto
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Shallot, Risotto Rice, White Wine, Chicken
This unique risotto dish is inspired by the flavors of South African bobotie. It's made with a combination of fragrant spices, along with ground beef and creamy risotto. The result is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
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Frikkadel – Delicious South African Braised Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Plum Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic Cloves
This dish takes traditional meatballs to a whole new level. The meatballs are braised in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, making them extra tender and juicy. Serve them over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting and delicious meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
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Braaibroodjie (South African Barbeque Sandwich)
Main Ingredients: White Bread, Butter, Chutney, Sharp White Cheddar
This unique take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich features a variety of flavorful fillings, including cheese, chutney, and sliced tomatoes, all pressed between two slices of bread and toasted on the grill. The result is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick lunch.
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Braaibroodjie (South African Grilled Cheese Sandwich)
Main Ingredients: Onion, Sliced Tomatoes, Mango Chutney, Bread, Cheese
This is a simpler version of the braaibroodjie, featuring just cheese and chutney between two slices of bread and toasted on the grill. It's a classic South African snack that is perfect for a quick and easy meal or a delicious accompaniment to a braai (barbecue). Use your favorite cheese and add a touch of spicy chutney for an extra kick of flavor.
The Origin of Tomato Gravy in South Africa
Tomatoes were not native to South Africa, and it is believed that they were introduced to the country by the Portuguese in the 16th century. However, it was not until the late 19th century that tomatoes started to become popular in South African cuisine. The tomato gravy, or "tamatie sous" as it is known in Afrikaans, is said to have originated in the Cape Malay community and has since become a beloved dish among all South Africans.
The Ingredients of South African Tomato Gravy
The key ingredients in tomato gravy are, of course, tomatoes, along with onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The use of spices in this dish reflects the influence of Indian cuisine on South African cooking. This flavorful gravy is also made with a generous amount of butter, which adds a richness and creaminess to the dish.
Making Your Own Tomato Gravy at Home
Making South African tomato gravy at home is simple and requires only a few basic ingredients. Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in butter until they are soft and fragrant. Then add in chopped tomatoes and your choice of spices, and let it simmer until the tomatoes have broken down and the gravy has thickened. You can adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding a little water if needed.
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Now that you have a better understanding of the origins and ingredients of South African tomato gravy, it's time to take your taste buds on a journey and try making this delicious dish at home. Serve it with your favorite South African dishes or use it as a versatile sauce to add flavor to any meal. And don't forget to experiment with different spices and flavors to make this recipe your own. So, go ahead and add some South African flair to your next meal with this flavorful tomato gravy recipe.