South African Recipes
Discover delicious south african recipes! From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, we've got everything you need to create authentic south african meals at home.
Biltong
This traditional South African snack is made by air-curing spiced beef until perfectly dried. Silverside beef is marinated with vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a fragrant blend of coriander, black pepper, and optional chili. After curing, it is hung to dry slowly, developing deep, savory flavors with a hint of tang. Once sliced, it makes an addictive high-protein snack that keeps well when stored correctly.
Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Known as "Crunchies" in South Africa, these simple oatmeal cookie bars are a true delight. They have an incredible nutty flavor and a satisfyingly crisp texture, making them the perfect treat for any time of day. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a sweet dessert. They are easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast!
Peppermint Crisp Pudding
A beloved South African classic, this no-bake dessert is incredibly easy to make and impossible to resist. Layers of crispy cookies, a silky-smooth caramel and cream mixture, and a generous amount of crunchy peppermint crisp chocolate create a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s the perfect treat to prepare ahead of time and is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
Crepe Pancakes with Caramel and Banana
These pancakes are more like delicate, thin crepes, perfect for filling with rich and sweet toppings. This recipe creates a velvety batter that cooks into light, pliable pancakes ready to be filled with gooey caramel and fresh banana slices. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a simple yet luxurious dessert that feels like a treat from a Parisian café.
Boerewors Burger with Avocado, Bacon & Peppadew
Take your burger game to a whole new level with a South African twist! This unique recipe replaces the traditional beef patty with a flavorful boerewors patty, a South African sausage known for its bold, spicy flavor. Topped with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a pop of tangy peppadew, this burger is an explosion of textures and tastes. It's a truly gourmet experience that comes together in minutes.
One-Pan Bobotie Casserole
This South African classic brings together fragrant spices, tender beef, and a creamy egg custard topping baked in a single pan. The sweet touch of apricot jam balances the warm curry flavors, while golden raisins add little bursts of sweetness. It’s hearty, comforting, and makes an excellent midweek dinner served with fluffy rice.
Smoked Snoek Pate
This is a wonderfully simple and incredibly flavorful take on a traditional South African pate. Smoked snoek, a firm and oily fish, is transformed into a light and fluffy dip by blending it with a rich and tangy cream cheese mixture. It’s perfect for a party, a light lunch, or a delicious snack. The balance of salty fish with the creamy base and a hint of fresh parsley and zesty lemon is simply irresistible.
Malva Pudding with Cranberries & Ginger
Experience a delightful twist on a classic South African dessert. This Malva pudding is known for its incredible spongy texture and sweet, sticky apricot glaze. With the addition of zesty ginger and tart cranberries, this recipe elevates the traditional comfort food into a dessert with a complex and warming flavor profile that is absolutely irresistible. Best served warm, drenched in its rich, buttery sauce.
Easy Cape Seed Loaf Whole Wheat Bread
This is a South African simple and foolproof whole wheat bread recipe that comes out perfect every time. It’s packed with healthy seeds for a hearty texture and nutty flavor, making it a fantastic staple for your kitchen. The result is a dense, rustic loaf that’s great on its own or toasted to perfection. No need for complex kneading—just a little stirring and patience is all it takes to bake this delicious loaf.
Koeksisters with a Spicy Syrup
Golden plaited dough, deep-fried until crisp and then plunged into an aromatic spiced syrup – this is the South African koeksister at its finest. The syrup, infused with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and citrus, gives each bite a fragrant sweetness with just a whisper of spice. Best enjoyed fresh and slightly sticky, they’re a true indulgence.
Braaibroodjie Jaffles
A twist on the South African braaibroodjie, these jaffles wrap all the goodness of cheese, tomato, and onion inside crisp golden bread cooked in a jaffle iron. Perfectly gooey in the center and smoky from the coals or stove, they’re comfort food at its best.
Muesli Rusks with Oats & Raisins
These delicious rusks are a healthy twist on a classic, packed with hearty oats, a variety of seeds, and dried fruit. The dough comes together in one bowl, making the process simple and straightforward. After baking into a large slab, the rusks are cut into pieces and then slowly dried in a low oven overnight to achieve that perfect, crunchy texture that is so great for dunking in coffee or tea.
Malva Pudding with Ginger & Pears Poached in Rooibos Tea
This recipe gives a classic South African Malva pudding a delightful and unique twist. Tender pears are first poached in a fragrant rooibos tea syrup with warm spices, then nestled into a ginger-infused Malva batter before baking. The result is an incredibly moist and flavorful dessert that combines the traditional, spongy texture of Malva pudding with the spiced, fruity notes of the pears and a hint of ginger.
Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie
This chicken pie is the epitome of comfort food, but with a shortcut that makes it surprisingly easy to prepare. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken means all the hard work is done for you. The rich, creamy filling is loaded with tender chicken, savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and sweet leeks, all brought together in a delicious, well-seasoned sauce. Topped with a flaky puff pastry crust, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit.
Peri Peri Prawns
These pan-fried peri peri prawns are absolutely fantastic, featuring a rich and spicy marinade that gives them an incredible depth of flavor. The prawns are marinated in a bold mixture of peri peri sauce, white wine, garlic, and a hint of fresh chili, then quickly pan-fried to perfection. The final touch of brandy flambé adds a dramatic flair and a subtle, smoky finish to this impressive dish.
Vanilla Amarula Bundt Cake
This is an incredibly moist and decadent Amarula-infused bundt cake that will be a showstopper at any gathering. It starts with a rich, buttery cake batter, which is then brushed with a simple Amarula syrup to add extra moisture and a touch of flavor. The grand finale is a velvety milk chocolate Amarula ganache that takes this dessert to the next level.
Easy Cheese & Sweetcorn Bread
This is a super simple, one-bowl recipe for a moist and savory cheese and sweetcorn bread loaf. It's packed with flavor from sharp cheddar and creamy sweetcorn, making it a perfect side for a hearty meal or a delicious snack on its own. The cayenne pepper adds just a hint of warmth without being overpowering.
Mossbolletjie French Toast with Cottage Cheese & Berries
This mossbolletjie French toast is a South African-inspired breakfast that’s pure bliss on a plate. Thick slices of sweet, anise-scented mossbolletjie bread soak up a cinnamon-spiked custard, then get golden and crispy in the pan. Topped with a creamy whipped vanilla cottage cheese and a tangy mixed berry compote, it’s a perfect balance of indulgent and fresh. Drizzle with maple syrup for a morning treat that feels like a hug!
Chocolate Malva Pudding
This chocolate malva pudding is a South African dream dessert – warm, spongy, and drenched in a fudgy chocolate sauce that soaks right in. It’s rich, decadent, and just the right amount of indulgent, with a deep cocoa flavor that makes every bite irresistible. Bake it fresh, pour on the glossy sauce, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for pure comfort food magic. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing your guests!
Buttermilk Bran Rusks with Raisins and Seeds
These buttermilk bran rusks are a South African delight, packed with nutty All-Bran, sweet raisins, and crunchy seeds. They’re light yet hearty, with a perfect balance of chew and crunch that makes them ideal for dunking in your favorite tea or coffee. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang, while the seeds bring a wholesome twist. Bake, slice, and dry them low and slow for that classic rusk texture that lasts for weeks!
Air Fryer Buttermilk Rusks
These air fryer buttermilk rusks are a South African treasure crunchy, lightly sweet, and perfect for dunking in your morning coffee or tea. Made with toasted milk powder for that nostalgic, caramel-like flavor, they’re even better than Ouma rusks! The air fryer makes the process quicker and easier, giving you perfectly crisp rusks without the long oven drying. Whip up a batch, store them for weeks, and enjoy a taste of home any time!
Yellow Rice with Raisins
This classic South African side dish is beautifully golden from turmeric and warmly scented with cinnamon. Sweet raisins balance the spices, while butter adds a rich finish. Simple to prepare on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or with the absorption method, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with curries, stews, and braised meats.
No-Bake Cremora Tart Squares with Granadilla
These no-bake Cremora tart squares are a South African classic that’s creamy, tangy, and oh-so-easy to make. With a buttery biscuit base, a luscious filling of Cremora and yoghurt, and a vibrant granadilla topping, this dessert is a refreshing crowd-pleaser. Just mix, chill, and serve – no oven needed! Perfect for warm days or when you want a quick, indulgent treat that sets like a dream in the fridge.
Seeded Crunchies
These seeded crunchies are your new go-to snack – crispy, chewy, and loaded with wholesome oats, coconut, and a mix of nutritious seeds. They’re super easy to whip up and strike the perfect balance of sweet and nutty. Whether you like them golden and crisp or a bit softer, they’re a healthier treat that’s great for lunchboxes or afternoon coffee breaks. Customize the texture by adjusting the pan size or bake time!
Slow Braised Oxtail in Red Wine
This slow-braised South African oxtail in red wine is a showstopper – rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The oxtail soaks up a bold mix of red wine, aromatic veggies, and warm spices, creating a deep, savory sauce that’s pure comfort food. Whether you use an oven for that slow, soulful braise or a pressure cooker for faster results, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners. Serve it with creamy mash or pillowy gnocchi for a meal that’ll wow everyone!
Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie
This South African milk tart ruffled phyllo pie is a delightful spin on the Greek galatopita, combining crispy phyllo pastry with a creamy, cinnamon-kissed custard. The ruffled phyllo adds a fun, crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the smooth filling. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that’s ideal for sharing with friends or savoring with a cup of tea. Serve it fresh for the best crunch, and add berries for a pop of color!
Lamb Waterblommetjie Potjie
This hearty Lamb Waterblommetjie Potjie is a beloved South African dish, slow-cooked over a fire for tender lamb and delicate waterblommetjies in a rich, savory broth. The subtle tang of lemon (or wild surings, if you’re feeling adventurous) ties it all together. Perfect for a cozy gathering, this potjie is a soul-warming taste of tradition, best enjoyed with fluffy white rice.
Malva Pudding
This South African malva pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that’s like a hug in a bowl! Infused with a zesty hint of orange, its spongy texture soaks up a rich, buttery sauce for a sweet, indulgent treat. Perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests, this pudding is easy to make and even easier to love. Serve it warm with custard or ice cream for pure bliss!
Bobotie Phyllo Pies
These crispy phyllo triangles are filled with classic South African bobotie – a warmly spiced mince with fruit, chutney, and a silky egg topping. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party tray, each pie brings together flaky pastry and the sweet-savoury balance of bobotie in bite-sized form.
Traditional Crunchies
These classic South African crunchies are the ultimate sweet treat, combining hearty oats, golden syrup, and a toasty coconut crunch. Perfectly golden and buttery, they strike a delightful balance between crispy edges and a chewy center. Whip them up in no time for a nostalgic snack that’s great with a cup of tea or as a lunchbox filler. Adjust the thickness to your liking for extra crispiness or chewiness!
Easy Honey and Ginger Biscuits
These delightful South African ginger biscuits are a timeless treat, blending warm spices with a sweet honey twist. Crispy on the outside with a satisfying chew, they’re perfect for dunking in tea or filling your biscuit tin for a quick snack. The gentle kick of ginger and cinnamon makes these a cozy favorite, and you can tweak the baking time for a softer or crunchier bite. Simple to whip up, they’re a must-try for any home baker!
Buttermilk Rusks
These classic South African buttermilk rusks are crunchy, lightly sweet, and perfect for dunking in your morning coffee or tea. Inspired by the iconic Ouma rusks, this recipe delivers a rich, buttery flavor with a satisfying snap. Bake them golden, dry them low and slow, and enjoy a taste of South African tradition that lasts for weeks!
Bobotie with Yellow Rice
This classic South African Bobotie is a comforting, spiced mince dish baked with a creamy egg topping, bursting with sweet and savory flavors from apricot jam, apples, and fragrant spices. Paired with aromatic yellow rice, it’s a family favorite that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with a taste of South African tradition.
South African Bobotie with Yellow Rice
This classic South African Bobotie is a comforting, spiced mince dish baked with a creamy egg topping, bursting with sweet and savory flavors from apricot jam, apples, and fragrant spices. Paired with aromatic yellow rice, it’s a family favorite that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with a taste of South African tradition.
4-Ingredient Peppermint Crisp Tart
This no-bake South African favourite layers crisp tea biscuits with a caramel-cream filling and shards of Peppermint Crisp chocolate. The biscuits soften into a cake-like texture while the creamy filling and minty crunch create a rich, nostalgic treat perfect for sharing.
Pineapple Fridge Tart
This tropical fridge tart combines a golden coconut crust with a creamy pineapple filling and a rich caramel sauce. The toasted coconut base gives a chewy crunch, while the pineapple and cream mixture adds a light, fruity sweetness. Finished with buttery caramel, it’s a refreshing dessert that balances richness with a burst of citrus and tropical fruit.
Jam Tart
A rustic tart with buttery pastry and a glossy jam filling, inspired by Italian crostata. The lattice top gives it a homely charm, while the sweet and tangy jam contrasts beautifully with the rich crust. It’s simple to make, delicious warm or cold, and perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Classic Cremora Tart
This nostalgic fridge tart is a South African favourite made with Cremora, condensed milk, and lemon juice. The biscuit crust adds crunch while the creamy filling sets into a refreshing citrus-scented dessert. Quick to prepare and best made ahead, it’s perfect for gatherings or an easy weekend treat.
Chana Magaj Fridge Tart
This creative take on the traditional chana magaj combines the nutty, fudgy flavour of roasted chickpea flour and ghee with a creamy fridge tart style dessert. It layers soft, milk-soaked boudoir biscuits with a rich magaj cream, finished with lightly sweetened whipped cream, almonds, and a touch of edible foil for festive sparkle. A make-ahead treat that’s indulgent yet refreshing, perfect for gatherings or a family-style sweet dish.
Rhubarb-and-Custard Tart
To top it all off, beautiful pieces of gently poached rhubarb arranged like jewels, with a drizzle of their own sweet-tart syrup. It's a showstopper that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and spice.
Tenderstem® Broccoli Tart
Unlike its regular counterpart, Tenderstem® stays delightfully tender-crisp from stem to tip, even when baked. We're pairing it with creamy ricotta, salty feta, and flaky puff pastry to create a dish that's simple enough for a weekday meal but sophisticated enough for guests. This recipe is all about celebrating the broccoli, making it the star of a delicious, elegant, and surprisingly easy-to-make tart.
Peppermint Crisp Tart
This classic South African dessert is a crowd-pleaser for a reason! It's a delightful no-bake tart featuring layers of coconutty Tennis biscuits, a rich and creamy caramel filling, and generous amounts of refreshing peppermint chocolate. The fresh cream gives it a wonderfully light and airy texture, perfectly balancing the sweet caramel. We're even adding a double layer of biscuits for an extra crunchy foundation. It's incredibly easy to assemble and perfect for making ahead, as it sets beautifully in the fridge overnight.
Marshmallow Fridge Tart
A light and fluffy fridge tart with a ginger biscuit crust, creamy condensed milk filling, crushed pineapple, and soft marshmallows. A playful and nostalgic treat that’s quick to prepare and perfect for family gatherings.
No-Bake Milk Tart
A creamy, no-bake version of the beloved South African milk tart with a Tennis biscuit crust and silky custard filling. Lightly spiced with cinnamon, it’s best made a day in advance for perfect setting and flavour.