Bobotie – A Taste of South Africa

Bobotie – A Taste of South Africa

Bobotie – South African flavor

Boboti, literally meaning “cake” in Afrikaans, is a delicious and tasty mince pie. It's not just a dish. It's a very interesting and subtly complex experience. Bobotie has a fascinating history that has evolved from Dutch influence to a unique South African tradition. A very special dish that recalls family celebrations and beautiful memories. My grandmother taught me the secret to building a real robot. This is a recipe that I have developed over the years.

Performance: for 6-8 people

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 45-60 minutes

  • Raw materials:
    • 1 kg beef (shoulder and cut into 5 cm cubes)
    • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
    • 2 medium onions, chopped
    • 2 cloves of garlic (chopped)
    • 1 teaspoon powdered smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon of curry powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 tablespoon of tomato puree
    • 1 cup red wine (dry)
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 tablespoon dark chocolate (70% or more), chopped
    • 2 tablespoons chili powder (for garnish)
    • Season with salt and black pepper.
    • 2 tablespoons of butter
    • 1 tablespoon of applesauce
    • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
    • Sprinkle with chili powder
  1. Instructions:
  2. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the meat and brown it on all sides. Don't overload the bread. Work in batches if necessary. Take out the meat and set aside.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the same pan and cook until soft, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add smoked paprika, curry powder, cumin, cinnamon and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the red wine and boil for a few minutes, scraping up any brown residue from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Add the meat broth and applesauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until meat is tender, about 30 to 45 minutes.
  8. Add the chopped dark chocolate and lemon juice. Heat for about 5 minutes.
  9. Season with salt and pepper.
  10. Serve hot with yellow rice (a must!) and potato wedges.

Tips and variations:

  • Some people add brandy while cooking to add flavor.
  • For vegetarian dishes, replace the meat with 500 g of chopped mushrooms.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your liking. This is a very adaptable dish.

Savor the flavors of South Africa!

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