South Africa is by far the most cosmopolitan country in Africa and has a mature tourism industry. There is so much to do and see from going on safari to visiting townships or taking indulgent food and wine tours in the Cape to visiting a foodie haven in Durban.
However, due to the number of South African migrants worldwide, you no longer have to travel very far to experience a taste of South Africa.
Although, nothing beats the authentic experience that travel brings, a South African experience may be closer than you think.
Take a look at this list of top 5 South African foods to try in order to get the best picks from dishes with local, Dutch, Malay, and French influences:
1. From its humble beginnings as a cured meat made purely for preservation, to the spicy snack it is today, biltong is ubiquitously one of the top South African foods to try. It is loved by many a South African but may be an acquired taste for others. If you have tried beef jerky and loved it, it is highly likely that biltong will go down very well.
2. Potjiekos is a quintessential South African dish born purely out of necessity to cook whilst on the move in the outdoors. With its roots set in an Afrikaaner tradition that supposedly emerged during the Great Trek, potjiekos has come a long way, yet it is part and parcel of South Africa’s food culture as we know it today. It is cooked in a little pot, and typical ingredients include meat, vegetables, and a starch (usually potatoes).
3. Boerewors is a high-quality sausage often spiraled and presented in a circular shape. It is made using a high content of meat and can be made of beef, pork, or game meat. It is a must-have at a braai.
4. Bobotie is a purely South African dish made with minced or shredded meat, fruit, and spices. It is topped off with a savory custard and bay leaves and baked in an oven until the custard is ready.
5. Malva pudding is a South African dessert with its origins in the Cape. It is said to have been created by the Dutch settlers and incorporates apricot jam in the recipe. It is decadent and comparable to sticky toffee pudding, but it is so much better.
