8 Must-Eat South African Dishes Beyond Pap and Chakalaka

Photo: Woolworths Taste

South Africa is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, each contributing its unique flavours to the country’s rich culinary heritage. If you’ve ever visited South Africa, or even if you’ve simply watched the food trends on social media, you’ve likely encountered the iconic pap and chakalaka—two staples of South African cuisine. But the country’s culinary landscape is far more diverse and deeply rooted in culture than these ever-popular dishes.

South Africa's food is as rich and multifaceted as its people, and it’s not just about the plate; it’s about connection, tradition, and the soul-satisfying joy that comes with every meal. From hearty stews to delicious street food, the South African table is a reflection of its heritage—one that goes beyond what most people know. As a lover of global cuisine, I wanted to delve deeper into the authentic, lesser-known dishes that truly speak to South Africa's culinary heart.

If you're ready to explore more than the usual, here are 8 must-eat cultural South African dishes that you need to try.

1. Borewors with Pap and Chakalaka: The Ultimate Braai Experience

Let’s start with a classic that has earned its place in South Africa's food culture—borewors with pap and chakalaka. Borewors, a spiced sausage made from beef and pork, is synonymous with a braai (the South African barbecue). The rich, smoky flavours of the sausage are complemented by the creamy, comforting pap and the fiery chakalaka. There’s a magical synergy between the heat from the chakalaka, the savory richness of the borewors, and the simple, grounding pap. It’s the ultimate dish to share with friends and family around an open flame, embodying the essence of togetherness in South Africa.

2. Dombolo (Steamed Dumpling) with Lamb Knuckle Stew: Comfort in Every Bite

Imagine a Sunday afternoon in a South African home, the scent of rich, hearty stews wafting through the air. One of the ultimate comfort foods here is dombolo—steamed dumplings—served with a savory lamb knuckle stew. The lamb knuckles are slow-cooked to perfection, tender and soaked in a broth that speaks to the country’s love for depth of flavour. Paired with the soft, pillowy dombolo, this dish is nothing short of soul-warming. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from the inside, made even more meaningful when shared with those you love.

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3. Pap with Tripe Stew: A Dish That’s Both Humble and Heartfelt

In South Africa, pap is much more than a side dish—it’s the foundation of many meals. One particularly beloved way to enjoy pap is with tripe stew. Tripe—the stomach of a cow—may sound unusual to some, but its soft, tender texture and rich, flavorful stew will quickly win you over. The stew is made by slow-cooking the tripe with aromatic spices, onions, and garlic, creating a deep, savory broth. When paired with the comforting softness of pap, it’s a hearty meal that speaks to the heart of South African cuisine.

4. Mopane Stew: A Delicacy from the Bushveld

For those seeking something truly unique, mopane stew is a must-try. Made from mopane worms, which are actually the caterpillars of the mopane moth, this dish is a true delicacy in South Africa, particularly in the northern regions. The worms are slow-cooked in a flavorful stew, typically with onions, tomatoes, and garlic. The taste is earthy and bold, offering a deep connection to the country’s rural roots. For those willing to venture outside the ordinary, mopane worms are a protein-packed ingredient that has been enjoyed for generations.

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5. Vetkoek with Atchar and Polony: Street Food That’s Pure Nostalgia

If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of South Africa’s street food scene, it’s vetkoek. These deep-fried dough buns are soft and pillowy inside, with a golden, crispy exterior. Typically filled with savory delights, one of the most nostalgic combinations is with atchar (pickled vegetables) and polony (processed meat). The contrast between the tangy atchar, the rich polony, and the sweet vetkoek is a flavor explosion that’s impossible to forget. It’s the kind of snack that brings comfort and joy, whether you’re grabbing a bite after school or enjoying it at a local market.

6. Bunny Chow: A Durban Original with a Global Appeal

Born in the Indian community of Durban, bunny chow is an iconic South African dish that’s as bold as its flavours. A loaf of white bread is hollowed out and filled with curry, which could be anything from chicken to beans to lamb. The dish reflects South Africa’s melting pot of cultures, blending Indian influences with South African ingenuity. The curry is rich and spicy, creating a deep, hearty meal that’s perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. Its global appeal lies in its combination of street-food vibes with complex, layered flavours.

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7. Biltong: South Africa’s Ultimate Snack

No South African food adventure would be complete without biltong. This dried cured meat—similar to jerky but more flavourful—comes in various varieties, such as beef, game, or even chicken. It’s seasoned with a blend of spices, including coriander, black pepper, and vinegar, before being air-dried to perfection. Perfect for a midday snack or as an accompaniment to a glass of wine, biltong is both a symbol of South Africa’s love for bold flavours and a tribute to its rich history of hunting and preservation.

8. Malva Pudding: The Sweet End to a South African Meal

No South African feast would be complete without malva pudding, a rich and spongy dessert that’s made from a combination of sugar, eggs, butter, and apricot jam. The pudding is soaked in a warm, creamy syrup after baking, which keeps it incredibly moist and indulgent. This dessert has roots in the Cape Dutch tradition and is a perfect representation of South Africa’s love for sweet, comforting flavours. It’s often served with custard or ice cream, making it a beloved finish to any meal.

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South African cuisine is a beautiful mosaic of history, culture, and innovation. From the smoky warmth of a braai to the deep comfort of slow-cooked stews, every dish tells a story—of communities, migration, and the diverse ingredients that define the country. These 8 dishes are a mere glimpse into the incredible world of South African food, each one carrying with it a sense of place, culture, and pride.

If you’ve yet to explore the full breadth of South African cuisine, now is the time. These dishes will not only satisfy your hunger but will also invite you to experience the country in a way that goes beyond travel brochures. So, next time you’re craving something new, look beyond the usual suspects and dive into the heart of South African food—it’s a journey worth taking, one bite at a time.