Afrikaner cuisine is rich in history and tradition, deeply influenced by Dutch, German, French, and indigenous African cooking. It often reflects the hearty, rustic, and practical meals suited to farm life. Here are some iconic dishes that represent the heart of Afrikaner food:
1. Biltong
Biltong is a traditional dried meat snack, similar to jerky but with unique spices. It can be made from beef, game, or ostrich, and is seasoned with vinegar, coriander, black pepper, and salt before being air-dried.
2. Boerewors
A coiled sausage made from a blend of beef and pork (sometimes lamb), mixed with spices like coriander, nutmeg, and cloves. Boerewors is often grilled over an open fire (braai) and served with bread, pap (maize porridge), or salad.
3. Bobotie
Bobotie is a fragrant minced meat dish baked with a spiced mixture of ground meat (usually beef or lamb), dried fruit, and curry spices, topped with an egg custard. It’s often served with yellow rice and sambals (condiments).
4. Melktert (Milk Tart)
A creamy custard pie with a sweet pastry crust, melktert is a popular dessert in Afrikaner households. The filling is made from milk, sugar, eggs, and flour, and is usually dusted with cinnamon.
5. Potjiekos
A slow-cooked stew made in a round, cast-iron pot (potjie) over an open fire. It typically includes meat, vegetables, and sometimes potatoes or rice. The potjiekos is cooked slowly for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. This dish is often shared among friends and family at social gatherings.
6. Koeksisters
A sweet treat made from braided dough that’s deep-fried and soaked in syrup. There are two versions: the sticky, syrupy Cape Malay version, and the more common Afrikaner version which is crispy and sweet.
7. Pap en Sous
Pap (similar to polenta or porridge) is a staple made from maize meal, often served with a tomato-based sauce (sous) or with braaivleis (grilled meat). It’s a comfort food deeply rooted in Afrikaner cuisine, especially in rural areas.
8. Vetkoek
This is a fried dough bread, usually served with savoury fillings like curried mince or just with butter and jam for a sweeter option. It’s a hearty snack or meal often enjoyed with tea.
9. Sosaties
Skewered meat, usually lamb or chicken, marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce made with apricots, onions, and spices. Sosaties are grilled over a fire and are a favourite at braais.
10. Tamatiesmoor
A simple yet flavorful tomato and onion stew that’s often served as a side dish with meats or pap. It’s seasoned with sugar, salt, and sometimes a bit of curry powder.
Read: A Traditional Kenyan Breakfast featuring Chapati, Omelette, and spiced Kenyan black tea
Afrikaner food often celebrates the simplicity of ingredients, relying on slow cooking methods, hearty flavors, and community-centered meals around the fire (braai).