As the cost of living continues to put pressure on family budgets, many South Africans are rediscovering the value of humble foods that have nourished generations.
A Return to Simple Recipes
The constant rise in food, electricity, and household costs is prompting many people to return to simple dishes that formed the basis of the family table for many years. These meals are characterized by affordability, satiety, and carry memories that remind people why they never go out of style.
Staple Foods
For many households, maize meal remains the preferred choice. Known as 'isidudu' in isiXhosa, it has always been one of the most reliable staple foods in the country. A large bag can feed a family for several weeks and can be prepared in various ways; some prefer it traditionally with sugar, peanut butter, margarine, milk, or even with added Oros.
This dish, a classic South African breakfast, is made from ground white maize and is popular across all social classes.
Meat Alternatives and Legumes
Another popular product gaining traction is beans. Previously viewed as a simple meat substitute, they are now attracting families looking for an affordable source of protein. One packet provides a significant volume and can be turned into a hearty stew with onions, curry powder, and tomatoes. Served with pap or rice, beans demonstrate that a satisfying meal does not have to be expensive.
Peas and beans, known as 'umngqusho' in isiXhosa, continue to hold a special place in South African kitchens. This dish increases in volume during cooking, making it ideal for feeding a large family. Although its preparation requires patience, the reward is a comforting meal that pairs well with chicken, beef, sausages, or tripe.
Other Popular Dishes
Canned pilchards are also growing in popularity. They are easy to store, quick to prepare, and rich in protein. They can be served on fresh bread or turned into a simple curry with onion, garlic, and curry powder; pilchards remain one of the easiest ways to put a meal on the table after a long day.
Chicken livers are also gaining new fans. Once overlooked in favor of other cuts, they have become favorites among shoppers looking for good deals. Prepared with onion, garlic, and pepper sauce, and then finished with a small amount of cream, they create a rich dish perfect with bread or pap.
Vegetables and Baked Goods
Cabbage continues to prove that simple vegetables deserve respect. One head can last for several meals and stores well in the refrigerator. Stewed with onion, oil, salt, and black pepper, cabbage is a light side dish that goes well with almost everything, from pap to rice.
Additionally, there are vetkoek, or 'amagwinya'—comfort food that many cannot resist. These golden treats, made from flour, yeast, sugar, and water, are easy to make at home. They can be eaten plain or filled with savory fillings.
Traditional and Coastal Dishes
Tripe is also making a comeback as a traditional favorite. It requires time for cleaning and preparation, but it rewards patient cooks with tender meat that pairs perfectly with pap or 'umngqusho'. For many families, it is a reminder that the best dishes often come from simple ingredients.
Along the coast, snoek remains an affordable seafood delicacy. Snoek, cut into pieces and cooked with onion, potatoes, apricot paste, and lemon juice, creates a timeless comfort food.
No list would be complete without chakalaka. Born in the kitchens of slums, where people used all the vegetables they had, this spicy relish transforms carrots, onions, peppers, and canned beans into something very aromatic. It is delicious with pap and remains a side dish essential to any World Cup barbecue.
