Recipe for Potjiekos, a traditional South African stew

Potjiekos: A hearty stew prepared in a three-legged cast-iron pot called a “potjie.” It typically includes meat (such as beef, lamb, or game), vegetables, and spices. Potjiekos is cooked slowly over an open fire, allowing the flavours to meld together.

Potjiekos is a traditional South African stew cooked in a three-legged cast-iron pot called a potjie. It’s a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for gatherings and outdoor cooking. Here’s a basic recipe for potjiekos:

Ingredients: Potjiekos

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of meat (beef, lamb, or chicken), cubed
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2-3 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), seeded and sliced
• 250 g (8.8 oz) green beans, trimmed and halved
• 250 g (8.8 oz) baby marrows (zucchini), sliced
• 250 g (8.8 oz) cabbage, shredded
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 500 ml (2 cups) beef or vegetable stock
• Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish

Note: The ingredient quantities can be adjusted based on your preferences and the number of servings you desire.

Method:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in the potjie pot over medium heat. Brown the meat in batches until it’s nicely seared. Remove the meat and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers, green beans, baby marrows, and cabbage to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Return the meat to the potjie pot. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, curry powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
5. Pour in the stock, ensuring it covers the ingredients. If needed, add a bit more stock or water.
6. Place the lid on the potjie pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the stew to simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavours have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more stock if necessary.
7. Once the potjiekos is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander before serving. Potjiekos is traditionally enjoyed with rice or freshly baked bread.

Remember, potjiekos is a flexible dish, and you can customize it by adding or substituting ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your flavorful South African potjie stew!