Ingredient appreciation — what makes Chakalaka special

What sets Chakalaka apart is the handling of chakalaka relish. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the sweet-tangy from chutney result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

Cape Malay cuisine reflects the heritage of enslaved people brought from Southeast Asia. The a weekend braai atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had rooibos tea as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Chakalaka is the place to start.