Chakalaka & Pap (Spicy Relish with Maize Porridge)

Method

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pap.

2. 2

   Rain the maize meal into the boiling water in a steady stream, stirring hard and constantly to keep it smooth.

   💡 Whisk hard the moment the meal hits the water — that's the only window you get to beat out lumps.

3. 3

   Cover and steam the pap on the lowest possible heat for 30 minutes, fluffing and stirring twice partway through.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, in a second pot, fry the onion, chili and curry powder in a little oil until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add the bell peppers, carrots and tomatoes; cook 10 minutes, until just tender but still with some bite.

6. 6

   Fold in the baked beans and warm through.

   💡 Chakalaka is a relish, not a stew — vegetables should still argue back a little.

7. 7

   Fluff the pap once more and check it holds its shape when pressed with a spoon.

8. 8

   Serve the pap firm enough to hold in your fingers, with the chakalaka spooned alongside.