International Cuisine > African Cuisine > Southern African Dishes > Bobotie Recipe

Traditional Bobotie Recipe

Bobotie is a flavorful and aromatic minced meat dish, considered the national dish of South Africa. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating a truly authentic Bobotie experience, blending sweet and savory spices for a delightful culinary adventure.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
45-60 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 kg Ground Beef or Lamb
  • 2 Onion
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Curry Powder
  • 1 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • 1 tsp Ground Coriander
  • 2 tbsp Chutney (apricot or mango)
  • 1/2 cup Raisins or Sultanas
  • 1/4 cup Almonds (flaked)
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 2 Eggs
  • 2-3 Bay Leaves
  • 2 slices Bread (white)
  • 1 tbsp Vinegar (cider or white)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 2 tbsp Oil (for frying)

Preparing the Meat Base

Begin by soaking the bread slices in a little milk. This will help bind the mixture and add moisture. In a large pan or skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Add the ground meat to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Infusing with Flavor

Add the curry powder, turmeric, garam masala, and ground coriander to the meat mixture. Stir well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma. Squeeze out the excess milk from the soaked bread and add the bread to the meat mixture. Stir in the chutney, raisins (or sultanas), almonds, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.

Baking the Bobotie

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish. Press the mixture down gently to create an even surface. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining milk and eggs. Pour this mixture evenly over the meat in the baking dish. Arrange the bay leaves on top of the egg custard.

Baking Time

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the egg custard is set and golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with foil.

Serving

Remove the Bobotie from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Bobotie is traditionally served with yellow rice, chutney, sliced bananas, and a dollop of plain yogurt.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g)

Calories: Approximately 220-280 kcal. Protein: 15-20g. Fat: 12-18g (depending on the fat content of the meat). Carbohydrates: 10-15g. Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Important Considerations for Nutrition

To reduce the fat content, use lean ground meat. Adding more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture can increase the nutritional value and fiber content. Be mindful of the sodium content; adjust the salt accordingly based on personal preference. Bobotie is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

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FAQ

  • Can I freeze Bobotie?

    Yes, Bobotie freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in freezer-safe wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Can I make Bobotie vegetarian?

    Yes, you can substitute the ground meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • What can I use instead of chutney?

    If you don't have chutney, you can use a sweet and tangy fruit preserve, such as apricot jam, or a combination of brown sugar and vinegar.