![South African cuisine](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-auto,dpr-auto/cuisines/south-african-cuisine--5e24c69a-83b6-4f3f-9cc2-1665d497ffec.png)
Cuisine
South African cuisine
South African cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's geography and climate. The cuisine is characterized by its use of game meats, seafood, and indigenous plants and fruits. South African cuisine is also influenced by the country's colonial history, with Dutch, British, and Indian influences present in many dishes. The cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients.
Typical ingredients
Game meats (ostrich, springbok, impala), Seafood, Indigenous plants and fruits (rooibos tea, baobab fruit), Maize, Beans, Sweet potatoes
Presentation and garnishing
Presentation and garnishing are not a major focus in South African cuisine. Dishes are often served family-style, with large platters of food placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.
South Africa is home to a number of unique ingredients, such as the rooibos plant, which is used to make a popular tea. The country is also known for its production of high-quality wine and beer.
More cuisines from this region...
Malagasy cuisine, Mauritian cuisine, Malawian cuisine, Mozambican cuisine, Seychellois cuisine, Zambian cuisine, Zimbabwean cuisine, Botswana cuisine, Namibian cuisine, Cuisine of Eswatini
History
South African cuisine has been shaped by the country's geography and climate. The country's diverse landscape has led to a wide variety of ingredients being used in the cuisine. The cuisine has also been influenced by the country's colonial history, with Dutch, British, and Indian influences present in many dishes. South African cuisine has evolved over time, with new ingredients and cooking techniques being introduced by immigrants and travelers.
Cultural significance
Food is an important part of South African culture, with many traditional dishes being served at special occasions such as weddings and festivals. The cuisine is also influenced by the country's colonial history, with Dutch, British, and Indian influences present in many dishes.
Health benefits and considerations
South African cuisine is generally considered to be healthy, with a focus on fresh, whole ingredients. However, some dishes may be high in fat or salt. Game meats are a good source of protein, while indigenous plants and fruits provide a variety of vitamins and minerals.
South African cuisine dishes Browse all »
![Melkkos](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/melkkos--cb626812-940d-47da-abe0-9e22c6a7ba54.png)
Melkkos
Melkkos is a traditional South African dish that is made with milk, flour, and butter. It is a creamy and comforting dish that is often served as a dessert or a light meal.
![Amadombolo](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/amadombolo--76c27a7e-3e7f-4443-bf0c-da2f4319d9b0.png)
Amadombolo
Amadombolo, also known as dumplings, are a traditional South African dish made from flour, water, and salt. They are typically served as a side dish with meat dishes such as...
![Hertzoggie](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/hertzoggie--efac2e5a-8118-4e56-90e4-658ddb58d630.png)
Hertzoggie
Hertzoggie are a traditional South African cookie that are perfect for any occasion. They are made with a shortbread crust and a jam filling, and are topped with a coconut meringue.
![Bobotie](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/bobotie--2816e00f-af59-4145-b1fc-433fca24c2dd.png)
Bobotie
Bobotie is a classic South African dish made with spiced ground meat and topped with a custard-like topping. It is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy...
![Malva Pudding](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/malva-pudding--4c2eb88c-5110-47c2-96da-9f094ad6cfc8.png)
Malva Pudding
Malva Pudding is a sweet and sticky South African dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with a sponge cake base that is soaked in a hot, buttery sauce, which...
![Droëwors](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/droewors--9ab04556-aed6-4c7d-99dc-f7a9f9c9c0e8.png)
Droëwors
Droëwors is a traditional South African snack made from beef or game meat that has been dried and cured. This snack is a great option for those looking for a high-protein,...
![Potbrood](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/potbrood--97875275-0700-4bc3-b846-5f550c4fccd0.png)
Potbrood
Pot Bread
Potbrood is a traditional South African bread that is baked in a cast iron pot over an open fire. It has a crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior.
![Karoo Roast Ostrich Steak](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/karoo-roast-ostrich-steak--93129630-7eb2-4b40-8b4e-acbef1809905.png)
Karoo Roast Ostrich Steak
Karoo roast ostrich steak is a dish that is made with ostrich meat that has been marinated in a variety of spices and then roasted to perfection. The dish is typically served...
South African cuisine recipes Browse all »
![Squid Ink Soup with Seafood - A Taste of the Ocean](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/squid-ink-soup-with-seafood-a-taste-of-the-ocean--0a5cd3ba-b596-4029-87c4-0612f209556b.png)
Squid Ink Soup with Seafood - A Taste of the Ocean
Oceanic Delight: Squid Ink Soup with South African Seafood
![South African Fruit Salad](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/south-african-fruit-salad--90273482-3413-49aa-a47e-db453d226e32.png)
South African Fruit Salad
Safari Delight: A Taste of South African Fruit Salad
![South African Spiced Lamb Bobotie](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/south-african-spiced-lamb-bobotie--34a0a769-d8c6-452c-ae4d-aa711e96297c.png)
South African Spiced Lamb Bobotie
Savory Delight: A Taste of South African Spiced Lamb Bobotie
![Garnatálg with a South African Twist](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/garnatalg-with-a-south-african-twist--4cbd4e21-d2f3-4216-8a86-1a6549eb0b1e.png)
Garnatálg with a South African Twist
Spicy Shrimp Stew with Bobotie Flavors
![South African Spiced Fish Soup](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/south-african-spiced-fish-soup--7d96e94c-19ff-43d7-8b1b-631a65da1a78.png)
South African Spiced Fish Soup
Savory Seafood Delight: South African Spiced Fish Soup
![Garlic-infused Perch](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/garlic-infused-perch--9d7228ad-d2f2-42dc-9ce0-0eaffae4a9e3.png)
Garlic-infused Perch
Savory Garlic Perch: A South African Delight
![South African Spiced Tava Kebab](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/south-african-spiced-tava-kebab--8ebe6d45-df91-4361-a0d0-be357b2ce851.png)
South African Spiced Tava Kebab
Savory Spiced Tava Kebabs with a South African Twist
![South African Spiced Paper Wrapped Cake](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/south-african-spiced-paper-wrapped-cake--d67d5f79-5fed-401a-8382-839de4236be0.png)
South African Spiced Paper Wrapped Cake
Aromatic Delight: South African Spiced Paper Wrapped Cake
![South African Braai Chicken with Spicy Apricot Glaze](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/no-image-empty-plate.png)
South African Braai Chicken with Spicy Apricot Glaze
Flavors of the South: Spicy Apricot Glazed Braai Chicken
![Potbrood with a Twist](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/potbrood-with-a-twist--98ddefeb-1fcd-43e1-afe3-9d6f43d74c08.png)
Potbrood with a Twist
Savory South African Potbrood: A Flavorful Journey
![Sikil Pak with a South African Twist](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/no-image-empty-plate.png)
Sikil Pak with a South African Twist
Spicy Peanut Dip: A Taste of South Africa
![Traditional South African Potjiekos](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/traditional-south-african-potjiekos--9c5556cb-32c6-4678-80e4-c37cf94256b2.png)
Traditional South African Potjiekos
Savory Delight: A Taste of South Africa's Potjiekos