Welcome to South Africa’s Take on Deep-Fried Street Food

Hey there, foodie! Today, I want to take you on a tantalizing journey through South Africa’s unique twist on deep-fried street food. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure like no other!

Now, you’re probably wondering, what makes South African street food so special? Well, let me tell you. It’s all about the magical combination of flavors and the creative culinary craftmanship that goes into each dish.

Picture this – the sizzle of hot oil, the golden crunch of a perfectly battered morsel, and the explosion of flavor as you take your first bite. That’s what you can expect from South Africa’s deep-fried street food scene.

One of the stars of this delightful food culture is the Vetkoek. It’s a heavenly treat that combines a fluffy, deep-fried dough with a generous filling of your choosing, ranging from savory minced meat to sweet and sticky syrup. It’s a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

But wait, there’s more! Have you ever tried a Gatsby? No, not the famous writer, but rather a mouthwatering sandwich that takes indulgence to a whole new level. Imagine a foot-long roll overflowing with layers of crispy fries, juicy meat, and a variety of sauces. It’s a handheld feast that’s guaranteed to leave you satisfied and craving more.

And let’s not forget about the equally delicious Bunny Chow. Despite its adorable name, this dish is a force to be reckoned with. It starts with a hollowed-out loaf of bread, which is then filled to the brim with flavorful curry. One bite and you’ll be transported to a world of rich spices and hearty goodness.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – how do I get my hands on these delectable treats? Well, fear not! South Africa’s bustling street markets are the perfect place to sample these delights. Just follow your nose and let it lead you to the fragrant stalls where these culinary wonders await.

So, my fellow food lover, if you’re ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other, South Africa’s twist on deep-fried street food is calling your name. Grab your appetite and dive headfirst into the tantalizing world of flavors that await you. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

When it comes to food that brings comfort, there’s nothing quite like deep-fried dishes. They have a special place in our hearts all around the globe. Today, I want to talk about South Africa’s unique take on this golden treat.

Deep-fried food has a way of making us feel good, no matter where we are. The crispy exterior and the tender inside create a delightful contrast that keeps us coming back for more. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.

South Africa, like many other countries, has its own twist on deep-fried cuisine. The flavors and techniques used in their dishes are influenced by the rich culinary heritage of the region. It’s a beautiful blend of different cultures coming together to create something truly special.

One dish that stands out is the famous “vetkoek,” a traditional South African fried bread. It’s soft and doughy on the inside, with a crispy outer layer that’s hard to resist. Whether you fill it with savory mince or sweet jam, it’s a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.

Another beloved deep-fried treat in South Africa is the “koeksister.” These sweet, syrup-drenched pastries are a decadent indulgence. The twisted shape and sticky glaze make them a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. They’re the perfect companion for a cup of tea or coffee.

But it’s not just about the taste. Deep-fried food has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a family gathering or a street food festival, these golden delights have the power to create a sense of community. There’s something magical about sharing a plate of piping hot fries or crispy chicken with the people you love.

So, if you’re in search of comfort and a little taste of South Africa, why not give their unique twist on deep-fried food a try? I promise you won’t be disappointed. Just be prepared to fall in love with the golden goodness that awaits.

Welcome to the most delightful spot in Rylands Estate, Cape Town!

Every Friday, us boarding school kids from the Platteland would be filled with an extra dose of excitement. It symbolized the start of the weekend, when we could finally enjoy the comforts of home and indulge in some delicious home-cooked meals. Whether it was a traditional braai or my mom’s famous malva pudding with a scoop of ice cream, Fridays were a time of pure bliss.

But in our little valley, Fridays held an extra special treat – ‘vetkoek-en-kerrie’ made by the one and only amagwinya queen, Marie Pokpas. She had a true talent for crafting these delectable treats, and her passion and care were evident in every bite.

Every Friday morning, I would make a batch of dough that was big enough to feed our farm and then some. My secret weapon was adding a generous handful of sugar to the dough, which would create a delicious caramel crust around the fluffy bread clouds as they sizzled away in the bubbling fat.

I would let the dough rise and then knock it down multiple times throughout the morning. And when school let out, I would start baking. I timed it just right so that by the time you arrived on the farm – which was about an hour’s drive from town – there would be golden brown pillows of crunchy, fluffy dough being flicked out of the hot oil and into a huge enamel bowl to cool down.

As soon as the vetkoek landed in the bowl, a group of excited kids would grab them and toss them between their palms. Meanwhile, I would playfully chase them around the kitchen, fork aloft, pretending to be furious.

There’s something truly magical about biting into a warm, freshly fried amagwinya. It’s like tasting a piece of heaven.

Fried food has always had a special place in different cultures. Even in ancient times, people cherished it. In the Bible, King David’s daughter, Tamar, made a dish called Zalabiyeh. It was a deep-fried dough that people in Canaan enjoyed as early as the second millennium, BC. In present-day Iran, they have a similar treat called Zolbiya, which is eaten during Ramadan and coated with honey or sugar syrup for sweetness.

But South Africans have their own unique twist on fried food. We add spices and toasted coconut to freshly fried dough and call it a koeksister. Or we shape the dough into plaits, fry it, and dip it in a semi-frozen sugar syrup to create Die Koeksister, the Afrikaans version. However, not all of our beloved deep-fried South African classics are made of dough. In Cape Town, we have a local favorite called slap tjips that surpasses even the globally famous French fries. These soft chips with crispy edges are sprinkled with salt and vinegar. They’re perfect for wrapping fried fish in unprinted newspaper. But the real star is when we top them with peri-peri spice and pile them on a classic steak masala with a full-size gatsby sandwich. Trust me, it’s the ultimate cure for a hangover — if you remembered to stock up before Thursday, that is!

Alright, let’s talk about fried food. I don’t know about you, but there’s something about it that makes my taste buds dance. I mean, who can resist the golden crunchiness of deep-fried goodness? Whether it’s french fries, doughnuts, or even those interesting Walkie Talkies made from chicken heads and feet, fried food has a special place in my heart.

Now, let me share with you some of the top spots in South Africa where you can find the best deep-fried treats. These places are like heaven for fried food lovers like you and me.

Masala steak gatsby

The Best Gatsby Ever

Gatsby eateries are like little sanctuaries here in Cape Town. Choosing just one is practically impossible; it’s like trying to pick a favorite child. Nevertheless, The Golden Dish in Rylands is a beloved spot that is frequented by locals. You can always count on the food to be of excellent quality. The chips are wonderfully crispy and seasoned to perfection. The steak is cooked just right, and the packing paper it comes in is robust enough to handle any leftovers you may have. You can nibble on those later. Give them a call at 021 633 7864 to place your order.

Where to find them: They are located at the Gatesville Shopping Centre, 1 Hazel Rd & Klipfontein Rd, Gatesville, Cape Town.

Holy Dough

Imagine South Africa’s version of churros, but even better – deep-fried Do-Fills. These delectable strips of scone-like pastry are made to perfection by frying them until they’re golden and crispy. The best part? They’re filled with sweet Caramel Treat, making them a childhood dream come true.

But here’s the catch – finding Do-Fills can be quite a challenge. These divine treats are like hidden treasures that only reveal themselves at special events and fairs across the country. You’ll need to keep an eye out for custom-built frying carts and their vendors. Luckily, there’s now a permanent Do-Fill shop in Jeffrey’s Bay, located in the Eastern Cape. They serve these addictive deep-fried delights all year round.

If you’re wondering where to find this holy grail of desserts, you’ll be happy to know that it’s located at St Francis Drive, Fountains Mall, in Jeffrey’s Bay, Eastern Cape. So next time you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to taste the heavenly combination of crispy pastry and gooey Caramel Treat.

Contact Information: 082 876 1149

Kamikaze Fries: Real Potato Chips with a Fiery Punch

Imagine a world filled with bland, mass-produced fries, where the taste of real, homemade potato chips is but a distant memory. Thankfully, the Highlander Pub at the Royal St Andrews Hotel in Port Alfred offers a tantalizing solution: Kamikaze fries. These fries are a true masterpiece, carefully crafted to elevate your taste buds to new heights.

What makes Kamikaze fries so special? Picture this: a mountain of twice-cooked, golden potato chips piled high on a wooden board. But that’s just the beginning. Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion as these crispy chips are generously coated with fiery hot chillies, a secret signature spice, roasted garlic and chilli oil, and served with a dollop of homemade aioli and wedges of tangy lemon.

These are not just any potato chips – they are a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscent of the chips your beloved Ouma used to lovingly prepare. But be warned, they are not for the faint of heart. The irresistible combination of flavors will leave your taste buds dancing and your lips tingling, craving for more.

So, if you’re searching for a culinary adventure that delights both the adventurous and nostalgic foodie in you, look no further than the Highlander Pub. Pay them a visit at 19 St Andrews Rd, Port Alfred, Sunshine Coast, Eastern Cape, or give them a call at 046 604 5400.

Amagwinya Warriors

Hey there! Have you ever tried fresh amagwinya? They’re these delicious little fried bread cakes that you can find all across South Africa. You’ll see them being sold at busy taxi ranks, train stations, and pretty much anywhere there are people gathered and waiting. You can even get a packet of three or four of these tasty treats for just R10. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a big impact on people’s lives.

Many entrepreneurs and mothers have turned their talent for making these yummy snacks into a way to support their families. They set up shop on the side of the road, making it hard to pinpoint exactly where you can find them. For example, in Cape Town, there’s a trustworthy seller under the trees on Heerengracht Street, just outside the train station. And if you find yourself passing through Mount Ayliff in KwaZulu-Natal on your way to Kokstad, be sure to stop by the favorite spot near the N2 Stop.

Welcome to Kalk Bay Harbour, the place where Kalky’s Fish & Chips calls home.

Explore the Sea

There’s something special about enjoying a plate of freshly fried fish right by the water’s edge. And when you visit Kalky’s, you’re as close to the ocean as can be. The fishermen’s beloved spot never fails to impress with its perfectly cooked seafood, served alongside a heaping portion of crisp slap chips. As you relish in the flavors, you’ll catch whiffs of the salty sea breeze, and if you keep an eye out, you might even see the day’s catch being unloaded from the boats. To top it all off, why not take a charming train ride to Kalk Bay? It’ll only make the experience that much better.

When you visit Kalky’s, keep it simple and don’t expect diet food. Fancy options are not what this place is about. If you want something grilled, be ready to pay an extra R5. The best choice is to go for the fried fish and chips and enjoy it without any complications. Just be aware that the lines can get pretty long, especially during the busy times.
Call: 021 788 1726

Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk Bay, Western Cape