How To Make Sosaties: Traditional South African Skewer

Sosaties, a quintessential dish in South African cuisine, are mouth-watering skewers of marinated meat, often interspersed with dried apricots, onions, and peppers. The name 'sosatie' is derived from the Malay words 'saus' (sauce) and 'sate' (skewered meat). Originally introduced by Cape Malay settlers, sosaties have become a beloved barbecue (braai) staple in South Africa, celebrated for their rich, spicy, and slightly sweet flavours.

Ingredients

• 800g lamb, cubed (alternatively, beef or chicken can be used)
• 2 large onions, quartered
• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks
• 150g dried apricots
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water

For the Marinade:

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam
• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

1. Preparation of Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together garlic, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, apricot jam, vinegar, and vegetable oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Marinating the Meat: Place the cubed meat in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to infuse.

3. Preparing Skewers: Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating with pieces of onion, bell pepper, and dried apricots. Ensure the skewers are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.

4. Cooking: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Place the sosaties on the grill, cooking for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is cooked to your liking. Turn them occasionally to ensure even grilling.

5. Serving: Serve the sosaties hot, with a side of rice or a fresh salad. For an authentic touch, accompany them with chutney or a cool yoghurt sauce.

Sosaties are more than just a dish; they are a celebration of South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage. This recipe is a simple way to bring a taste of South Africa into your home. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savoury flavours makes sosaties a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these skewers are sure to impress. View our shop to get a wide range of high-quality, authentic South African ingredients and cooking utensils, perfect for making traditional dishes like sosaties and much more.