What's your favourite South African food?
Nothing unites people quite like food.
South Africa is a melting pot of cultures and this makes for an interesting array of unique dishes.
There are a number of foods which are almost indigenous to our country.
Gatsby, kota, bunny chow, vetkoek, pap and tripe, pap and braaivleis.
These are all dishes you won't find anywhere else other than in the borders of South Africa.
Much of it can be classified as street food - found on the streets of Soweto or on the sidewalk stores in Cape Town or the beachfront eateries in Durban.
We asked you and here's your top 5 favourites!
1. Braaivleis
South Africans love to braai, so much so that Heritage Day has been names Braai Day.
Succulent, slightly charred and smoky meat is at the heart of any braai. Everyone has their firm favourites, be it lamb chops, wors or chicken. It's also not a braai without the sides. Potato salad, chakalaka, garlic bread and buttery mielies are top picks.
Add a ice cold beer and you'll have a very happy South African!
2. Kota
The best place to find a Kota is in Soweto, Soshanguve, Mabopane and Attridgeville - according to you. A kota is a popular township food. The hallowed out quarter loaf (kota) of bread is crammed with slap chips, polony, russians, atchaar, cheese and an egg.
3. Gatsby
Now this is an extremely popular dish in Cape Town. Think of it as a monstrous foot-long sub loaded with hot chips, masala steak (or any filling of your choice including viennas, chicken and calamar). A gatsby is also usually dripping with sauce. Cut into four - it's the perfect meal to share.
4. Koeksisters
Now there are two kinds. One is a traditional Cape Malay sweet fried treat and the other is a traditional Afrikaner confectionery. The difference between the two is vast. The plaited variety is pronounced as it is spelled, the other with a silent k like koe'sister. The traditional Cape Malay koeksister is mildly spiced and fragrant. The fried doughnuts are boiled in syrup, rolled in coconut and totally different from the plaited variety. Both make for a great Sunday breakfast treat!
5. Tripe
Here's a meal that rings comfort and takes one home. It's not for everyone, but those who enjoy it really do love it. The African delicacy can be eaten with pap, dumplings, rice and even veggies and samp. It's tedious to prepare, but well worth it. It takes about 3 hours to cook depending on how you like it.
