Cape Malay Sosatie

Introduction to Cape Malay Sosatie

Cape Malay Sosatie is a flavorful and aromatic dish hailing from the vibrant Cape Malay community of South Africa. The word "sosatie" is derived from "sate," referring to skewered meat, and "saus," meaning spicy sauce. Influenced by Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines, sosaties are a popular choice for braais, South Africa's traditional barbecue. Typically made from lamb or chicken, these skewers are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, infusing the meat with a unique taste. The combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors creates a memorable experience for the taste buds.

Ingredients

• Lamb or Chicken - 1kg, boneless, cut into cubes
• Apricot Jam - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 2 large, diced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
• Curry Powder - 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
• Vinegar - 1/4 cup
• Brown Sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Bay Leaves - 4 pieces
• Fresh Coriander - a handful, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Dried Apricots - 1 cup
• Bell Peppers - 2 large, cut into pieces
• Skewers - soaked in water for 30 minutes

Preparation Steps

1. In a large bowl, mix the apricot jam, onions, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, vinegar, brown sugar, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the lamb or chicken cubes, mixing well to coat every piece with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Sosaties

1. Preheat your grill or braai for medium heat.
2. While the grill heats, thread the marinated lamb or chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and dried apricots.
3. Brush the olive oil onto the skewers to prevent sticking.
4. Place the sosaties on the grill and cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning frequently until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Check the internal temperature occasionally with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to preference.

Alternative Indoor Cooking

If grilling isn't an option, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F), place the sosaties on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.

Serving Suggestions

Sosaties are best enjoyed with a side of basmati rice or couscous, along with a fresh salad. The sweet and spicy flavors make a delightful pairing with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing fruit cocktail.

Conclusion

The exotic flavors of Cape Malay Sosatie tell a story of a rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary influences. By balancing sweet, spicy, and savory elements, this dish promises a satisfying meal experience. Whether it's served at a summer grill or a cozy dinner indoors, sosaties are guaranteed to impress guests and make any occasion special.

"