Cape Town Savory Stax

Introduction to Cape Town Savory Stax

Cape Town Savory Stax is a vibrant dish that merges the culinary traditions of South African cuisine with a modern twist. Inspired by the rich flavors of Cape Malay cooking and the bustling markets of Cape Town, this dish layers various ingredients to create a textured and flavorful experience. Each bite is a journey through the diverse tastes of spices, locally sourced veggies, and premium meats, making it a celebration of Cape Town’s cultural tapestry.

Ingredients

• Roti - 4 large pieces
• Chicken Thighs - 500g, boneless and skinless
• Coriander - 1 bunch, fresh
• Turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Garam Masala - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, minced
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomato - 2 medium, chopped
• Red Chili - 1 or 2, depending on preference
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Plain Yogurt - 100g
• Cucumber - 1, diced
• Mint leaves - a handful, chopped
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

1. Begin by marinating the chicken thighs. In a bowl, mix garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and a squeeze of lemon. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coat. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the raita. In a separate bowl, combine plain yogurt with diced cucumber and chopped mint. Season with a pinch of salt and mix well. Let it chill in the fridge.

Cooking Process

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, sauté until translucent.
2. Add marinated chicken thighs to the pan. Cook and stir until thoroughly cooked, about 15 minutes. Check using a cooking time for accuracy.
3. In a separate small pan, lightly roast cumin seeds until aromatic.
4. Add tomatoes and red chili to the chicken, stir well, and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Warm rotis in another pan or on a grill until pliable.
6. Layer each roti with a serving of the chicken mix, sprinkle with roasted cumin seeds, and top with fresh coriander.
7. Serve with chilled cucumber-mint raita on the side.

Tips for Enjoying Cape Town Savory Stax

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The combination of spicy chicken and cool raita creates a delightful contrast, making each bite bursting with flavor. For an authentic experience, serve with a glass of South African Chenin Blanc or iced Rooibos tea. Invite friends and family to share this meal in true Cape Town spirit – one of community and shared joy.