Joburg's Savory Stack

Background and Description

Joburg's Savory Stack is a flavorful dish inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of Johannesburg, South Africa. Combining local ingredients and spices, this layered dish captures the essence of South African cuisine. This savory stack is not only a feast for your taste buds but also provides a delightful visual appeal, making it a perfect choice for both family dinners and special occasions. With a combination of spiced meats, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces, Joburg's Savory Stack reflects the diverse cultural influences found in Johannesburg's food culture.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb boerewors sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 pieces of pita bread
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation

Begin by preparing the ground beef and boerewors. Remove the boerewors from its casing and mix it with the ground beef in a large bowl. Set this mixture aside as you prep the vegetables and other components. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the bell peppers and rinse the baby spinach. Crumble the feta and set aside for later use. Combine the yogurt, lemon juice, mint, and parsley in a small bowl to create a flavorful sauce.

Cooking Process

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the ground beef and boerewors mixture to the skillet. Cook thoroughly until browned. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and coriander. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the spices with the meat. Meanwhile, preheat an oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the pita bread on the sheet. Spread a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each pita bread, followed by sliced bell peppers and fresh baby spinach. Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the pita is crispy and the feta is lightly browned.

How to Enjoy

Serve Joburg's Savory Stack hot, drizzled with the yogurt sauce you prepared earlier. The tangy yogurt complements the savory richness of the meat and sausage, while the fresh herbs brighten the dish. This stack is best enjoyed with a side of mixed greens or alongside a refreshing South African white wine. Remember to savor each bite, experiencing the layers of flavor and the tastes of Johannesburg.