Jozi Potjie

The Jozi Potjie is a traditional South African dish with roots deeply embedded in the country's cultural heritage. The term "Potjie" is derived from the Afrikaans word for "small pot", referring to the three-legged cast iron pot used for cooking. This dish is a celebration of communal living and is often enjoyed during gatherings and special occasions. Its origins stem from the Dutch settlers who brought the potjie cooking method to South Africa and over time, it has evolved to incorporate a diverse range of local ingredients.

Ingredients

• Beef - 1kg
• Onions - 2 large
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Carrots - 3 large
• Potatoes - 4 medium
• Butternut Squash - 1 medium
• Tomatoes - 5 ripe
• Red Wine - 250ml
• Beef Stock - 500ml
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Bay Leaves - 2
• Thyme - 1 tablespoon
• Pepper - to taste
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the beef into large cubes, approximately 3cm in size. Dice the onions finely and crush the garlic cloves. Peel and slice the carrots into rounds, and quarter the potatoes. Peel and cube the butternut squash. Lastly, blanch, peel, and chop the tomatoes.

Cooking Process

1. Heat the olive oil in a potjie pot over a bed of hot coals.
2. Add the beef and brown the pieces on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the red wine. Allow it to simmer until the wine is reduced by half.
5. Add the tomatoes, carrots, and beef stock. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Season the mixture with bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Layer the butternut squash and potatoes on top of the mixture. Do not stir - they should remain on top.
8. Cover with the potjie lid and allow the dish to cook slowly for up to 2 hours, checking and stirring occasionally. Use a cooking timer to monitor the time.
9. Ensure that the coals maintain an even, moderate heat throughout the cooking process.

How to Enjoy

The Jozi Potjie is traditionally enjoyed outdoors surrounded by family and friends. It pairs wonderfully with a side of freshly baked bread or cooked rice. To enhance the communal experience, serve the potjie directly from the pot in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This method fosters a traditional "breaking of bread" atmosphere, bringing warmth and connection to the dining experience.