Ever wondered what South African food tastes like to tourists? We asked visitors from around the world to share their thoughts on some of South Africa's most iconic dishes. From jerky to desserts, here are their honest opinions and scores. Let's dive in and see what they had to say!
Key Takeaways
Tourists have mixed feelings about South African food, with some dishes being loved and others not so much.
Local ingredients play a huge role in the unique flavors of South African cuisine, and many of these ingredients can't be found anywhere else.
Biltong, a type of jerky, seems to divide people the most, with some loving its chewy texture and others finding it too tough.
Desserts like Malva Pudding and Milk Tart are generally well-received and often steal the show.
Overall, South African food offers a wide range of flavors and experiences, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Biltong: The South African Jerky That Divides Opinions
Chewy Goodness or Tough Luck?
Biltong is like the South African cousin of beef jerky, but with a twist. Some folks love its chewy goodness, while others think it's just tough luck. Imagine biting into a piece of dried meat that's been marinated in vinegar and spices. Sounds tasty, right? Well, not everyone agrees. Some tourists find it a bit too gamey, especially if they're used to the milder flavors of beef jerky. But for those who grew up with it, biltong is a snack they can't live without.
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Score (out of 10) |
USA | 6 |
UK | 5.5 |
Australia | 7 |
Germany | 5 |
Japan | 6.5 |
Tourists from different parts of the world have mixed feelings about biltong. In the USA, about 60% of people love it, while 40% can't stand it. The UK has a similar split, with 55% in favor and 45% against. Australians seem to enjoy it more, with 70% giving it a thumbs up. Germans are split right down the middle, and in Japan, 65% of people are fans.
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Biltong is made from a variety of meats, including beef, game, and even ostrich. The key ingredients that give it its unique flavor are vinegar, salt, and a mix of spices like coriander and black pepper. These local ingredients are what make biltong stand out from other dried meats. If you're ever in South Africa, you can't miss trying this iconic snack. Just be prepared for a taste that's a bit different from what you're used to!
Bunny Chow: A Carb Lover's Dream or Nightmare?
Bread Bowl Bliss or Bust?
Imagine a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled to the brim with spicy curry. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for some, it's a carb overload that leaves them feeling like they need a nap. Bunny Chow is a dish that originated in Durban, South Africa, and has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. But not everyone is a fan of this carb-heavy meal. Some say it's the ultimate comfort food, while others find it too much to handle.
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Score (out of 10) | Comments |
USA | 7 | "Tasty but way too filling!" |
UK | 8 | "Loved the flavors, but couldn't finish it." |
Australia | 6 | "Good, but a bit too much bread for my taste." |
India | 9 | "Reminds me of home, absolutely delicious!" |
Germany | 5 | "Too heavy, not my thing." |
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Bunny Chow is all about the local ingredients. The bread is usually a soft, white loaf, and the curry can be made with a variety of meats or vegetables. Common ingredients include:
Spicy curry powder
Tender chunks of meat (chicken, lamb, or beef)
Potatoes
Carrots
Peas
Onions
So, is Bunny Chow a carb lover's dream or a nightmare? That depends on your appetite and your love for spicy, hearty meals. Give it a try and decide for yourself!
Bobotie: The Sweet and Savory Surprise
Bobotie is a unique and flavorful South African dish with spiced minced meat and a creamy egg-based custard topping. This dish is a flavor explosion that will either leave you craving more or scratching your head in confusion. Let's dive into the world of Bobotie and see what tourists have to say about this fascinating national dish.
A Flavor Explosion or Confusion?
Imagine taking a bite and experiencing a mix of sweet and savory flavors all at once. Some people love the combination, while others find it a bit too much to handle. It's like a rollercoaster for your taste buds!
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Score (out of 10) |
USA | 7 |
UK | 8 |
Australia | 6 |
Germany | 7.5 |
Japan | 5 |
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Bobotie wouldn't be the same without its key ingredients:
Spiced minced meat
Creamy egg-based custard
A hint of sweetness from dried fruits
A touch of curry powder for that extra kick
Malva Pudding: The Dessert That Stole Hearts (and Waistlines)
Sweet Heaven or Sugar Overload?
Malva pudding is a dessert that has won over many hearts and expanded quite a few waistlines. This sweet treat is a must-try for anyone visiting South Africa. Imagine a sponge cake soaked in a rich, caramelized sauce. It's like a hug in dessert form! But beware, some might find it a bit too sweet. If you have a sweet tooth, this is your dream come true. If not, well, you might want to share it with a friend.
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Rating (Out of 10) |
USA | 9 |
UK | 8 |
Australia | 8.4 |
Germany | 7.2 |
Japan | 8.6 |
Tourists from all over the world have tried Malva pudding, and the scores are in! While most people love it, some find it a bit too rich. But hey, you can't please everyone, right?
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Apricot jam: This gives the pudding its unique flavor.
Vinegar: Adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Cream: Because what's a dessert without some extra creaminess?
Butter: Makes everything better, doesn't it?
Boerewors: The Sausage That Packs a Punch
Boerewors is the ultimate South African sausage that brings a burst of flavor to any barbecue. This traditional sausage is made from a mix of beef and pork, infused with a medley of spices that give it its distinctive, aromatic flavor. Ideal for grilling, boerewors is a must-try for any meat lover.
Spicy Delight or Too Much Bite?
When it comes to boerewors, opinions are as varied as the spices in the sausage. Some folks can't get enough of its rich, meaty taste, while others find the spice blend a bit overwhelming. The mix of chili, cumin, cinnamon, and allspice can be a bit much for those with milder palates.
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Score (out of 10) | Comments |
USA | 7 | "Tasty but a bit too spicy." |
UK | 8 | "Loved the unique flavor!" |
Australia | 6 | "Good, but not my favorite." |
Germany | 9 | "Fantastic! Perfect for grilling." |
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Boerewors wouldn't be the same without its unique blend of local ingredients. Here's what makes it special:
Beef and Pork: The main meats used, providing a rich and hearty base.
Coriander: Adds a fresh, citrusy note.
Vinegar: Helps to tenderize the meat and adds a slight tang.
Cloves and Nutmeg: Give the sausage its warm, spicy undertone.
Chakalaka: The Side Dish with a Kick
Chakalaka is the side dish that brings the heat to any meal. This spicy vegetable relish is a staple in South African cuisine and is often served with bread, pap, or meat. It's a mix of tomatoes, onions, carrots, and beans, all simmered together with a blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you love it or hate it, Chakalaka is sure to leave an impression.
Milk Tart: The Creamy Conundrum
Smooth and Silky or Just Plain Milky?
Milk Tart, or "Melktert" as the locals call it, is a dessert that can either make you swoon or leave you scratching your head. Imagine a pie with a filling so smooth it could be mistaken for ice cream, but without the brain freeze. The secret? Sweetened condensed milk. It's the only way to get that perfect creamy texture.
Scores from Around the Globe
Country | Score (Out of 10) | Comment |
USA | 8 | "Tastes like a hug in dessert form!" |
UK | 6 | "A bit too sweet for my liking." |
Australia | 9 | "Smooth and delightful, just like our pavlova!" |
Japan | 7 | "Interesting texture, but quite enjoyable." |
Local Ingredients You Can't Miss
Sweetened condensed milk: The star of the show, making the filling smooth and creamy.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy kick to the top.
Puff pastry: The base that holds it all together, flaky and light.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks! South African cuisine is a wild ride of flavors, textures, and some seriously unique ingredients. Whether you're munching on biltong or braving a bite of mopane worms, there's something for everyone—well, almost everyone. Our brave tourists have given us the lowdown, and while some dishes were absolute hits, others... well, let's just say they were an acquired taste. But that's the beauty of trying new foods, right? You never know what you'll love or what will make you question your life choices. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready for a culinary adventure you won't forget. And remember, if all else fails, there's always room for dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is biltong?
Biltong is a type of dried, cured meat that originated in South Africa. It's similar to beef jerky but usually thicker and can be made from various meats like beef, game, or ostrich.
What is bunny chow?
Bunny chow is a South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. It's a popular street food in Durban.
What is bobotie?
Bobotie is a traditional South African dish made with spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping. It often includes dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
What is malva pudding?
Malva pudding is a sweet, spongy dessert of Cape Dutch origin, made with apricot jam and served hot with a cream sauce. It's a popular treat in South Africa.
What is boerewors?
Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage made from beef, and sometimes pork or lamb, and spiced with coriander and other seasonings. It's usually grilled on a barbecue.
What is chakalaka?
Chakalaka is a spicy South African vegetable relish made with tomatoes, onions, and often beans. It's typically served as a side dish at barbecues.
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