Recipe for a Spicy Potato Dish

In South Africa potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables because they are nutritious, easy to prepare, and very versatile. They are rich in complex carbohydrates that can supply energy, but not all that high in calories because they are low in fat and protein. For many households it is even a staple food.

According to legend, the first potatoes for planting purposes in South Africa came from Holland to provide food for mariners visiting the Cape. Since then the potato industry has grown to become one of the important food providers in South Africa.

Within the South African context, the gross value of potato production accounts for about 43 % of major vegetables, 15 % of horticultural products and 4 % of total agricultural production.

On average domestic potato farmers harvest about R1,6 billion’s worth of potatoes per year. The latter comprise about 1 700 potato farmers (including approximately 400 seed growers) and 66 600 farm-workers.

Here is a recipe for a typical South African potato dish:

·         You will need 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

·         2 Tbsp. cooking oil

·         2 tsp. ground coriander

·         2 tsp. ground cumin

·         1 Tbsp. curry powder

·         1 tsp. turmeric

·         1 tsp. ground ginger

·         1 tsp. ground cloves

·         One onion peeled and chopped

·         2 Tbsp. lemon juice

·         100 ml warm water

Here is what you do:

·         Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft

·         Heat the cooking oil in a heavy based pan, add the spices and 1 tsp. salt, and fry it for about one minute.

·         Add the potatoes, onion, and fry for another minute.

·         Add the lemon juice and water and cook for about 5 minutes

Serve with your favourite meat dish and other side-vegetables.

We as South Africans love spicy and rich food.

Enjoy.