How to Make Your Own Simple Chakalaka Spice Blend

Spice Blend

While you can find pre-made chakalaka spice blends for sale, that’s not how you’ll find most chakalaka relishes seasoned in South Africa or Zimbabwe. Instead, these will be seasoned on the spot, with the chef making sure the chakalaka seasoning is just right.

For our chakalaka recipe, we included the spices as part of the ingredients. However, you can easily make the perfect chakalaka spice blend ahead of time and store it so you always have some ready to go.

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Make Chakalaka Spice Blend

Why Should You Make Your Own Chakalaka Spice?

When you make your own, not only will you save money, but you’ll also save time when you’re ready to make your next batch. This spice blend can also be used to enhance the flavor of baked beans or stews, so it’s more versatile than just in its namesake dish!

How Much Chakalaka Seasoning Should You Make Ahead of Time?

This recipe will make enough for four batches of our chakalaka, but you’ll probably use smaller amounts when including it in other dishes so it may last you more than four total dishes.

If you find yourself running out quickly, feel free to double or triple this recipe to make more ahead of time. 

How to Store Your Chakalaka Seasoning

Obviously, it depends on how much you want to make to keep on hand. I like simple spice jars like these, but just make sure yours is airtight and store it on a shelf out of direct sunlight. 

South African Food - Pouring in the Chakalaka Seasoning

What You’ll Need to Make Chakalaka Spice

Here’s what you’ll need to make chakalaka spice at home:

Basic Equipment List

We use small mixing bowls and transfer the finished spices into an airtight spice jar.

Simple Ingredients List

1.5 ounces of curry powder

4 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. ginger spice

South African Food - Chakalaka and Rice

Yield: 2 ounces

Chakalaka Spice Blend

A delicious spice blend to use in Chakalaka salads and relishes, or to use to flavor soups, beans, and other savory meals.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1.5 ounces of curry powder
  • 4 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. ginger spice

Instructions

  1. In a small mixing bowl or directly in your spice jar, combine the curry powder, paprika, and ginger spice. Stir or shake until mixed thoroughly.
  2. Store in an airtight spice jar or container for up to one year.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

24

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 8Total Fat: .3gSaturated Fat: .1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1mgCarbohydrates: 1.5gFiber: .8gSugar: .1gProtein: .3g

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Make Chakalaka Spice Blend