Bobotie

Ingredients

• For the Meat Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb, or a combination)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped (or raisins)
  • 1/4 cup almonds or cashews, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chutney (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
  • 2 tbsp curry powder (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

• For the Egg Custard:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric (for color, optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
   • Add the chutney, dried apricots (or raisins), almonds (if using), soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or broth.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

2. Prepare the Egg Custard:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream (if using), turmeric, and cinnamon (if using). Season with a pinch of salt.

3. Assemble the Bobotie:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Transfer the cooked meat mixture into a greased 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking dish or an equivalent-sized oven-safe dish.
   • Pour the egg custard mixture over the meat, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown on top.

4. Serve:

   • Let the Bobotie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with yellow rice, a dollop of chutney, and a side of vegetables or salad for a complete meal.

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Nutritional Values (Approx. Per Serving, 1/6 of the Recipe):

Assuming 6 servings, here are the approximate nutritional values for Bobotie:

• Calories: 350–450 kcal
• Protein: 25–30 g
• Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
  • Fiber: 3–5 g (from dried apricots/raisins and almonds)
  • Sugars: 10–15 g (from chutney, apricots, and sugar)
• Fat: 20–25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6–8 g (from meat and cream, if used)
• Cholesterol: 100–120 mg
• Sodium: 500–700 mg (depending on soy sauce and chutney)
• Vitamins & Minerals:
  • Vitamin A: 10–15% of the Daily Value (from egg and turmeric)
  • Iron: 10–12% of the Daily Value (from meat and almonds)
  • Calcium: 8–10% of the Daily Value (from milk and eggs)

Bobotie is a rich and flavorful dish, packed with spices, sweetness, and savory goodness. It’s a great dish for a comforting dinner or to impress guests with a unique South African recipe.