About
Potjiekos, a traditional Namibian dish, is a hearty stew cooked slowly over an open fire in a cast-iron pot, known as a "potjie." This cooking method was brought to Namibia by Dutch settlers, known as Afrikaners, in the 17th century. The name "potjiekos" translates to "small pot food" in Afrikaans.
The dish typically includes a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, or game, combined with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. The ingredients are layered in the pot and simmered slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together. Herbs, spices, and sometimes beer or wine are added for extra depth.
Potjiekos has deep cultural roots and is often associated with communal gatherings and outdoor events. The slow cooking process encourages socializing, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations. Each cook might have their own variation, adding a personal touch to the traditional recipe.
In Namibia, potjiekos represents a blend of indigenous and colonial culinary influences, reflecting the country's diverse heritage. It's more than just a meal; it's a tradition that brings people together, celebrating both the past and present.
Serving & Tradition
Tang Yuan is typically eaten hot, either in a sweet ginger broth or plain with a drizzle of honey. Families gather to eat them while praying for happiness, family unity, and a prosperous year ahead. The roundness of Tang Yuan reflects the full moon, symbolizing harmony and reunion.
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Potjiekos From Namibia
Potjiekos, a traditional Namibian dish, is a hearty stew cooked slowly over an open fire in a cast-iron pot, known as a "potjie".
Prep time
20 mins
Cook time
2 hours
Serves
4
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 lbs (1 kg) beef stew meat with bones (lamb or game meat also works)
2 large onions, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup beef broth or water
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1.5 tablespoon dried thyme
1.5 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon curry powder
100 ml milk
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
A typical Namibian stew with European influence.
Click here for video recipe and story on Instagram
Brown the Meat: Add the vegetable oil to the pot. Once hot, add the meat in batches to brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the onions to the pot and sauté until golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Layer the Ingredients: Return the meat to the pot.
Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour the beef broth over the meat and onions. Add paprika, curry powder, salt, pepper
Slow Cook: Cover the pot with its lid. Allow the potjiekos to simmer gently for about 1-1.5 hours. Avoid stirring; instead, rotate the pot occasionally for even cooking.
Once your meat is 90% tender, add in your carrots and potatoes. Cook until vegetables are to your liking
To your milk, add in brown sugar, thyme and more curry powder. Stir to dissolve. Temper your milk with some of the broth from your stew. Add milk mixture on super low heat and let cook for 10 more minutes.
Serve: Once the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, straight from the pot.
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