Monzoors Kitchen- A Food Blog with Easy and Tasty Recipes.

  🍯 Traditional South African Koeksisters Recipe Crispy, golden South African Koeksisters soaked in syrup – a sweet, sticky, and delicious treat. Learn how to make this traditional dessert step by step. 🌍 What Are Koeksisters? Koeksisters are a South African dessert made from braided fried dough soaked in a cold sugary syrup. They’re crispy on the outside, sticky-sweet, and soft on the inside. Traditionally enjoyed at tea time, Koeksisters are an iconic treat that showcases the fusion of Dutch and South African culinary traditions. There are two main versions: Afrikaner Koeksisters – crunchy and syrup-soaked. Cape Malay Koeksisters – spiced, softer, and rolled in coconut. This recipe focuses on the classic Afrikaner-style Koeksisters . ✅ Ingredients For the Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 2 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp butter (cold, cubed) ½ cup milk (or as needed) 1 large egg For the Syrup: 2 cups sugar 1 cup water 1 tsp lemon ...

  🍛 Authentic Cape Malay Curry Recipe (South African Style) Make a fragrant and flavorful Cape Malay Curry – a South African classic made with aromatic spices, tender meat, and a touch of sweetness. Step-by-step recipe, FAQs, and serving ideas included. 🌍 What is Cape Malay Curry? Cape Malay Curry is a unique South African dish with influences from Malaysian, Indonesian, Indian, and African cuisines . Known for its fragrant spices, mild heat, and slightly sweet flavor, this curry is popular in Cape Town’s Cape Malay community. Unlike fiery Indian curries, Cape Malay Curry balances aromatic spices with sweetness from dried fruits like apricots or raisins. It’s a comforting dish often enjoyed with rice, roti, or bread. ✅ Ingredients (Serves 4–6) 2 lbs (1 kg) chicken, lamb, or beef (cubed) 2 tbsp oil 2 onions (chopped) 3 cloves garlic (minced) 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated) 2 tbsp curry powder (mild or medium) 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground co...

  🥘 Traditional South African Potjiekos Recipe Learn how to make authentic South African Potjiekos – a slow-cooked stew made in a cast-iron pot over open flames. Step-by-step recipe, serving ideas, FAQs, and similar dishes included. 🇿🇦 What is Potjiekos? Potjiekos (pronounced poi-kee-kos , meaning “small pot food” in Afrikaans) is a traditional South African stew cooked slowly in a cast-iron pot over coals. Unlike regular stews, ingredients are layered (not stirred) and simmered gently, allowing flavors to develop naturally. It’s a communal dish, often enjoyed at gatherings, camping trips, or family braais (barbecues). ✅ Ingredients (Serves 6–8) 2 lbs (1 kg) beef or lamb (cubed) 2 tbsp oil (sunflower or canola) 2 onions (chopped) 3 cloves garlic (minced) 3 large carrots (sliced) 4 medium potatoes (cubed) 2 cups green beans (cut in halves) 2 cups cabbage (shredded) 1 cup mushrooms (optional) 2 cups beef stock or water 1 cup red wine (optional) 2 tbsp tomato ...

  🥩 Traditional South African Biltong Recipe (Homemade) Learn how to make authentic South African Biltong at home – a spiced, air-dried beef snack packed with flavor. Step-by-step instructions, tips, FAQs, and serving suggestions included. 🇿🇦 What is Biltong? Biltong is a traditional South African dried meat snack , similar to beef jerky but prepared differently. It’s seasoned with vinegar, spices, and coriander, then air-dried to create a savory, protein-packed treat. Biltong is loved across South Africa as a snack, road-trip companion, or even an ingredient in sandwiches and salads. Unlike jerky, biltong is air-dried (not smoked or cooked) and often thicker, giving it a unique texture and flavor. ✅ Ingredients 2 lbs (1 kg) beef (silverside or top round works best) ½ cup vinegar (apple cider or malt vinegar) 2 tbsp coarse salt 2 tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp ground coriander 1 tsp black pepper 1 tsp paprika (optional for heat) ½ tsp ground cloves (optional) 👩‍🍳...

  🥧 Traditional South African Milk Tart (Melktert) Recipe Discover the authentic South African Milk Tart (Melktert) recipe – a creamy custard pie with a buttery crust, cinnamon topping, and rich flavor. Step-by-step instructions, FAQs, and serving tips included. 🇿🇦 What is Milk Tart (Melktert)? Milk Tart, known locally as Melktert , is a beloved South African dessert made with a sweet pastry crust filled with a silky, custard-like milk filling and finished with a dusting of cinnamon. Light, creamy, and not overly sweet, this tart is a staple at family gatherings, bakeries, and special occasions. ✅ Ingredients For the Pastry: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup butter, chilled and cubed 2 tbsp sugar 1 egg yolk 2–3 tbsp cold water For the Filling: 2 cups milk 2 tbsp butter ½ cup sugar 2 tbsp flour 2 tbsp cornstarch 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract Ground cinnamon for topping 👩‍🍳 Instructions Make the Crust: In a bowl, rub butter into flour and sugar unt...

  🍞 Traditional South African Vetkoek Recipe Learn how to make authentic South African Vetkoek – golden fried bread rolls that are crispy outside and fluffy inside. Includes step-by-step recipe, serving ideas, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇿🇦 What is Vetkoek? Vetkoek, meaning “fat cake” in Afrikaans, is a traditional South African fried bread. These golden buns are crispy on the outside and soft inside, often served with savory mince, curry, or sweet fillings like jam and syrup. Vetkoek is popular at street food stalls, markets, and braais. ✅ Ingredients 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp instant dry yeast 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt 2 cups warm water (adjust as needed) Oil for deep frying 👩‍🍳 Instructions In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size. Punch down dough, divide into balls or flat roun...

  🍢 Traditional South African Sosaties Recipe Make authentic South African Sosaties – delicious marinated meat skewers perfect for braais. Includes step-by-step recipe, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇿🇦 What are Sosaties? Sosaties are South African kebabs , traditionally made with cubes of meat (often lamb or chicken) marinated in a flavorful Cape Malay–style sauce and then grilled on skewers. The name comes from Dutch/Afrikaans, combining “sate” (skewered meat) and “saus” (sauce) . They’re a staple at braais (barbecues) and often include vegetables or dried fruit for extra flavor. ✅ Ingredients 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb, beef, or chicken (cubed) 2 large onions, sliced 2 tbsp vegetable oil 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tbsp curry powder 1 tsp turmeric 1 tsp paprika 2 tbsp apricot jam or chutney 2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice 1 cup plain yogurt (for tenderizing) Salt and pepper to taste Skewers (wooden or metal) Optional: bell peppers, dried apricots,...

  🍲 Traditional South African Pap Recipe Learn how to make authentic South African Pap – a soft maize porridge that’s a staple side dish for braais. Easy step-by-step recipe, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇿🇦 What is Pap? Pap is a traditional South African dish made from maize meal (cornmeal) , cooked into a smooth or crumbly porridge. It’s a staple food served at braais (barbecues), alongside stews, or with tomato-and-onion relish. Depending on consistency, it can be soft (slap pap), medium (stywe pap), or crumbly (krummel pap). ✅ Ingredients 2 cups maize meal (white cornmeal) 4 cups water (or more for softer pap) ½ tsp salt 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richer flavor) 👩‍🍳 Instructions Bring water and salt to a boil in a large pot. Slowly add maize meal while stirring to avoid lumps. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For slap pap (soft) : use more water and stir frequently for a smooth texture. Fo...

  🌭 Traditional South African Boerewors Recipe Make authentic South African Boerewors at home – a flavorful spiced sausage that’s perfect for grilling or braais. Includes ingredients, step-by-step recipe, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇿🇦 What is Boerewors? Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage made with ground beef (often mixed with pork or lamb), vinegar, and a blend of spices like coriander, cloves, and nutmeg. The name comes from Afrikaans: “boer” (farmer) + “wors” (sausage) . It’s a staple at South African braais (barbecues) and is celebrated for its juicy, smoky, and spiced flavor. ✅ Ingredients 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef (70% lean) 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground pork or lamb ½ cup vinegar (malt or red wine vinegar) 2 tbsp ground coriander seeds (toasted) 1 tsp ground cloves 1 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp allspice 1 tbsp black pepper 2 tsp salt 1–2 meters natural sausage casing 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare Casings – Rinse sausage casi...

  🍛 Dublin Curry Recipe – Irish Takeaway-Style Curry Learn how to make authentic Dublin Curry, the iconic Irish takeaway-style curry sauce. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇮🇪 What is Dublin Curry? Dublin Curry, sometimes called Irish Curry Sauce , is a rich, mildly spiced curry sauce often served with chips (fries), chicken, or rice . It’s a comfort-food classic found in Irish takeaways, blending mild curry flavors with a smooth and slightly sweet sauce. ✅ Ingredients 2 tbsp butter or oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp curry powder (mild or medium) 1 tsp turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tbsp plain flour 500ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable stock 1 tbsp tomato paste 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tsp sugar (optional, for sweetness) Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh coriander (optional, for garnish) 👩‍🍳 Instructions Heat butter/oil in a saucepan. Add onions and garlic, sauté until s...

  🌶️ Homemade Portuguese Piri Piri Sauce Recipe "Homemade Portuguese Piri Piri Sauce – a fiery chili, garlic, and lemon sauce that’s perfect as a marinade, dip, or condiment. Authentic, spicy, and easy to make!" If you love spicy food, you need to try Piri Piri Sauce – the fiery Portuguese chili sauce that gives dishes like Piri Piri Chicken their signature kick. Made with bird’s eye chilies, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, this sauce is tangy, smoky, and bursting with flavor. Whether you use it as a marinade, dipping sauce, or condiment, this homemade Piri Piri sauce will add authentic Portuguese flair to your cooking. ⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe Authentic Portuguese flavor – made with simple, real ingredients. Versatile – use as a marinade, dip, or drizzle. Customizable spice level – adjust chilies for mild or fiery heat. Better than store-bought – fresh, preservative-free, and vibrant. 🥘 Ingredients 8–10 red bird’s eye chilies (or substitute with red...

  🍛 Traditional South African Bobotie Recipe Discover how to make authentic South African Bobotie – a spiced minced meat casserole topped with a golden egg custard. Includes step-by-step recipe, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes. 🇿🇦 What is Bobotie? Bobotie is a beloved South African national dish , often considered comfort food. It’s a flavorful casserole made with spiced minced meat, dried fruit, and a creamy egg custard topping . With its sweet and savory balance, Bobotie reflects South Africa’s Cape Malay heritage and is enjoyed across the country. ✅ Ingredients 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter 2 onions, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp curry powder 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground coriander 500g (1 lb) minced beef or lamb 2 slices white bread, soaked in milk and squeezed dry ½ cup raisins or sultanas 2 tbsp fruit chutney or apricot jam 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice 2 large eggs 1 cup milk Bay leaves for garnish Salt and peppe...

  🌶️ Authentic South African Chakalaka Recipe Learn how to make authentic South African Chakalaka – a spicy vegetable relish served with bread, pap, or braai dishes. Easy recipe, serving suggestions, FAQs, and similar recipes included! 🥘 What is Chakalaka? Chakalaka is a flavorful South African vegetable relish, typically made with onions, tomatoes, carrots, beans, and spices. It’s a staple side dish at barbecues ( braai ), often paired with grilled meat, bread, or pap (maize porridge). ✅ Ingredients 2 tbsp oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 red bell pepper, chopped 2 carrots, grated 2 tomatoes, chopped 1 green chili, chopped (optional) 1 tsp curry powder 1 can baked beans in tomato sauce Salt and pepper to taste Fresh coriander for garnish 👩‍🍳 Instructions Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, bell pepper, and chili, cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in grated carrots, tomatoes, and curry powder. Cook until tomatoes so...

  🍛 Bunny Chow Recipe (South African Curry in Bread) "Learn how to make Bunny Chow – South Africa’s famous street food of curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Authentic Durban-style recipe with serving suggestions and FAQs." Bunny Chow is a legendary South African street food from Durban, consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. Originally created by the Indian community in South Africa, Bunny Chow has become a beloved dish across the country. Whether made with chicken, lamb, beef, or beans, it’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. ⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe Authentic Durban street food 🇿🇦 Comforting curry served in bread – no plates needed Versatile: can be made with meat, chicken, or vegetarian filling Great for parties, game nights, or family dinners 🥘 Ingredients 1 large white loaf of bread (unsliced) 500g chicken (or lamb, beef, or mixed vegetables), cubed 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, chopped 3 clove...

  🍮 Traditional Malva Pudding Recipe Malva Pudding is a classic South African dessert known for its rich, spongy texture and caramelized flavor. Made with apricot jam and soaked in a sweet buttery cream sauce, this pudding is warm, comforting, and perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or a cozy winter night. 🥘 Ingredients For the pudding: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 2 large eggs 2 tbsp apricot jam 1 cup milk 1 tsp baking soda 1 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider) 2 tbsp butter (melted) 1/4 tsp salt For the sauce: 1 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup hot water 1 tsp vanilla extract 👩‍🍳 Instructions Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish. Make batter – In a bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light. Add apricot jam and melted butter. Mix dry ingredients – Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Combine – Add flour mixture alternately with milk and vinegar. Mix until smooth. Bake – Pour into the baki...

  🌿 Authentic Pesto alla Genovese Recipe Pesto alla Genovese is a classic Italian sauce from Genoa, Liguria, made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil . Its name comes from the Italian word “pestare” , which means “to crush,” referring to the traditional method of preparing it in a mortar and pestle. This fragrant green sauce is simple, versatile, and a must-have in every kitchen. 🥬 Ingredients 2 cups fresh basil leaves (washed and dried) 2 garlic cloves 1/3 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted) 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino) 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Salt to taste 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare basil – Wash basil leaves and pat them dry to prevent water from thinning the sauce. Crush ingredients – Traditionally, use a mortar and pestle to crush garlic, pine nuts, and basil until smooth. (You can also use a food processor for convenience.) Add cheese – Mix in Parmesan cheese for creaminess. Pour olive oil – Slowly driz...

  🍘 Arancini Recipe – Crispy Italian Rice Balls Arancini are golden, crispy Italian rice balls made from creamy risotto, stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables, then breaded and deep-fried to perfection. Originating in Sicily, Arancini are a popular street food and appetizer that’s crunchy on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside. This recipe will guide you step by step to make authentic arancini at home – perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party dish. 📝 Ingredients 3 cups cooked risotto (cooled, ideally from the day before) 1 cup mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes) ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated) 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs (beaten) 2 cups breadcrumbs Vegetable oil (for frying) Optional filling: cooked ground beef with tomato sauce or peas 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare risotto – Use leftover risotto or make fresh and cool completely. Shape balls – Take a small handful of risotto, flatten slightly, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, an...

  🍖 Osso Buco Recipe – Classic Italian Braised Veal Shanks Osso Buco, which means “bone with a hole” in Italian, is a traditional Milanese dish made by braising veal shanks with vegetables, white wine, and broth until melt-in-your-mouth tender. This comforting Italian classic is finished with a fresh gremolata (lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) and often served with risotto alla Milanese, polenta, or mashed potatoes. It’s a rich, hearty meal that’s perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions. 📝 Ingredients 4 veal shanks (about 1 ½ inches thick) ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging) 3 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 medium onion (chopped) 1 carrot (chopped) 1 celery stalk (chopped) 3 garlic cloves (minced) 1 cup dry white wine 2 cups beef or veal broth 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes 2 bay leaves 1 sprig fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried) 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) Salt and black pepper to taste For Gremolata (Optional but Traditional): 2 tbsp ...

  🧄 Garlic Cream Chicken Recipe – Easy Creamy Chicken Dinner Garlic Cream Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish made with tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a velvety garlic cream sauce. This one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and tastes just like something you’d order in a restaurant – but much easier to make at home. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food. 📝 Ingredients 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into cutlets) 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp butter 6–8 garlic cloves (minced) 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + thyme) 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) Salt and black pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare the chicken – Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear – Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set ...

  🌟 Linzer Biscuit Recipe – Austrian Christmas Cookies Linzer Biscuits (or Linzer Cookies ) are classic Austrian treats made from buttery almond dough sandwiched with jam, usually raspberry or apricot. They are a festive favorite during Christmas but delicious year-round. Their delicate nutty flavor, crumbly texture, and jewel-like jam centers make them a showstopper on any dessert table. 📝 Ingredients 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds) ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) ½ cup granulated sugar 1 large egg yolk 1 tsp vanilla extract ½ tsp cinnamon (optional) Pinch of salt ½ cup raspberry or apricot jam Powdered sugar (for dusting) 👩‍🍳 Instructions Make the dough – In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolk, vanilla, almond flour, and mix. Slowly add flour, cinnamon, and salt. Form dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour. Roll & cut – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough on a f...

  🍋 Chicken Francese Recipe – Italian Lemon Chicken Cutlets Chicken Francese (also called Chicken Française ) is a classic Italian-American chicken dish where tender chicken cutlets are lightly battered, pan-fried, and served in a buttery lemon-wine sauce. It’s similar to Chicken Piccata but with a delicate egg coating instead of flour dredging. This dish is bright, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. 📝 Ingredients 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin cutlets) ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging) 2 large eggs (beaten) 3 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided) ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) ½ cup chicken broth Juice of 1 large lemon 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) Salt and black pepper to taste Lemon slices (for garnish) 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare the chicken – Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, then dip into beaten eggs. Pan-fry – Heat o...

  🍋 Chicken Piccata Recipe – Classic Italian Lemon Chicken Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish made with tender chicken breasts, pan-fried until golden, and served in a bright, tangy lemon-butter sauce with capers. It’s a quick, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining. 📝 Ingredients 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into cutlets) ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging) 3 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided) ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) ½ cup chicken broth Juice of 1 large lemon 2 tbsp capers (rinsed and drained) 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) Salt and black pepper to taste 👩‍🍳 Instructions Prepare the chicken – Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour. Pan-fry – Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden b...

  🍷 Chicken Marsala Recipe (Authentic Italian-American Style) Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for a weeknight family meal. In this post, you’ll learn how to make authentic Chicken Marsala with step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and variations. 📝 Ingredients 2 large chicken breasts , boneless and skinless (sliced in half horizontally) 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging) 2 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided) 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button, sliced) 2 cloves garlic , minced 1 cup Marsala wine (dry preferred) ¾ cup chicken stock (low sodium) ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier sauce) Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish) 🍳 Instructions Prepare the chicken Slice chicken breasts horizontally to make thinner cutlets. Seaso...