There’s something universally comforting about a hearty beef stew simmering on the stove, but in South Africa, this simple dish is an occasion in itself. Whether it’s enjoyed at a family braai or a chilly evening gathered indoors, beef stew and dumplings South Africa–style carry a nostalgic warmth. Today, we’re celebrating this much-loved meal by sharing a traditional beef stew recipe South Africa with pillowy dumplings cooked right on top, just like Ouma made in her potjie.
The heritage of South African stew beef recipes
A classic South African stew beef recipe borrows from a blend of cultures, reflecting the rich history of our country. What we know as beef potjiekos is a staple at weekend get-togethers and symbolic of togetherness. Typically layered in a three-legged pot over live coals, meat, veg, and heady aromas fill the air. But even if you don’t have a potjie, you can create this magic in a standard cast iron pot right in your kitchen.
The humble dumpling, or “kluitjie” as many South Africans fondly call it, is always a treat. These fluffy additions take the beef potjiekos recipe from ordinary to extraordinary, especially when they soak up all the rich, beefy gravy.
The ultimate beef stew recipe South Africa loves
Ingredients
For the stew:
- 1 kg stewing beef (chuck or brisket, cut into large cubes)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp sunflower oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, quartered
- 2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 tin peeled tomatoes)
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the dumplings in stew:
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk (add more if needed)
- 1 egg (optional, for richer dumplings)
- Chopped parsley, to garnish
Method
Step 1: Prepare your Stew
- Coat the beef cubes lightly in flour, shaking off any extra.
- In a heavy pot or potjie, heat sunflower oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef pieces in batches and set them aside.
- Sauté the onions until golden brown, then stir in the garlic and cook for about a minute.
- Add the browned beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, beef stock, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Season to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add water if the liquid reduces too much.
Step 2: Make the Dumplings (Kluitjies)
- Mix flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
- Rub in the butter with your fingers until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Whisk milk (and egg if using) together, then stir into the flour to form a soft dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the bubbling stew, spacing slightly apart. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and steam for 20–25 minutes without lifting the lid, until the dumplings in stew are puffed up.
- Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Tips for a perfect beef potjiekos recipe
- Low and Slow: Real South African stew beef recipe magic comes from slow-simmering, which transforms tougher cuts into buttery richness.
- Don’t Peek: Keep the lid shut while steaming dumplings in potjie or on the stove to prevent them from collapsing.
- Mix it up: Try adding butternut or sweet potato for extra sweetness, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Make it yours: Whether you were raised on beef dumplings or beef dumpling stew, this dish adapts well to every family’s traditions.
Beef potjiekos with dumplings: A stew-pendous delight
Beef stew and dumplings south africa–style are more than a meal. They’re a celebration of community and local flavour. Pair your potjie with pap or fluffy white rice, and make sure everyone gets a dumpling (or two). With this beef recipe South Africa loves, your home will always feel welcoming—even on the chilliest winter’s night.
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