Tomato Bredie, known locally as “tamatiebredie,” is a traditional South African stew celebrated for its rich, hearty flavors and tender meat. This dish combines succulent lamb or mutton with a savory tomato-based sauce, spiced with aromatic herbs and spices. Originating from the Cape Malay community, Tomato Bredie reflects a fusion of culinary influences and has become a beloved comfort food across South Africa.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Stew:

1.5 kilograms (3 ⅓ lbs) lamb or mutton, cut into chunks
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 kilogram (2 lbs) fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
750 grams (1 ⅔ lbs) potatoes, peeled and quartered
2 liters (8 cups) water or beef stock
2 bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
4 cardamom pods
1-2 green chilies, slit (optional, for added heat)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Spice Mix:

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cloves

Directions

Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, chili powder, and ground cloves. Mix well and set aside.
Brown the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb or mutton pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
Incorporate Spices: Add the prepared spice mix to the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Combine Meat and Simmer: Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and green chilies if using. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the water or beef stock, ensuring the meat is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
Add Potatoes: Add the quartered potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Remove the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods before serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings)

Calories: Approximately 466 kcal
Protein: 51 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Dietary Fiber: 6 g
- Sugars: 13 g
Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 142 mg
Sodium: 1,364 mg
Potassium: 1,522 mg
Vitamin A: 604 IU
Vitamin C: 38 mg
Calcium: 114 mg
Iron: 7 mg

The Origins of Tomato Bredie

Tomato Bredie has its roots in South Africa’s rich cultural history, with influences from various communities that have shaped the nation’s culinary landscape. The dish is thought to have originated from the Cape Malay community, who were brought to South Africa as slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries. This cultural blend brought spices, herbs, and techniques that would later become staples of South African cuisine.

The word “bredie” comes from the Dutch word “braden,” which refers to a slow-cooked stew. Bredie dishes were commonly made using inexpensive cuts of meat, like lamb or mutton, and were cooked slowly to tenderize the tough meat. The slow-cooking process also allows the rich flavors to meld together, creating a dish that is hearty, full of depth, and satisfying. Tomato Bredie specifically uses tomatoes as the base, which was a common adaptation by the Cape Malay community, who added tomatoes to the original bredie recipe for additional flavor and sweetness.

Tomato Bredie is often made in large batches, perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or as a comforting meal to be shared with friends. While lamb is the traditional choice for this dish, mutton is also commonly used, providing a richer, stronger flavor that pairs well with the aromatic spices and tangy tomatoes.

The Key Ingredients and Flavors of Tomato Bredie

At the heart of Tomato Bredie is the balance between the tender meat, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. The base of the dish is often created by sautéing onions, garlic, and sometimes ginger, which form the flavor foundation. The addition of fresh tomatoes, often peeled and chopped, imparts a natural sweetness and acidity to the stew, which is perfectly balanced by the depth of flavor from the meat and spices.

Tomato Bredie also features a selection of spices that bring warmth and complexity to the dish. Commonly used spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and chili powder. These spices reflect the rich and diverse influences on South African cuisine, combining elements of African, Indian, and European cooking traditions. The combination of these spices not only adds complexity but also imparts warmth to the dish, making it especially appealing during colder seasons.

One of the most defining elements of Tomato Bredie is the way it uses meat to enhance the flavor profile. Lamb or mutton is the preferred meat for the dish, as it complements the savory, sweet, and spicy components of the stew. The slow-cooking method ensures that the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the tomato sauce and spices, making it the perfect accompaniment to the rich broth.

Potatoes are another key ingredient in Tomato Bredie, adding substance and bulk to the dish. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and provide a hearty texture, making it a complete meal. The potatoes also help to thicken the sauce, giving the dish a satisfying and comforting consistency.

The Cooking Process: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

The cooking method for Tomato Bredie is essential in achieving the dish’s rich and tender qualities. Like many stews and bredies, Tomato Bredie relies on slow cooking to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become fall-apart tender. The process typically involves browning the meat in a pot to lock in the flavors before adding the onions, garlic, and spices to create the base of the stew.

Once the meat and vegetables are combined, tomatoes are added to create the sauce. Fresh tomatoes, either chopped or pureed, offer a natural sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the meat and spices. Tomato paste is often added for depth of flavor, creating a thick and savory sauce. The dish is then simmered for several hours, allowing the flavors to marry and the meat to soften to perfection.

The final step in making Tomato Bredie involves adding the potatoes to the pot. The potatoes are allowed to cook until tender, absorbing the delicious flavors from the sauce and thickening the broth. The slow-cooked nature of this dish allows each ingredient to contribute to the overall depth of flavor, creating a dish that is rich, hearty, and satisfying.

Nutritional Value of Tomato Bredie

Tomato Bredie is a well-rounded and nutritious meal that provides a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The lamb or mutton used in the dish is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. The inclusion of potatoes adds complex carbohydrates, providing energy and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Tomatoes are another key ingredient in Tomato Bredie and contribute not only to the flavor but also to the nutritional value of the dish. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. They also provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

The spices used in Tomato Bredie are not only aromatic but also beneficial to health. For example, cumin and coriander have been shown to aid in digestion, while turmeric, a key ingredient in many South African and Indian dishes, has anti-inflammatory properties that can support overall health. Cinnamon and ginger are also known for their digestive benefits, as well as their ability to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

The dish is also a good source of fiber, especially if served with additional vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making this a nutritious option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.

Serving Tomato Bredie

Tomato Bredie is often served with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors and hearty nature. Traditional accompaniments include rice, which helps to absorb the flavorful sauce, or bread, which is perfect for dipping. The dish can also be served with a simple side salad, made with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing to provide a contrast to the richness of the stew.

In South Africa, Tomato Bredie is commonly enjoyed as a family meal or served at gatherings and celebrations. It is the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s shared at a Sunday dinner or at a special occasion with friends and loved ones. The stew can be made in large quantities, making it perfect for gatherings, and leftovers often taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.

Tomato Bredie can also be paired with a variety of beverages, including a crisp white wine or a light beer, which can help cut through the richness of the dish. A refreshing drink such as iced tea or a lemon-lime soda can also provide a nice balance to the savory flavors of the stew.

Conclusion

Tomato Bredie is more than just a stew; it is a dish that embodies the warmth, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage of South Africa. With its tender meat, hearty potatoes, and fragrant spices, Tomato Bredie offers a fulfilling and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a family dinner or as part of a larger celebration, Tomato Bredie brings people together with its delicious flavors and satisfying texture.

Pin1

1 Shares