Mussels in a spicy tomato sauce (Arrabbiata)
Arrabbiata is a spicy Italian tomato sauce with chillies. In this recipe, we steam mussels in an arrabbiata sauce, which is absolutely delicious with chunks of fresh bread to soak up all the goodness.
Brinjal bake (Parmigiana di melanzane)
Melanzane, is the Italian word for brinjal (egg plant or aubergine, as some may refer to them). And the ever-so-popular version where slices of roasted brinjal are smothered in a rich Italian tomato sauce and baked with cheese on top, is known as Parmigiana di melanzane. This is an absolutely wonderful side dish or starter.
The best Italian tomato sauce
A flavourful and versatile tomato sauce is such an amazing staple to have in your kitchen. It’s really worth making a big batch while you’re at it – do this on the weekend, when you have time. You can add almost any protein to this sauce. For some recipes the sauce can be the base for the meal (see the Easy chicken parmesan in the tips in the recipe) and other times it’s a delicious accompaniment.
Malfatti with an aromatic tomato sauce
Malfatti are rustic, handmade Italian ricotta dumplings. The word translates to ‘poorly made’ so don’t be alarmed if the shapes don’t look absolutely perfect. The delicate dumplings on this rich tomato sauce is so mouth-watering, you will want a second serving of this vegetarian dish.
Homemade chakalaka
Nothing beats an aromatic homemade chakalaka. This tomato sauce or relish (tamatiesous or smoor, in Afrikaans) is a well-known and very popular accompaniment in South Africa, whether you enjoy it with braai meat (braaivleis), like steak, lamb or pork chops, boerewors (sausage) or pap (mealie pap). Chakalaka’s spicier flavour, with fresh ginger, curry powder, fresh chilli, and vegetables like onions and carrots is quite unique. Yes, chakalaka is available in South Africa in tinned form, but nothing beats a homemade version like this recipe. . Make a big batch of chakalaka to use in any of the delicious suggestions in the tips.