South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Skewered and grilled to perfection, these marinated lamb chunks are bathed in a tangy-sweet apricot glaze, infused with fragrant curry and warm spices, then threaded with onions and bell peppers for a smoky, tender bite bursting with bold, savory, and fruity richness in every mouthful.

by BdRecipes
Published: Updated:

South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe: South African lamb sosaties are a delicious and flavorful dish that we can easily make at home. These skewered kebabs blend tender lamb with sweet and savory notes from a rich marinade.

This recipe is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal that is high in protein and packed with flavor.

Traditionally enjoyed with sides like potato salad or pap, lamb sosaties can also be paired with vegetables for a balanced plate that is full of nutrients.

Each serving is flavorful and provides a good amount of iron and dietary fiber, contributing to a well-rounded diet. Whether we choose to grill them outdoors or use a backyard grill, this dish is sure to impress.

For those who need dietary accommodations, we can easily adapt the recipe. Substituting certain ingredients can make it gluten-free or align with other dietary preferences. With a little creativity, we can create a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.

Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Why You’ll Love This South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

We adore South African lamb sosaties for their rich flavors and unique combination of sweet and savory. These marinated kebabs feature tender lamb skewered with dried apricots and onions, making them a standout dish.

Here are a few reasons why we can’t get enough of this recipe:

  • Flavorful Marinade: The yogurt-based curry marinade tenderizes the meat and adds depth to each bite.
  • Perfect for Grilling: Sosaties are ideal for a South African braai. Their robust flavors shine when cooked over an open fire.
  • Versatile Ingredients: We can easily customize these lamb kebabs with our favorite vegetables or different types of meat.
  • Quick Preparation: With simple steps to prepare, we can have these delicious skewered meats ready in no time.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family gathering or a barbecue with friends, these kabobs are sure to impress.

In short, South African sosaties provide a delicious way to enjoy grilled meat, making any meal special. With their charming blend of flavors and simple preparation, they are a must-try dish for any occasion.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The South African Lamb Sosaties reflect our rich culinary heritage. These kebabs are more than just a dish; they represent a social cooking tradition known as braai.

We use quality lamb, which is tender and flavorful. The marinating process adds a unique blend of spices, bringing out the meat’s natural taste. Key ingredients include:

  • Dried apricots: Offering a sweet contrast to the savory lamb.
  • Onions: Adding depth and complexity.
  • Traditional spices: Ingredients like curry powder and cumin enhance the dish with warmth and aroma.

Cooking these sosaties over an open flame creates a smoky flavor that elevates our grilling experience. The act of gathering around the grill fosters connection and camaraderie.

This dish is also versatile. We can customize it based on our preferences. For a healthier option, we choose lean cuts of meat and incorporate lots of vegetables on the skewers.

As we enjoy our South African Lamb Sosaties, we savor both the flavors and the shared moments they create. This recipe emphasizes the joy of cooking together and celebrating our culture.

Cooking Equipment Needed

To make South African Lamb Sosaties, we need some specific cooking equipment for the best results.

Grill or Barbecue
A grill or barbecue is essential for cooking our sosaties. We can use either a gas or charcoal grill, depending on our preference for flavor.

Skewers
We will need skewers, also known as kabob skewers or meat skewers. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for about 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning. Metal skewers can be reused without soaking.

Marinating Container
A large plastic or glass container is perfect for mixing and storing our marinade. This will help the flavors soak into the meat.

Grilling Tools
Having grilling tools like tongs and a spatula is important. These tools will help us turn the sosaties easily while they cook.

Basting Brush
A basting brush will be useful for applying any extra marinade to the sosaties while they grill. This adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.

Serving Platter
Finally, a serving platter is essential for presenting our cooked sosaties. It allows us to serve the dish in style.

With this equipment, we can prepare and enjoy delicious South African Lamb Sosaties.

Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Cooking Instructions

To make South African Lamb Sosaties, we start with the marinade.

In a large pot, heat a little olive oil and sauté chopped onion until light brown. Add crushed garlic cloves, coriander seeds, curry powder, and a pinch of ground cinnamon to enhance the flavors.

Next, combine the sautéed mixture with apricot jam and a teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and let it cool completely.

While the marinade cools, we can prepare the lamb. Cut it into bite-sized cubes.

Once the marinade is cool, add the lamb to the bowl and ensure it is well-coated. We should let it marinate for at least an hour, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

After marinating, we can prepare our skewers.

Using soaked wooden skewers, thread the marinated lamb, along with pieces of dried apricot and onion chunks. This adds a sweet taste and a nice texture.

Now, it’s time for grilling.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is browned and cooked through.

Serve the sosaties with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the unique tastes of this Malay-style sauce combined with tender lamb!

Cooking Tips

To make the best South African lamb sosaties, we should focus on the marination process. A well-marinated lamb will absorb flavors deeply.

Marination

  • Time: Marinate the lamb for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the lamb to soak in the flavors of spices, vinegar, and sweetness from brown sugar or dried apricots.
  • Ingredients: Include garlic, ground ginger, and spices like cumin and black pepper. Adding bay leaves and cardamom pods enhances the aroma.

Preparing Ingredients

  • Onions: Use red onions or pearl onions; they add sweetness. Soften them in vegetable oil before mixing with the marinade.
  • Dried Apricots: These add a unique sweetness. Cut them in halves and thread them with the lamb.

Cooking Methods

  • Grilling: We should cook sosaties over medium heat to avoid burning. Baste them with reserved marinade for added flavor.
  • Alternative: For a rich taste, we can use dry red wine or red wine vinegar in the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your sosaties with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This balances the meal and enhances the flavors of the lamb.

These tips will help you create a delicious dish that showcases the unique flavor profile of South African sosaties.

Ingredients For the South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Plain Yogurt
Curry Powder
White Sugar
Vegetable Oil
Onion
Lamb
Dried Apricots
Kabob Skewers

Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Cooking Instructions For the South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Preparing the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, curry powder, sugar, and oil, stirring until well mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Assembling the Kabobs
Peel the onion and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Thread the skewers, alternating between lamb cubes, onion pieces, and dried apricot halves. Place the assembled kabobs into a large resealable bag and pour in the prepared sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Refrigerate and let them marinate overnight or for at least 8 hours.

Grilling the Kabobs
Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Cook the kabobs over medium coals for 8 to 10 minutes per side or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.

Lamb Sosaties Recipe

FAQ For the South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Question: What is a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe?

A: A South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe is a traditional dish featuring marinated lamb skewers grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes a mix of spices, vinegar, apricot jam, and curry powder, creating a sweet and tangy flavor.

Question: What ingredients are needed for a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe?

A: A South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe usually includes lamb cubes, dried apricots, onions, bell peppers, and a marinade made with vinegar, apricot jam, curry powder, garlic, and spices. Some variations may add bay leaves or mustard seeds for extra depth.

Question: How long should the meat marinate in a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe?

A: In a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe, the lamb should marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight marination is recommended. This allows the flavors to absorb fully, ensuring tender and flavorful meat when grilled.

Question: What is the best way to cook a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe?

A: A South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe is best cooked on a grill or over an open flame. The skewers should be turned regularly for even cooking, with a total cook time of about 10–15 minutes, depending on the heat level.

Question: Can a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe be made with other meats?

A: Yes, a South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe can be adapted using chicken, beef, or even game meats. While lamb is the traditional choice, the marinade works well with different proteins, providing a flavorful result.

South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

South African Lamb Sosaties Recipe

Skewered and grilled to perfection, these marinated lamb chunks are bathed in a tangy-sweet apricot glaze, infused with fragrant curry and warm spices, then threaded with onions and bell peppers for a smoky, tender bite bursting with bold, savory, and fruity richness in every mouthful.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinade Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine South African
Servings 8 Kabobs
Calories 232 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Plain Yogurt
  • 2 tsp Curry Powder
  • 1 tbsp White Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
  • 1 Onion large
  • 1 cup Lamb stew meat cubed
  • 12 oz Dried Apricots
  • 8 Kabob Skewers

Instructions
 

Preparing the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, curry powder, sugar, and oil, stirring until well mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Assembling the Kabobs

  • Peel the onion and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Thread the skewers, alternating between lamb cubes, onion pieces, and dried apricot halves. Place the assembled kabobs into a large resealable bag and pour in the prepared sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Refrigerate and let them marinate overnight or for at least 8 hours.

Grilling the Kabobs

  • Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Cook the kabobs over medium coals for 8 to 10 minutes per side or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.

Notes

Allow the meat to marinate in a good sauce for up to 8 hours before grilling time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 232kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 37mgPotassium: 634mgFiber: 4gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 1568IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 2mg
Keyword lamb, Vegetables
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

 

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1 comment

BdRecipes February 26, 2025 - 7:45 pm

5 stars
I tried making South African Lamb Sosaties for the first time, and it was a hit! The lamb turned out tender, and the marinade added just the right amount of flavor. My guests were impressed with the balance of spices. Everyone agreed the skewers were juicy and flavorful, and they kept coming back for more. It was a great recipe that I’ll definitely make again!

Comments are closed.

5 from 1 vote
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