How to Make Prego Roll the South African Way

Originating from the vibrant culinary landscape of South Africa, the Prego Roll is a beloved street food delight that tantalizes taste buds with its bold flavors and hearty satisfaction. This mouthwatering dish features succulent marinated steak, tangy peri-peri sauce, and a medley of fresh toppings, all nestled within a soft Portuguese roll. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch on-the-go or savored during a leisurely weekend barbecue, the Prego Roll promises a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more. Here’s how to recreate this iconic South African dish in your own kitchen:

Ingredients:

For the Marinated Steak:

• 500g beef steak (such as sirloin or rump), thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Peri-Peri Sauce:

• 4-6 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• Soft Portuguese rolls
• Butter, for grilling the rolls
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced onions
• Lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef steak to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the Peri-Peri Sauce: In another bowl, mix together the finely chopped red chilies, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the peri-peri sauce. Adjust the amount of chilies according to your desired level of heat. Set aside.
3. Grill the Steak: Heat a grill pan or barbecue over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Rolls: Slice the Portuguese rolls in half lengthwise and lightly butter the insides. Place the rolls, cut-side down, on the grill or in a separate pan and toast until lightly golden brown.
5. Assemble the Prego Rolls: Spread a generous amount of peri-peri sauce on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with slices of grilled steak, followed by sliced tomatoes, onions, and lettuce leaves. Drizzle with additional peri-peri sauce, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Close the Prego Rolls with the top halves of the toasted rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures as you bite into this South African street food favorite.

With its bold flavors and satisfying combination of tender steak, zesty peri-peri sauce, and fresh toppings, the Prego Roll captures the essence of South African culinary culture in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue with friends or simply craving a taste of adventure, this iconic dish is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of the Prego Roll—the South African way.