Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is a city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and diverse culinary scene. When it comes to street food, Pretoria offers a delightful array of flavors and traditional South African dishes. Exploring the street food scene in Pretoria is a must for food enthusiasts. Here are some must-try South African street foods in Pretoria that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the local culinary culture.
- Pap and Boerewors:
Pap and Boerewors is a classic South African street food combination that you shouldn’t miss in Pretoria. Pap is a staple food made from maize meal and has a porridge-like consistency. Boerewors, a traditional South African sausage, is grilled to perfection and served alongside the pap. The flavorful boerewors and the comforting pap make for a satisfying and hearty street food experience. - Kota:
The Kota is a popular street food in Pretoria, consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with various fillings. The fillings can range from polony (processed meat), cheese, chips (fries), and atchar (spicy pickle) to more adventurous options like chicken livers or steak. The Kota is a delicious handheld meal that combines different flavors and textures. Look for food stalls or vendors selling Kotas in bustling areas like the city center or popular marketplaces. - Vetkoek:
Vetkoek, meaning “fat cake” in Afrikaans, is a beloved South African street food that is also widely enjoyed in Pretoria. It is a deep-fried dough ball that can be filled with savory or sweet fillings. Savory fillings often include minced meat, curried chicken, or cheese and ham, while sweet options include syrup or cinnamon sugar. Vetkoek is a satisfying and indulgent street food that is sure to delight your taste buds. - Biltong:
Biltong is a popular South African snack and a must-try street food in Pretoria. It is a form of dried and cured meat, typically beef, that is seasoned with a blend of spices like coriander, black pepper, and salt. Biltong is often thinly sliced and enjoyed as a savory snack. You can find biltong in various flavors and cuts, from beef biltong sticks to thinly sliced beef biltong packets, at local markets, specialty stores, and even some supermarkets in Pretoria. - Melktert:
To satisfy your sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Melktert, a traditional South African milk tart. This sweet treat consists of a buttery pastry crust filled with a creamy, cinnamon-infused custard. Melktert is a popular dessert and street food in Pretoria. Look for local bakeries, coffee shops, or food stalls that serve this delightful South African specialty.
When in Pretoria, immerse yourself in the local street food culture and try these must-try South African street foods. From the classic combination of Pap and Boerewors to the flavorful Kota, Vetkoek, biltong, and sweet Melktert, each bite will introduce you to the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of South Africa. So, venture out into the streets of Pretoria and savor these delicious street foods that will leave you craving for more.
