Bobotie is the national dish of South Africa. It is the accumulation of many different influences that have passed through that region over the years. Tamarind can be hard to find. Look for it in an international store or the international aisles in the bigger supermarkets. It has a flavor that is truly unique. Like a traditional meatloaf, this meal has many variations, so feel free to substitute ingredients.
2 Oz. Tamarind Paste
2 Slices White Bread, torn
½ c. Whole Milk
2 Lb. Ground Beef
¼ C. Almonds, sliced
3 Tbsp. Golden Raisins
3 Eggs
2 Tbsp. Butter
2 Lg. Yellow Onions, chopped
3 Garlic Cloves, chopped
2 Tbsp. Curry
1 Tbsp. Sugar
2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
Mix tamarind with ½ C. water. Set aside. In large bowl, soak the bread with ¼ C milk. Heat butter in skillet. Sauté onions and garlic. When onions are just beginning to soften, add the curry and sugar. Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes. Add beef to skillet. Cook until beef is done and browned, breaking up into small pieces. Transfer to bowl with the bread. Add the tamarind, lemon juice, raisins and 3 Tbsp. almonds. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly. Add 2 eggs, slightly beaten. Mix well. Transfer to a 9” deep pie plate. Press down meat mixture to compact. In bowl, whisk egg and remaining milk. Season with salt and pepper. Pour on top. Sprinkle top with remaining almonds. Bake about 30 minutes, until egg is set and cooked through. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing.
