National Dish South Africa: Apricot Sosaties (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Apricot Sosaties, a South African braai favourite that brings sweet and savoury together on a single skewer. Tender marinated meat is threaded alongside plump dried apricots that caramelise beautifully over the coals, while a fragrant curry marinade ties every bite together. Perfect for lazy weekend grilling with friends, these skewers carry a genuine taste of the Cape straight to your table — smoky, fruity and utterly moreish.
About Apricot Sosaties
Apricot Sosaties are a traditional South African dish that strikes an ideal balance between sweet and savoury flavours. These delicious skewers are built around tender, well-marinated meat — typically lamb or pork — threaded with sweet dried apricots that develop a wonderful caramelisation as they grill. The combination of warm spices and the fruity note of the apricots gives every mouthful a distinctive depth of flavour. Made for a relaxed braai, these skewers bring a piece of South African culture directly to the table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g lamb or pork, cut into cubes
- 100 g dried apricots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon wine or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (preferably wooden or metal)
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Apricot Sosaties, you will want fresh, good-quality ingredients. When it comes to the meat, look for cuts that are tender and take a marinade well. Visit your local butcher or a trusted supermarket to find the best produce. The dried apricots are just as important, so it is worth reaching for organic ones where you can, as they tend to give the fullest, sweetest flavour.
Preparing the dish
To draw out the full aroma of the Apricot Sosaties, careful preparation makes all the difference. Begin by cutting the meat into even cubes so that it cooks through uniformly. Next, prepare the marinade by combining the olive oil, garlic, curry powder, vinegar, and salt and pepper until well blended. Leave the meat to marinate for at least an hour so it can properly soak up the flavours.
Step-by-step instructions
- Thread the marinated meat and the apricots onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
- Preheat the grill to a medium heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–15 minutes in total, turning occasionally.
- Add the onion chunks in the final 5 minutes of grilling to give them a lightly charred flavour.
- Take the skewers off the grill, garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve hot.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Apricot Sosaties are easily made gluten-free and lactose-free. Simply make sure the spices and marinade you use are certified gluten-free. Every ingredient in this recipe is naturally free from gluten and lactose, so there is nothing to worry about. That means anyone with an intolerance can enjoy this delicious dish without a second thought.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans and vegetarians there are excellent alternatives to the traditional ingredients. Instead of meat you might use tofu or tempeh, both of which take on the marinade beautifully. Add a variety of vegetables such as peppers and courgettes to the skewers for a colourful, nourishing option. It is also worth investing in vegan spice blends to achieve the same delicious flavour.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tricks can help you perfect your Apricot Sosaties. Use a high-powered blender to combine the marinade thoroughly and develop the flavours to their fullest. If you prepare the skewers in advance, the flavours can soak into the meat overnight, making the final result even tastier. Feel free to experiment with different marinades or spices to add your own personal touch — much as you would with classic Lamb Sosaties.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One of the great advantages of Apricot Sosaties is their flexibility. Adapt the recipe to your own preferences by trying different types of meat or even seafood. You can also vary the mix of candied or fresh fruit to explore different flavour combinations. Be creative and let your imagination run free — the same easygoing spirit that runs through so much South African cuisine.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find certain ingredients or simply prefer something else, there are plenty of alternatives. In place of lamb you could use chicken or even beef, much as you would for Chicken Sosaties. With the spices, feel free to try different combinations to reach the flavour you are after. And instead of dried apricots, peaches or pineapple work well too for a different fruity note.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with your Apricot Sosaties. A fruity white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, makes a harmonious match for the sweet notes of the apricots. Alternatively, serve a refreshing iced tea or a fruity beer, both of which sit well with the spiced and sweet aspects of the dish. You could also experiment with cocktails made from fresh fruit for a lively change of pace.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your Apricot Sosaties can noticeably lift the whole experience. Serve the skewers on a large, rustic wooden board for an inviting look. Garnish with fresh herbs and citrus fruits to add pops of colour. A thoughtful presentation builds anticipation for the meal and makes your braai truly memorable — perfect served alongside grilled staples like Boerewors or a crisp Braaibroodjie.
A bit of history
Apricot Sosaties have their origins in South Africa’s diverse culinary tradition, which draws together influences from many cultures. The pairing of sweet and savoury ingredients is a hallmark of South African cooking, which often plays with flavours from the Middle East and India. Over generations the recipes have evolved, and today sosaties are a much-loved dish at celebrations and braais right across the country. The use of apricots as an ingredient reflects the abundance of fruit for which the region is famous.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Apricot Sosaties
Apricot Sosaties are not just a feast for the palate but a wonderful way to celebrate a piece of South African culture. The harmonious union of marinated meat and sweet apricots makes these skewers a highlight at any braai. Thanks to their endless scope for adaptation and creative preparation, you can tune the dish to suit your tastes exactly. Enjoy the captivating flavours and bring the taste of South Africa to your plate with every single bite.
