01 Sep Heritage Day Vetkoek

There’s something magical about the smell of vetkoek sizzling in hot oil that instantly transports you back to childhood memories and family gatherings. As we celebrate our Heritage, there’s no better way to honour our South African roots than by making this beloved traditional treat from scratch. Vetkoek, literally meaning “fat cake”, is more than just fried bread; it’s a symbol of our shared culinary heritage that crosses cultural boundaries and brings people together around the kitchen table. This Heritage Day vetkoek recipe will help you create new memories while celebrating the flavours that make South Africa truly special.

Vetkoek Dough Ingredients

• 4 cups wholemeal flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon FTN olive oil
• Oil for deep frying

Method

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the lukewarm water and olive oil slowly, mixing until you form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and leave to rise for 1-1 ½ hours, until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into even balls (about the size of a small fist).
6. Heat oil in a deep pot over medium heat – test with a small piece of dough; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
7. Fry each vetkoek until golden brown on both sides, turning once. Drain on paper towels.

Curried Mince Filling Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons FTN olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 500g beef or lamb mince
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 1 tin diced tomatoes
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½–1 teaspoon chilli powder (optional)
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tablespoon fruit chutney
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large pan and sauté the onion until golden and soft.
2. Add the garlic and curry powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chilli powder (if using), frying until fragrant.
3. Stir in the mince and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Add the carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped tomatoes. Mix well.
5. Pour in the stock, reduce the heat, and let simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened. Add a little extra water if needed.
6. Stir in the chutney if using, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from the heat and let rest for a few minutes before filling the vetkoek.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander if desired.

As you bite into your freshly made vetkoek, take a moment to appreciate the generations of South African cooks who have passed down this simple yet cherished recipe. Heritage Day reminds us that food is one of our most powerful connectors – bridging cultures, creating conversations, and keeping traditions alive. Share your vetkoek with family, friends, or neighbours, and watch how this humble fried bread becomes a catalyst for storytelling and connection. After all, the best recipes aren’t just about ingredients and techniques; they’re about the love, history, and community we knead into every batch. Happy Heritage Month, and enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade vetkoek!