Bobotie, or South African shepherd's pie

Bobotie is a traditional South African dish, somewhere between a shepherd's pie and a mild curry. Originating from the Cape Malay community, it reflects the country's culinary fusion. This spicy and slightly sweet recipe features minced meat, curry powder, dried fruit, and a creamy egg and milk crust. Traditionally served with turmeric yellow rice and chutneys, it's naturally adaptable to a gluten-free diet. Here, we offer a 100% gluten-free version, faithful to the original recipe but adapted for those with gluten intolerance. Gluten-free bobotie is a comforting dish that reveals the full richness of South African flavors in an accessible format. Travel to the heart of South Africa without leaving your kitchen!

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time 45 minutes

Total time 1 hr

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Special diet: suitable for gluten-free diet

Ingredients

500g minced beef
1 chopped onion
2 cloves of chopped garlic
2 tablespoons of mild curry powder
1/2 tsp of turmeric
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
2 slices of gluten-free bread, soaked in plant-based milk
1 tbsp apricot jam
1 handful of raisins
2 eggs
250 ml of milk (or plant-based milk)
Salt, pepper, olive oil

Preparation

1
Sauté the onion and garlic in a drizzle of olive oil until softened.
2
Add the spices (curry, turmeric) and mix well.
3
Stir in the minced meat, then cook until well browned.
4
Add the crumbled gluten-free bread, vinegar, jam, raisins, salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5
Pour the mixture into a gratin dish.
6
Beat the eggs with the milk, then pour over the meat to form the crust.
7
Bake at 180°C for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
8
Serve hot with turmeric rice and chutney.

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