Introduction

This cherished Mince Curry recipe comes straight from the heart of Cape Malay cuisine, where fragrant spices, tender minced meat, and comforting potatoes come together in a rich, aromatic gravy. Paired with flaky, buttery roti, this dish is a beloved staple in South African homes, especially in Cape Town’s vibrant Malay community. What makes this curry special is its perfect balance of warmth, spice, and depth, achieved through a blend of whole and ground spices that have been passed down through generations.

The addition of potatoes and peas makes this a hearty, one-pot meal, while the fresh dhanya (coriander) garnish adds a bright, herbal finish. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering dish, this mince curry carries the soulful flavors of tradition, inviting you to experience the warmth of Cape Malay cooking.

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Recipe: Salwaa’s Mince Curry with Flaky Roti

Ingredients

For the Mince Curry:

• 500g steak mince (beef or lamb)
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 large tomato, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chillies, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp garlic & ginger paste
• Whole spices:
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 cardamom pods
• 3 cloves
• 3 allspice (pimento) berries
• Ground spices:
• 2 heaped tsp leaf masala / roasted masala
• 1 tsp chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 heaped tsp ground cumin
• 1 heaped tsp ground coriander
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh dhanya (coriander), chopped, for garnish

For the Flaky Roti:

(If making from scratch, otherwise use store-bought roti)

• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp oil or ghee
• ¾ cup warm water
• Extra ghee or butter for layering

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mince Curry

Sauté the Aromatics:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, allspice) and let them sizzle for 30 seconds to release their fragrance.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in garlic & ginger paste, green chillies (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.

Brown the Mince:

1. Add the mince, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Add Spices & Simmer:

1. Sprinkle in ground spices (leaf masala, chilli powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander) and mix well.
2. Add potatoes and enough water to cover the meat and potatoes.
3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in frozen peas and cook for 5 more minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh dhanya (coriander) before serving.

2. Make the Flaky Roti (Optional)

Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix flour, salt, and oil in a bowl.
2. Gradually add warm water, kneading until smooth.
3. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.

Roll & Layer:

1. Divide dough into balls.
2. Roll each ball into a thin circle, brush with ghee or butter, and fold into layers.
3. Roll out again and cook on a hot tawa or pan until golden and flaky.

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Tips for the Best Mince Curry

✔ Toast whole spices first for maximum aroma.
✔ Use ripe tomatoes for a richer gravy.
✔ Simmer on low heat to let flavors meld.
✔ Adjust chilli level to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with flaky roti, basmati rice, or crusty bread.
• Serve with sambals (chutney, sliced onions, or cucumber raita).
• Perfect for meal prep—tastes even better the next day!

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Conclusion

This Mince Curry with Flaky Roti is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Cape Malay heritage, where every bite tells a story of spice routes, family traditions, and home-cooked love. The tender mince, fragrant spices, and hearty potatoes make it a comforting, satisfying dish, while the flaky roti completes the experience.

Whether you’re new to Cape Malay cuisine or revisiting childhood flavors, this recipe brings warmth to the table. Try it today and taste the legacy!

#CapeMalayCooking #ComfortFood #FlavorfulCurry 🌶️🍛