We’re giving the classic American Sloppy Joe a flavourful ‘Capetonian’ (of or from Cape Town) twist with our much-loved Cape Herb & Spice Cape Malay Curry. Think fragrant spices, sweet chutney, and juicy mince nestled inside a soft white roll — a mid-winter comfort food treat the whole family will love (especially the kids). It’s hearty, hands-on, and outrageously moreish. A bold fusion of Bo-Kaap spice and all-American comfort food.
Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joes
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- 4 Tbsp Cape Herb & Spice Cape Malay Curry
- 4 Tbsp chutney
- 2 bay leaves
- 1½ cups water
- ¾ cup raisins or sultanas
- 750g beef mince (or lamb for an indulgent twist)
For the Salsa
- 1 punnet baby tomatoes, quartered
- 1 medium red onion, finely sliced
- 1 large handful fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 jalapeño or mild green chilli, finely sliced
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- Pinch of salt
For Serving
- 6 soft white bread rolls
- Chutney, to taste
Method
Step 1: Brown the Mince
Heat a large, heavy-based saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the oil followed by the mince. Brown well — don’t stir too much at first as a bit of crust on the meat adds rich flavour.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices
Once browned, stir in the chopped onion and cook for another 2 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, tomato paste, Cape Malay Curry spice, and salt. Fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chutney, water, and bay leaves. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 40 minutes. Stir occasionally and add a splash more water if it starts to dry out. Add the raisins halfway through.
Cook’s tip: A proper Sloppy Joe should be moist, not soupy — keep it juicy but thick enough to stay in the bun.
Step 4: Make the Salsa
While the mince is simmering, mix together all salsa ingredients in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Slice the bread rolls in half. Pile on the warm spiced mince, then spoon over the zesty salsa. Finish with a drizzle of extra chutney. Pop on the top of the roll and serve immediately.
These are messy in the best possible way — napkins at the ready!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crisp oven fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crunchy slaw for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftover mince keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and is excellent on toast or baked potatoes too.