National Dish South Africa: Lamb Sosaties (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Lamb Sosaties, a much-loved South African classic of marinated lamb threaded onto skewers and grilled over the coals. These fragrant kebabs bring together tender lamb, chewy dried apricots and warming spices for a moreish balance of sweet and savoury in every bite. A firm favourite at any braai, they turn a simple gathering into a proper celebration and carry all the warmth of Cape cooking to your table.
About Lamb Sosaties
Lamb Sosaties are far more than a traditional South African dish — they are a genuine feast for the senses. These delicious skewers of marinated lamb combine tender flavours with a distinctive mix of sweet and savoury ingredients. They are especially popular at braai evenings and make a perfect choice for special occasions. The addition of dried apricots, almonds and aromatic spices turns every mouthful into a culinary highlight.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 400 g lamb (leg or shoulder, for example)
- 100 g dried apricots
- 50 g almonds, chopped
- 2 onions
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soak wooden ones beforehand)
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for Lamb Sosaties it is important to pay attention to the quality of the lamb. Fresh, well-marbled meat makes for a juicy, flavoursome skewer. You should also take care to choose good-quality, unsweetened dried apricots, as these have a considerable influence on the flavour of the sosaties. Almonds can be bought either raw or roasted, depending on your personal taste and the textures you are after.
Preparing the dish
Before you start putting together the Lamb Sosaties, it helps to gather and prepare all the ingredients. The lamb should be cut into evenly sized cubes so that it cooks through uniformly. The onions can be cut into thicker rings, which also look attractive on the skewers. The dried apricots, meanwhile, should be cut into small pieces so they blend well into the marinade.
Step-by-step instructions
- Put the lamb into a bowl and marinate with olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt and pepper.
- Finely chop the onions and garlic and add them to the marinade.
- Leave the mixture to rest in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight.
- Thread the skewers, alternating lamb, onion, almonds and dried apricots.
- Cook the skewers on the braai or in a griddle pan over medium heat until the meat is cooked through.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The recipe for Lamb Sosaties is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, so you can enjoy it without any worries even if you have such an intolerance. Just make sure that every ingredient you use really is gluten-free, particularly with spice blends and marinades. Use fresh, unfiltered olive oils and avoid any additives. That way you can serve these delicious skewers with complete confidence.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Although Lamb Sosaties are traditionally made with lamb, there are plenty of ways to adapt the dish for vegans and vegetarians. In place of lamb you could use tofu, tempeh or vegetables such as courgette and pepper. The vegetables or plant-based alternatives should be marinated too, so they develop their full flavour. This version is not only healthy but also surprises with a bright variety of colours and different textures on the grill.
More tips and tricks
To get the best Lamb Sosaties, there are a few key tips worth bearing in mind. Turn the skewers regularly so they brown evenly and do not catch. Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling will also stop them from burning. Experiment with different spices and ingredients to adapt the recipe to your own liking. This lets you create a truly personal and individual experience.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The flexibility of Lamb Sosaties means you can shape the recipe entirely around your own preferences. You could use other fruits, such as dates or figs, instead of dried apricots. If you like things spicier, add chilli flakes or a hot sauce to the marinade. Just take care not to lose the balance between sweet and savoury, as that is exactly what gives sosaties their special charm.
Ingredient substitutions
Some ingredients in Lamb Sosaties can easily be swapped for others without any loss of flavour. If you are not keen on lamb, you can use chicken or beef, which also marinate and grill beautifully — much like the tender morsels in Chicken Sosaties or a warming Spiced Lamb Curry. For a vegetarian option you could add chickpea or lentil skewers to the mix. Bear in mind that the cooking times may vary as a result, so it is wise to keep an eye on the skewers while they are on the grill.
Drink pairing ideas
Pairing Lamb Sosaties with the right drink can lift the whole eating experience considerably. A robust red wine goes wonderfully with the spicy aromas of the skewers. Alternatively, a fresh white wine works well, bringing out the sweet notes of the apricots. For a non-alcoholic option, reach for homemade lemonade or a lively Rooibos Iced Tea to complement the sosaties.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of your Lamb Sosaties can have a big impact on the overall impression of the meal. Serve the skewers on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander. Small bowls of different dips, like a yoghurt sauce or spicy chutneys, round off the experience and invite guests to tuck in. A colourful bed of vegetables or salad beneath the skewers adds extra colour to the plate and shows off the quality ingredients. A side of Chakalaka or soft Pap makes the plate feel truly South African.
A bit of history
Lamb Sosaties are a firm fixture of South African cuisine and reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. The dish has its roots in the traditional cooking methods of the Cape, where many different influences came together. These skewers were a popular dish in colonial times and were often served at feasts and gatherings. Today they are enjoyed both in home kitchens and in countless restaurants, representing the warmth and hospitality of South African cooking.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Lamb Sosaties
In summary, Lamb Sosaties are a delicious and versatile dish, suited not only to braai evenings but also to shining at festive occasions. With their combination of sweet and savoury flavours, and the freedom to adapt the recipe to your own taste, they are a treat for every palate. Whether you are an experienced cook or a newcomer to the kitchen, these skewers are sure to succeed. Let South African cuisine inspire you and bring a piece of its culture to your table!
