Recipe: The perfect spicy Durban style Baked Beans salad for any braai

When I think of Heritage Day, I'm reminded of the days with my family on the beach in Park Rynie and Umkomaas. In addition to delicious meat, snacks, and rolls, Baked Beans salads were a must-have for any braai I attended. 

I know that there are many ways to do Baked Beans, but in the Indian community, there is a certain method that has been tried, tested, and enjoyed by many over the years. 

READ - Heritage Day: Braai ideas for vegetarians

Heritage Day is around the corner, so to commemorate the day, I wanted to share the spicy Baked Beans salad recipe that leaves me coming back for more all the time at any braai. 

These particular recipes for Baked Beans can either be enjoyed hot or cold. 

The hot version 

Ingredients 

• A can of your preferred Baked Beans 

• 2 tsp oil 

• Half an onion  

• 3 - 4 green chillies (Depending on how hot you prefer it)

• Tumeric powder for colour

• Tomato (Optional)*

• Masala (Optional)

• Water

• Salt to taste 

Method

1. On medium heat, grab a pot and add 2 teaspoons of oil. 
2. To the oil, add half an onion diced and add the green chillies 
3. Once the mixture is golden brown, add a tiny bit of turmeric powder to give it a nice yellow hue 
4. Add a bit of masala for an extra kick - if you want 
5. Drop in the Baked Beans and add a bit of water so that the beans do not catch
6. Add salt to taste
7. Wait for a few minutes to cook, and enjoy

*Tomato can also be used if you prefer a chutney style Baked Beans salad. 

The cold version 

Want your Baked Beans ready in minutes? The cold version is the perfect solution for any impromptu braai.

Ingredients 

• A can of your preferred Baked Beans 

• Half an onion  

• 3 - 4 green chillies (Depending on how hot you prefer it)

• Salt to taste

Method

1. Dice your onion and chillies fine and set them aside
2. To a bowl, drop in the can of Baked Beans 
3. Add the onions and chillies to the bowl 
4. Add salt to taste 

You can also drop in some peri-peri for some extra spice.

Whether hot or cold, just ensure that on Heritage Day, you celebrate with a generous helping of Baked Beans salad. 

Bon appétit!

Main image courtesy of iStock