Vetkoek and Mince – Simple, generous and hearty Favourite

Vetkoek and Mince is a deeply satisfying South African comfort food. It is hearty, filling, and full of familiar flavours that bring warmth to any table. Although often enjoyed as a casual meal, it carries strong cultural significance and remains popular across generations.

Vetkoek, meaning “fat cake,” is a soft, golden fried dough with a crisp exterior and fluffy centre. Once split open, it is generously filled with savoury mince cooked in onions, spices, and tomato. The contrast between the light dough and rich filling creates a meal that is both comforting and indulgent. Each bite delivers texture, warmth, and flavour.

Traditionally, vetkoek and mince is served as a family meal, market food, or quick lunch. It can be eaten by hand or plated with sides, depending on the occasion. Over time, variations have appeared. Some fillings are mildly spiced, while others include vegetables or chilli for added depth. Despite these changes, the core of the dish remains unchanged.

At The Healthy Springbok, this classic is approached with balance in mind. Lean mince, added vegetables, and careful frying techniques help reduce heaviness while keeping the traditional taste intact. The result is a nourishing version that still feels familiar.

From its comforting aroma to its satisfying texture, Vetkoek and Mince continues to be a trusted favourite. It represents simplicity, generosity, and the joy of honest home cooking.

Vetkoek and Mince

Fluffy vetkoek filled with savoury spiced mince.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: South African

Calories: 560

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Vetkoek

• 4 cups Cake flour
• 2 tsp Instant yeast
• 1½ tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1½ cups Warm water
• Oil for frying

Filling

• 500 g Beef mince
• 1 Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic Crushed
• 1 tbsp Curry powder
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste
• ½ cup Stock Beef
• Salt & pepper
• 1 cup Mixed vegetables

Equipment

• 1 Large mixing bowl
• 1 Measuring cups and spoons
• 1 Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper
• 1 Clean Kitchen cloth
• 1 Deep pot or heavy-based saucepan Frying
• 1 Frying Pan Mince
• 1 Slotted Spoon
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Paper Towels

Method

 

1. Mix dry vetkoek ingredients.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon. Mix until the ingredients come together into a sticky dough.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
4. Cover and rise 45–60 minutes. Or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Brown onion and garlic, add mince and spices.
6. Stir in tomato paste and stock, simmer until thick.
7. Shape dough into balls. Flatten them slightly into discs.
8. Fry until golden. The dough will float. Turn over to golden each side. (2-3min each side)
9. Slice vetkoek and fill with mince.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving):
 Calories: 560 | Protein: 24g | Fat: 28g | Carbs: 52g | Fibre: 3g