Dombolo
Soft, fluffy South African steamed yeast bread, perfectly crafted to soak up rich stews, chakalaka, and melted butter.
Soft, pillowy, and steaming hot—Dombolo is the ultimate South African comfort food! More than just bread, this traditional steamed bread is a centrepiece of home and heritage, passed down through generations to bring warmth and togetherness to the table. As it steams, it creates a delicate, smooth skin and an impossibly light, cloud-like centre that is tailor-made for soaking up every last drop of rich gravy, fiery chakalaka, or a thick layer of melting salted butter. Simple to make with no special equipment needed, this recipe delivers pure, nostalgic magic in every bite.
Before you start
Get your mise en place ready so nothing catches you out mid-cook.
Method
- 1
Mix Liquids & Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a small jug or bowl, whisk together 1 cup lukewarm water and 2 tbsp oil.
- 2
In a separate large mixing bowl, sift together 320 g plain flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp instant dry yeast.
- 3
Knead & Proof
Gradually pour the lukewarm water and oil mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon until a soft dough comes together.
The rest of this recipe
There’s 3 more ingredients and 5 more steps to go.
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Ivana Sanshia’s note
If you don't have a formal steamer, grease mug cups or small metal bowls, fill them halfway with dough, and stand them directly in a shallow pot of simmering water! Cover the pot tightly with foil under the lid to lock in all that beautiful steam.
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