Chakalaka, Zulu for “All Together” is a well-known and delicious plant-based South African heritage dish that is now available in convenient packages thanks to a New Jersey company, Chakalaka Brands.

To prepare and enjoy this traditional mouth-watering mix of beans, vegetables and spices is more than a simple and most enjoyable ritual: it is an experience of life and happiness, flavors and cultures, a celebration of love and family, a gumbo of the best values we all share.

Preparing Chakalaka is easy: simply combine a package with 2 1/3 cups of water and cook it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and cook for 20 minutes until the beans are tender. The magical collaboration of spices, and healthy vegetables creates vibrant, hearty and savory dish that fits any occasion. Serve it as a main meal, side dish or as a relish over rice or eggs—the options are limitless. In South Africa it is the ideal accompaniment for barbecues.

Chakalaka has only 150 calories per serving and contains nothing artificial. It is full of protein and nutrients. Available in various spiciness or no spice at all, we prefer the Original with Mathata chili with a level of heat that is most potent. This is the taste and the pure spirit of togetherness.

A package of three retails for $17.97 at http://www.chakalakabrands.com.