Mutton gula by any other name is still mutton gula
This popular South African fruit is known by a name that has little to do with its actual nature.
We truly celebrate what sets us apart from the rest of the world. It's those very differences that make us unique and add to our diversity.
One of the most distinctive aspects of South African life is the way we speak. Language and slang vary from community to community, each adding flavour to everyday conversation.
Take KwaZulu-Natal, for example. While the province has its own broad slang culture, smaller communities within KZN have developed their own unique terms and expressions – many of which come with colourful stories about how they originated.
A TikTok video recently highlighted a popular fruit in KZN and the varied ways people refer to it.
A recent TikTok video shed light on a beloved fruit in KZN and the many different names locals use to describe it.
The fruit in question? A Natal plum, also known as mutton gula or amatungulu.
Kajal Maharaj, who often shares food-related content about food, used this fruit to illustrate how many South African Indians have created a rich, expressive language of their own.
Read more: Phoenix’s mouthwatering food scene
Watch her ask KZN what they call the Natal plum – courtesy of TikTok.
@ka_jillofalltrades Indian South Africans have their own language, I swear 😅
♬ original sound - Kajal Maharaj 🧿
While Maharaj touched on the different names that the Natal plum is called, many people came to the comments to share their input.
"I just realised that my granny referred to the avocado as half a quarter pear."
"I think we called it so because amatungulu... It was mispronounced. amatun... mutton."
"Mutton gulla. It doesn't even look like mutton; I wonder why. I am from KZN. Yum, love it."
"Ayibo, I have lived with Indians all my life. Ras goola?? ayyy ayy ngeke. Gool Goola, chilli bite, vede, yebo we know it. Ras goola, Indian friends never made that."
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