Braai

The South African way of grilling meat over wood or charcoal: boerewors sausage, lamb chops, chicken and more, enjoyed with friends. It is as much a social gathering as a meal.

Braai

Barbecue barbecook: No machine-readable author provided. Bree~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims)., Public domain (Wikimedia Commons)

Where it comes from

A braai is a weekend tradition in South Africa and neighboring countries, where outdoor fires and long afternoons are part of life. Typical sides include pap with tomato-onion sauce and a salad.

Explore the cuisine of South Africa.

Recipe

Make Braai at home

Serves 6-8Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 kg lamb chops
  • 500 g boerewors sausage
  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds, crushed
  • 1 tbsp coarse salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 corn on the cob
  • bread rolls for serving

How it's made

  1. Light wood or charcoal and let it burn down to glowing coals, about 40 minutes.
  2. Mix oil, garlic, coriander, salt and pepper and rub over the lamb and chicken.
  3. Cook the chicken first on medium heat, turning, for 25-30 minutes.
  4. Add the lamb chops and sausage; grill 10-15 minutes, turning for even color.
  5. Grill corn alongside until charred in spots.
  6. Rest the meat for 5 minutes and serve with pap or bread rolls.

Variations

  • Sosaties: marinated, skewered lamb with dried apricots.
  • Braaibroodjies: grilled cheese and tomato sandwiches.

Cook’s tip: Cook over coals, not flames; a steady glow gives even cooking and a better flavor.

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About this page

Description and method written by Intercontinental Chef. Home-style method; quantities are a starting point, so adjust to taste.

Photo credit
  • Barbecue barbecook: No machine-readable author provided. Bree~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims)., Public domain (Wikimedia Commons)