What is a braai in South Africa?
You've likely heard the word "braai" mentioned with enthusiasm if you've ever visited South Africa. But a braai is more than a BBQ; it's a social event, a way of life, and an institution ingrained. In South Africa, a braai is more than cooking on the fire; it's a celebration of life with wonderful friends and wonderful food and a gathering of people and sharing of memories.
The Heart and Soul of the Braai
Though technically a South African BBQ, a braai (pronounced "bry") is not your run-of-the-mill cookout. The big difference? A braai is always grilled over an open flame, usually charcoal or wood, which gives the food its richly smokey flavor. While gas grills are handy, they're not appropriate for braais!
The Braai Master: The Fire King
The braai master is the informal head of every braai. Since the person responsible for the fire must make certain of the optimal sear on those tasty steaks, lamb chops, and mythical boerewors (the ubiquitous South African sausage), the position is not to be trifled with. The remaining members of the group assemble, socializing, imbibing, and taking in the smokey smell of the imminent feast as the braai master tends the fires.
What’s on the Grill?
A good braai spread is very delicious, and South Africans take their braai meat very seriously. What might be sizzling over the flames is the following:
- A favourite at a braai, boerewors are spiral-shaped sausages of meat and spices.
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Lamb chops that have been seasoned to perfection and flame-grilled.
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Steaks: Thick pieces of meat cooked to your liking.
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Before grilling, chicken is usually marinated in a savory sauce.
- Sosaties are meat on skewers, marinated with a sweet and salty bite.
But a braai isn’t just about the meat. Side dishes play a big role too, with classics like:
Braaibroodjies are grilled cheese, tomato, onion, and chutney sandwiches;
Potato salad is a rich, creamy addition to balance the smoky flavors.
pap & chakalaka, a maize porridge served with a spicy relish vegetable dish, are just a few of the traditional side dishes that form part of a braai.
More than just a meal
The atmosphere at a braai is as magical as the grub. A braai is about being with others, be it a Saturday gathering, birthday party, or even National Braai Day (yes, September 24th is an official day in South Africa!). Around the fire, people sit to laugh and tell stories and soak in the pleasure of each other's presence.
A Shared Tradition
South Africa has more than a hundred different cultures, but if one thing brings all people together, it's the love of braais. The aroma of sizzling meat and the warmth of a smoldering fire invite everyone in to sit down and join the party, no matter if they're at the beach, in the bush, or in the city.
So, instead of eating a restaurant meal when you are in South Africa again, go visit a local braai, enjoy a drink, and join this cherished tradition. Because at a braai in South Africa, the ambiance surrounding the grill is just as important as the food on it.
Have you ever been to a braai in South Africa? Share with us below!