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The World's First Online Tell-All Competition BBQ Cooking School

Jun
29
2024
by
Sara Hansen
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2
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Essential Tips for Hosting a South African Braai Like a Pro

So you've familiarized yourself with the wonders of the South African braai – a sizzling social gathering built around fire-cooked food and good company. Now, you're eager to host your own and share the magic with friends and family. But where do you start?

Don't worry, this guide will break down all the essential tips for hosting a South African braai, equipping you to throw one that'll have your guests raving (and maybe even attempting a few beginner Afrikaans phrases!).

 

Planning Makes Perfect

A successful braai hinges on thoughtful planning. Here are some key areas to consider:

  • Guest list and occasion: Is it a casual gathering with close friends, a birthday celebration, or a larger get-together? Knowing your guest count helps determine how much meat and sides you’ll need and the seating arrangements.
  • Date and time: South Africans love year-round braais, but consider the weather. Opt for a sunny afternoon or a balmy evening. Weekends are popular choices, but weekdays work too!
  • Location: Will it be in your backyard, a park, or a rented venue? Factor in space for the braai itself, seating, and mingling.

 

Setting the Braai Stage

It’s important to make sure that you have everything you need for a successful braai. This includes:

  • The braai grill: This is the heart of the operation. If you don't own one, consider borrowing or renting a wood or charcoal-fired braai. Gas braais are convenient but lack the traditional smoky flavor and are usually frowned upon for traditional South African braais.
  • Fueling the fire: Hardwood or charcoal are your go-to options. Wood imparts a unique smoky taste but requires practice to manage the flames; charcoal lights quickly and provides consistent heat. Experiment beforehand to find your preference.
  • Tools of the trade: Long tongs for turning meat, a braai fork for heavier cuts, and a grid cleaning brush are essential. Fireproof gloves for the braai master are a bonus.

 

Make Sure You Have the Braai Staples and Delicious Sides

 

braai sides | hosting a South African braai | tips for hosting a braai

 

The braai is all about delicious, flame-kissed food. Here's a breakdown of the essentials to get you started:

  • The meat: Boerewors (coiled sausage), steaks, kebabs, and sosaties (skewered meat) are braai staples. Consider offering a variety of options. Also make sure to include vegetarian or pescatarian alternatives like grilled vegetables, halloumi cheese, or fish.
  • Marinades and seasonings: South Africans love bold flavors. Marinate meats overnight in a mixture of herbs, spices, lemon juice, or yogurt. Popular choices include peri-peri sauce (spicy), braai wors spice, or a simple salt and pepper rub.
  • Sides and salads: Braai potatoes (roasted potatoes), mieliepap (cornmeal porridge, sometimes also referred to simply as “pap”), coleslaw, and fresh salads provide a delicious counterpoint to the grilled fare. Don't forget the braaibroodjies (grilled cheese sandwiches) – a South African favorite!
  • Drinks: South Africans love a good braai beer, but a selection of wines, soft drinks, and water is also essential.

 

Setting the Braai Vibe

A braai is more than just food; it's about creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere that promotes human connection. To do that, there are a couple key considerations:

  • Music: Set the mood with a playlist featuring South African music (think mbaqanga, kwaito, or contemporary South African artists).
  • Seating: Arrange comfortable seating around the braai, allowing guests to socialize while enjoying the aroma and warmth of the fire. Outdoor games like frisbee or a volleyball net add to the fun, especially for kids.
  • Décor: Keep it simple yet festive. String lights, colorful tablecloths, and some potted plants add ambiance. Don't forget the citronella candles to keep mosquitoes at bay.

 

Keep Braai Etiquette in Mind

A few pointers ensure a smooth braai experience:

  • The braai master: Traditionally, the host takes on the role of the braai master, responsible for tending the fire and cooking the meat. Guests are welcome to offer assistance or advice, but avoid backseat braaing!
  • Second helpings: Guests are encouraged to feel free to ask for seconds – it's considered a compliment to the host! But be mindful of others and avoid overindulging.

 

tips for hosting a braai | hosting a South African braai

 

The Final Touches

  • Preparation is key: Make sure to have everything you need ready ahead of time. Marinate meats in advance, chop vegetables, and have all the sides and drinks prepped beforehand. This frees you to relax and enjoy the company during the braai.
  • Relax and have fun!: A braai is about connecting with loved ones. Don't get stressed about every detail – embrace the laid-back atmosphere and soak in the good vibes.

 

Bonus Tip: End the Braai on a Sweet Note!

South Africans have a sweet tooth, and no braai is complete without a delicious dessert. Here are a few ideas:

  • Melktert (milk tart): This creamy custard tart with a flaky crust is a South African classic and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
  • Braaibroodjies with Nutella and banana: Take white bread slices, spread it with Nutella, top it with sliced bananas, put another slice of white bread on top, and grill it until the filling is warm and melty. Pure indulgence!
  • Seasonal fruits: A platter of fresh, seasonal fruits is a light and refreshing way to end the meal. Don't forget the marshmallows! Roast them over the fire for a fun and nostalgic treat.

 

You Can Make Your South African Braai Unforgettable!

With the tips we’ve covered above and a little South African spirit, you're well on your way to hosting a South African braai that your guests won't soon forget. Gather your friends and family, fire up the braai, and prepare to create lasting memories filled with laughter, delicious food, and the warmth of good company.

Lag lekker! (Enjoy!)

Do you plan on doing a braai soon? Or do you have some other braai tips to share? If so, leave a comment below. We want to hear all about it!

 

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Sara Hansen

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2 comments on “Essential Tips for Hosting a South African Braai Like a Pro”

    1. Hi Robyn, thanks for checking out our site! So we don't have a class specifically for doing a braai but the techniques and tips you'll learn in our classes (the classes under the All Access and the Championship Backyard BBQ classes) can be carried over to cooking on a braai grill.

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