Heritage Day on 24 September is the perfect excuse to gather around the fire, invite your favourite people over and put a little more thought into your braai. From choosing the right cuts to getting your sides and sauces just right, a great braai is about more than what goes on the grid.
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Try these simple ways to make your braai even better:
Start with the fire
A great braai starts long before the first chop hits the grid. Give your coals plenty of time to heat up until they’re glowing and covered with a fine layer of ash. You want an even, steady heat rather than flames licking at your food. If you’re cooking different meats, create hotter and cooler areas so you can move food around as needed.
Don’t overcomplicate the meat
You don’t need an elaborate marinade to make braai meat delicious. Good-quality meat, salt, pepper and a little time over the coals can go a long way. For something extra, try a simple marinade or basting sauce with garlic, herbs, lemon, chilli or your favourite South African flavours.
And remember: take meat out of the fridge before cooking so it can come closer to room temperature, and resist the urge to constantly turn it. Let it develop a good sear before moving it.
Give your sides some attention
While the meat may be the star, the sides can make the meal. Move beyond the usual green salad and try grilled mielies, a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, roasted vegetables or a vibrant slaw. A bowl of homemade chakalaka is another easy way to bring bold flavour to the table.
For Heritage Day, why not give a nod to South Africa’s diverse food culture by serving a few dishes inspired by different culinary traditions?
Add something to the fire
A braai doesn’t have to be all about meat. Throw mielies, peppers, mushrooms, onions or even slices of pineapple onto the grid for a smoky twist. Halloumi is another easy option, while garlic bread wrapped in foil can be warmed alongside the coals.
Don’t forget the sauces
A good sauce can transform a simple plate. Put out a selection of chutney, chakalaka, peri-peri sauce, garlic sauce or a fresh herb dressing so everyone can customise their meal. It’s an easy way to cater to different tastes without making extra dishes.
Make it a gathering
The best braais are rarely about perfect food. They’re about lingering outside, sharing stories, arguing over whose turn it is to check the coals and eating long after the sun has gone down.
This Heritage Day, keep the pressure low and the fire going. Put on some music, ask everyone to bring a favourite side and make space around the table. Because a better braai isn’t necessarily about doing more, it’s about creating an occasion people want to remember.
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Braai Day table settings: fun, festive ideas for Heritage Day
Featured Image: Magnific
