Why should I ‘rest’ the meat after cooking?
Resting for 5 to 10 minutes allows the muscle fibres to relax and the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much more tender and succulent bite.
Tag FAQ
What is ‘Sosaties’?
Sosaties are traditional skewered meats, typically lamb or chicken cubes alternating with dried apricots and onions, marinated in a sweet, curried Cape Malay sauce.
How do I prevent chicken from burning on the outside while staying raw inside?
Chicken requires medium-to-low heat and patience. Pre-cooking slightly or braaing it higher above the coals prevents the skin from burning before the inside is safely done.
How do I get the skin on my braai chicken completely crispy?
Ensure the skin is completely dry before putting it on the fire. Start skin-side up over medium coals, and only turn it to crisp up towards the end.
What is the essential ‘Braai Kit’?
A sturdy grid (hinged is best), long-handled stainless steel tongs, a high-quality firelighter, a dedicated braai brush for cleaning, and a fire poker.
How do I clean a braai grid?
The best method is to scrub the grid while it is still hot after cooking, or use a wire brush. Some prefer to soak it in hot, soapy water overnight.
Can I use an onion to clean the grid?
Yes. Rubbing a halved onion over the hot, dirty bars of the grid helps to lift grease and adds a subtle flavour to the next round of cooking.
Why is a hinged grid superior for a traditional braai?
A hinged grid sandwiches your food (like chops or braaibroodjies) securely inside, allowing you to flip everything simultaneously without risking food slipping into the fire.
What is a ‘braaibroodjie’?
It is a grilled cheese sandwich made on the braai. It typically contains cheese, tomato, onion, and a touch of chutney, grilled between two pieces of bread until crispy and golden.
What kind of cheese is best for a traditional braaibroodjie?
A good melting Cheddar or Gouda is prioritised, as it binds the tomato and onion together beautifully while creating a rich, gooey interior texture.