Hello Steem Fam! Today's food post explores the South African culture of the "braai". Here in SA we love to braai (barbeque), and over the weekend I attended a braai, so I took photos to document the process to share with you!
The word braai originates from the Dutch word braden, which means to roast. Pronounced like cry with a B, it's a truly South African term.
So, what makes a braai? A fire, of course. Good company, a few (okay, usually, a lot of) drinks, and of course, the MEAT.
Traditionally, boerewors (literal translation - farmer's sausage), and a chop of some sorts, either pork, beef, or more commonly lamb is braaied. Some people also like to braai chicken pieces and steaks. There is no end to what you can braai! Vegetarians also have some creative dishes, like stuffed butternuts, cheesy mushrooms and vegetarian sausages too.
A braai can be a casual get together on a Friday evening, or a large celebration of some sorts. A house warming braai, a graduation braai, a birthday braai, and my favourite, a Christmas braai.
The braai I attended this weekend was a large family celebration, with THREE types of meat (LOL!). There was half a lamb, a pig on a spit, and a Turkish style beef Döner.
Usually, in casual settings, one of the male guests will be appointed braaimaster, and he will be in charge of cooking all the meat to perfection. The female guests usually each bring a salad or side dish, and there is no shortage of food!
Some very traditional sides are potato salad, potato bake, coleslaw, green salads, and garlic breads, with loads of butter and garlic.
A braai is the perfect get together, as unlike with a traditional dinner, where the host is in the kitchen, this style of gathering is perfect for everyone to crowd around the fire and chat a bit while the meat cooks. Many philosophical discussions have been had fireside.
A braai can literally take up all afternoon, and evening too. It is a truly South African tradition, that I will always love. I just couldn't imagine my life without a lekker braai!
Tell me about your traditional meals and routines? I'd love to hear all about them in the comments
thanks!
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