National Braai Day - How to host the perfect braai this Heritage Day

A braai, which is derived from the Dutch word for "roast," is a common practice for every South African family. A braai is an important part of our culture and traditions, and it is a custom that unites the country.

A traditional braai is similar to a barbecue. The food during a braai, on the other hand, is cooked using wood as fuel or charcoal and briquettes. A gas griller is often used for a barbecue. The food cooked on a braai differs from what you would cook on a griller in America or England.

Make this National Braai Day (Heritage Day) a joyous occasion for you and your closest family and friends by hosting the perfect braai. These are some of the amazing ideas you can use to throw the ideal braai, from preparing classic side dishes to creating an awesome playlist.

Choose a braai master

There should be only one braai master since too many cooks can ruin a braai too. The braai master must also be a delegator, in charge of the cooking while ensuring that others handle the drinks, garlic bread, or salads.

Serve snacks well in advance of the start of the braai

Because the fire might take a while to ignite, a skilled host will provide snacks and refreshments as visitors arrive. You don't want your guests, especially youngsters, to be hungry and uncomfortable. Chips and a cool drink will do the trick. You may also make little pigs in a blanket or crispy fried chicken drumsticks as an appetiser.

Be creative with the salads

If you prefer traditional salads at a braai, the usual baked beans, mash, or potato will suffice. If you want to take it a step further, there are plenty of great salad recipes, like a Bruschetta Pasta Salad, that will impress your guests.

What will be on the menu?

Decide if you want to braai meat or vegetarian alternatives. Popular meats include chops, boerewors, steak, and chicken. There are also a plethora of meat-free options to select from.

Preparing your braai meat is essential if you want a delicious result. Buy the finest cuts you can find and marinate them overnight. This will let the meat absorb the juicy flavour. Allow your meat to get to room temperature before putting it on the braai for the best results.

If your guests are also bringing along something, make sure you know who's bringing what or you could wind up with one tray of chops and eight trays of boerewors.

Get the vibe right

Make sure there is enough seating around the braai for guests. Make sure there are some iced refreshments around - you may use a bar fridge outdoors or an ice bucket. Don't forget to get the party started with some great tunes. Make a playlist ahead of schedule.

Clean up as you go

The most difficult aspect of having a braai is cleaning up. Throwaway paper plates and cups are an excellent alternative that will spare you the trouble of cleaning the dishes. If you do use glasses, make sure to clean the dishes as soon as everyone leaves so you don't have to worry about it the next morning.

Most households in the country have a braai in their backyard or a Lapa - a traditional South African structure used for shade and cooling in hot weather. Contact Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof now if you are searching for a beautiful house in the Upper Highway Area to suit the demands of your inner braai master. Our professionals will help you sell your current home and discover the property of your dreams.