Authentic South African Braaivleis Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg beef steak
4 chicken drumsticks
4 boerewors sausages
Marinade:

2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of olive oil
1/2 cup of soy sauce
1/2 cup of red wine vinegar
1/3 cup of lemon juice
1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon of dried basil
1 tablespoon of dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper sauce (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Begin by preparing the marinade. Combine the minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried parsley flakes, white pepper, and hot pepper sauce in a bowl. Mix well.
Season the beef steak, chicken drumsticks, and boerewors with salt and pepper. Place them in a large dish.
Pour the marinade over the meat. Ensure that all the meat pieces are well-coated with the marinade. Cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight.
Preheat the braai (BBQ grill) on high heat. Once hot, reduce the heat to medium.
Remove the meat from the marinade and shake off excess. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
Place the meat on the preheated braai. Cook the steak and chicken for about 10-15 minutes on each side, turning once. Grill the boerewors for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
While grilling, baste the meat occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Once the meat is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Braai (BBQ) grill - A grill used for cooking the meat over an open flame.
Large dish - A dish big enough to hold the meat and marinade.
Basting brush - A brush used to apply the marinade to the meat while grilling.
Tongs - Long-handled utensils used to flip and handle the meat on the grill.
Knife - A sharp knife for trimming any excess fat from the meat.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface for preparing and cutting the meat.
Bowl - A bowl for mixing the marinade ingredients.
Measuring cups - Cups for accurately measuring the marinade ingredients.
Measuring spoons - Spoons for accurately measuring the marinade ingredients.
Aluminum foil - Foil used for covering the dish while marinating the meat.

Recipe variations

Use different cuts of meat such as lamb chops, pork ribs, or venison instead of beef steak.
Experiment with different marinades such as a spicy peri-peri marinade, a teriyaki glaze, or a honey mustard marinade.
Add different herbs and spices to the marinade like rosemary, thyme, paprika, or cumin for unique flavors.
Include vegetables in the braai by grilling skewers of bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes alongside the meat.
For a meat-free option, substitute the meat with tofu, seitan, or halloumi cheese. Marinate and grill them according to your preference.
Try different types of sausages like chorizo, Italian sausage, or spicy boerewors for a twist on the traditional boerewors.
Serve the braaivleis in a bun or wrap with your favorite toppings and sauces to create a delicious braai burger or wrap.
For a smoky flavor, add wood chips or chunks to the braai fire, such as hickory, mesquite, or fruitwood.
Experiment with different side dishes like potato salad, coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or baked beans to complement the braaivleis.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the authentic South African experience with this Braaivleis recipe. Braaivleis, literally meaning "grilled meat," is a cherished tradition greatly enjoyed by South Africans. This recipe includes a delightful variety of meats - succulent beef steak, flavorful chicken drumsticks, and traditional boerewors sausages. All these are marinated in a robust, tangy marinade that enhances their natural flavors before they are grilled to perfection. From the tantalizing aroma wafting from the grill to the juiciness of the meat, this recipe is a true feast for the senses. Whether you're new to South African cuisine or a seasoned expert, this Braaivleis is bound to become a favorite. Prepare to be transported straight to the Rainbow Nation with every bite!

Common questions

How long should I marinate the meat?
For this recipe, it is recommended to marinate the meat for a minimum of 2 hours. However, for the best flavor and tenderness, marinating the meat overnight is ideal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use different types of meat according to your preference. This recipe works well with beef steak, chicken drumsticks, and boerewors sausages. However, you can try using lamb chops, pork ribs, or even vegetarian alternatives like tofu or vegetable skewers.
Do I need to baste the meat while grilling?
Yes, it is recommended to baste the meat occasionally with the reserved marinade while grilling. This helps to keep the meat juicy and enhances the flavor.
How do I know when the meat is cooked?
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat and your desired level of doneness. It is best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For beef steak, a medium-rare doneness is around 135°F (57°C), medium is around 145°F (63°C), and well-done is around 160°F (71°C). For chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I grill the meat on a regular stovetop instead of a braai (BBQ grill)?
While grilling on a braai is traditional for this recipe, you can also use a regular stovetop grill pan or an electric grill. Just ensure that the grill is preheated and follow the cooking instructions accordingly.

Serving dishes and utensils

Braai - A South African term for BBQ grill.
Tongs - Essential for flipping and handling the meat on the grill.
Basting brush - Useful for applying the marinade to the meat while grilling.
Plates - To serve the cooked meat.
Cutting board - Required for slicing the steak before serving.
Sharp knife - For cutting and slicing the cooked meat.
Serving utensils - Such as forks and spoons for serving the meat.
Side dishes - Optional, but you may want to serve the braaivleis with salads, bread, or other accompaniments.

Origin stories

Braai, or barbecue, is not just a method of cooking in South Africa, but a cherished social occasion and part of the country's cultural identity. The term 'Braaivleis' directly translates to 'burnt meat' in Afrikaans, reflecting the simplicity and rustic nature of this cooking technique. The practice of gathering around a fire to cook meat dates back to the country's first inhabitants, and over centuries, it has evolved into the beloved braai tradition. One noteworthy aspect is National Braai Day, celebrated on September 24th annually. The day coincides with South Africa's Heritage Day, underlining the deep-rooted significance of braai in South African culture. So, when indulging in braaivleis, remember, you're partaking in a tradition that spans centuries and carries the sentiment of togetherness of an entire nation.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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