Braai Recipe – Botswana's Grilled Delight

Name: Braai
Prep time: 6 h 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 7 h 5 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Cuisine: Botswana
Ingredients: any preferred cut; any sausages; barbecue sauce; beef steaks sirloin rib eye; black pepper; boerewors botswana sausage; brown sugar; chakalaka spicy vegetable relish; chicken thighs; cloves garlic; coriander; cumin; dried rosemary; drumsticks; for marinade; for serving; for the meat; olive oil; pap traditional maize porridge; paprika; salt; soy sauce; traditional botswana salad tomato cucumber onion

Braai is a beloved traditional dish in Botswana, showcasing a variety of grilled meats, including beef, chicken, and local sausages. It holds a significant place in the culture, often enjoyed during social gatherings, celebrations, and weekend cookouts. This communal meal is a symbol of friendship and hospitality, bringing people together around the fire.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~500 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Meat:
1 kg beef steaks (sirloin, rib-eye, or any preferred cut)
1 kg boerewors (Botswana sausage) or any sausages
1 kg chicken thighs or drumsticks
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (optional)
For Marinade (optional):
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
For Serving:
Pap (traditional maize porridge)
Chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish)
Traditional Botswana salad (tomato, cucumber, onion)

Instructions

Marinate the Meat (Optional)

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and dried rosemary.

Rub the marinade onto the beef steaks, chicken, and sausages. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.

Prepare the Braai

Prepare your grill or braai by lighting the charcoal or wood. Allow it to heat up and develop a good layer of hot coals or embers.

Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Meat

Place the beef steaks, sausages, and chicken onto the grill.

Cook the beef steaks for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness.

Grill the sausages until they are browned and cooked through, turning occasionally.

Cook the chicken thighs or drumsticks for about 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Serve

Serve the grilled meat with traditional accompaniments like pap, chakalaka, and a fresh salad. Drizzle with barbecue sauce if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Braai?

Braai is a traditional cooking method in Botswana involving grilling various types of meat over an open flame. It's not just a meal but a social event.

Where does Braai come from?

Braai originates from South Africa but has become a staple in Botswana, reflecting the country’s rich culinary heritage.

What are the main ingredients in Braai?

Key ingredients include beef steaks, boerewors, chicken thighs, salt, black pepper, and optional marinade.

How long does Braai take to make?

Braai can take anywhere from 90 to 760 minutes total time, depending on preparation and cooking methods.

What do you serve with Braai?

Braai is often served with sides like pap (maize porridge), chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish), or a fresh salad.

Braai