Ah, the great South African braai! It's a national pastime, a culinary art, and quite possibly a religion. When you go to a braai, it's not like going to a barbecue: it is about bonding, banter, and basking in the smoky aroma of a crackling fire. But let's be honest not all meats are created equal in the eyes of a braai master. Here's a countdown of the top 10 meat choices for a South African braai, from the least favored (but still delicious) to the absolute must-have.
10. Chicken Wings | 20-25 minutes
Last but not the least is a humble chicken wing. They may taste great, be able to spice up nicely, and usually come in as more of an appetizer than the meal itself. Excellent for those who love to gnaw on something while waiting for the show's real stars.
9. Beef Ribs | 60-90 minutes
Next up is beef ribs. They're the big, burly cousin of pork ribs. Tasty as they can be, they may come out harsh if not cooked perfectly. That's why they're quite at number nine.
8. Pork Chops | 15-20 minutes
Coming in at number eight is pork chops. They're versatile, cooking quickly, yet can be a bit hit or miss. When done right, they're juicy and delicious, but they can just as quickly become dry if left on the grill for too long.
7. Chicken Drumsticks | 25-30 minutes
The drumstick is the more robust brother to the wing. It's good for soaking in marinades, and cooking it to perfection on the grill. It's a crowd pleaser yet never quite makes the grade for the top tier braai meats.
6. Lamb Chops | 10-15 minutes
Lamb chops are somehow the favorite with good reasons: tender, flavorful, and with a taste like no other. Perhaps this slight extra expense compared to other meats holds them back from breaking into the top five. They are sure value for any braai.
5. Boerewors | 15-20 minutes
Now we're getting to the heavy hitters. Boerewors is a classic South African sausage that's a must-have at any braai. This is one juicy, flavorful sausage that can be enjoyed either in a roll or on its own. Without some boerewors sizzling on that grill, no true braai is complete.
4. Pork Ribs | 60-90 minutes
Pork ribs come in at number four and make a sticky, saucy delight everyone loves. They're a little bit of a mess to eat, but that's part of the fun—just bring plenty of napkins along.
3. Beef Steak | 10-12 minutes (medium-rare)
A good beef steak is hard to beat. Whether you like it rare, medium, or well-done, steak fits the bill for versatility and can take on almost any flavor that suits your mood. It's a classic choice for a reason and secures its spot in the top three.
2. Lamb Ribs | 60-90 minutes
Lamb's ribs are a real indulgence. If cooked to perfection, they can be so fatty and flavorful that they steal the show. Maybe this is why they are highly prized—much less common than pork ribs.
1. T-Bone Steak | 10-12 minutes (medium-rare)
And the formidable number-one spot goes to: T-bone steak. The king of meats to braai—a tender filet and a tasty sirloin, all in one muscle. It's large and in charge, the undefeated champ of any braai.
Honorable Mentions: Top Choices for Our African Neighbors
While South Africa has its favorites, our neighbors have their tantalizing picks for a braai.
Namibia Namibians love their game meat, kudu, springbok, or oryx. All of those make a mean steak and give that rich, wild taste when thrown on a grill.
Botswana
Seswaa (Pounded Beef) | 2-3 hours
They say that beef is king in Botswana. Seswaa, the traditional pounded beef, is at most of the tables during any braai, thereby ensuring that this country surely cannot help but love rich, sumptuous meat.
Zimbabwe
Goat Meat | 1-2 hours
Zimbabweans love an excellent goat braai. Since the meat comes from goats, it's pretty tender and slightly gamey, which makes it a little bit special when it's grilled.
Mozambique
Prawns: 4-6 minutes/Fish: 8-10 minutes/Calamari: 3-4 minutes
Mozambique takes it further by coastally using seafood, more often than not, at their braais. Besides land meats, one will be offered grilled prawns, fish, and calamari—something different from others.
So there you have it, our favorite ten meats for a South African braai. I hope you enjoyed the taste alternatives, where even with the classics, there's always a lack of great choices of what to throw on the grill. Happy braaing!
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