South African Braai
In this series Chef Vusi Ndlovu unpacks the traditional South African braai. He gives tips and hints on how to braai lamb chops and South African steak, and also gives other options such as a vegetarian braai and a seafood braai. He shows you how to make the essential accompaniments to your braai meat such as pap, chakalaka, tomato salad, braaibroodjies and tomato salsa as well as highlighting the different braai techniques.
1. What Is A Braai
In this series, Chef Vusi Ndlovu introduces the South African braai. He explains that South African steak is a firm favourite as well as lamb chops on the braai. He explains that there are different types of braais including a vegetarian braai and a seafood braai. No braai is the same without versatile components such as chakalaka and a braaibroodjie. He also advises that it's important to include fresh elements such as tomato salad or a tomato salsa to your South African braai.
2. Braai Techniques
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu shows you the various techniques for a South African braai. He explains the need for a low zone and high zone to ensure different heat levels, and suggests using a thermometer to make sure your steak on the braai is cooked to the right temperature. He advises that you go easy on basting sauces when you braai meat.
3. Braai Meat
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu explains that the success of a braai depends on the cut of the meat and suggests that you should talk to your butcher about the best choices of South African steak. Boerewors (a traditional sausage made with grounded meat this is spiced) is a favourite on a South African braai and so is chicken, but he advises you marinade your chicken after cooking.
4. Chakalaka
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu shows you how to cook his version of chakalaka (a tomato and onion relish) using baked beans in tomato sauce. He advises that chakalaka should be prepared in advance and that acidity helps spices increase the flavour profile and suggests that uncooked chakalaka can be served as an accompaniment for your South African braai.
5. Braaibroodjies
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu talks about the braaibroodjie (cheese, onion and bread sandwich) and that it is the perfect appetiser for any braai. There are different versions of the braaibroodjie and different provinces will have their own versions. This is a quick and easy braai item, essential to every South African braai.
6. Tomato Salsa
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu stresses the importance of introducing fresh flavours to your braai menu. He says a chunky tomato salsa with heirloom tomatoes and charred lettuce will balance out the heaviness of the braai meat and will be a great addition to the chakalaka and pap served up at any South African braai.
7. Pap
In this video, Chef Vusi Ndlovu focuses on pap, a South African staple and a must-have at any braai. Made from mielie meal (ground corn), pap is a blank canvas with many variations including "krummel pap" (that has a similar texture to couscous). No braai is complete without pap and a tomato salsa to accompany the delicious braai meat.
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