BRAAI TIPS FROM A MASTER

Can you host a budget braai? Lutho Pasiya chats to ‘Ultimate Braai Master’ judge Chef Benny Masekwameng

HERITAGE Day is about celebrating our diversity and everything that makes us proudly South African. In fact, a few years ago, Heritage Day was also coined National Braai Day.

And, what could be more South African than a braai? Whether you call it braai or shisanyama or ukosa, it is in our blood. It is around the braai that we celebrate our unity as a country, we celebrate our family, our friends and of course great food. But, during these extraordinary times, our budgets might be a little tight, Chef Benny Masekwameng, who is a judge on The Ultimate Braai Master and a BIC brand ambassador, has given us the right tips on how to braai on a budget this Heritage Day; from the presentation set up of your meals to the sweet treat that we all look forward to at the end of every luxurious meal.

BRAAI HACKS TO CELEBRATE HERITAGE DAY

PRESENTATION IS KEY

For a breathtaking display, create a platter with the available spread you have.

Layout the products on a wooden board or an oven tray. To enhance aesthetics, simply cut and grill some veggies and add them to your layout. Voila! You’ll be ready to set and present your meal.

PREMIUM TASTING MEAT

Chef Benny advises that the simplest way to get premium-tasting meat without paying the price is to buy beef chuck. For a quick braai, simply ask your butcher to cut it into thin slices and all that's left is for you to quickly braai it. But if you have time, braai it whole, low and slow.

THE JUICIEST MEAT ON A BUDGET

Getting the juiciest braai meat ever is simple. Chef Benny shares a fouringredient hack for the best braai meat. Add and mix tomato sauce, soy sauce, fruit chutney, and olive oil. Once mixed, add and massage onto your meat.

DON’T FORGET THE SIDE DISH

A South African favourite for a braai is the potato salad as a side dish. Here’s a trick to make it even tastier: slice your par-cooked potatoes and toss them in a hot pan with olive oil. Add some salt and pepper, then lower your heat and add in your sliced onions. Allow your onions to caramelise slowly to infuse with the potatoes, and that will give it a delicious flavour.

WRAP IT UP

We all know that great meals end with a delicious dessert. Chef Benny believes this trick will help you add that last punch to your guests' braai experience. All you need is some fruit and your fire. Grill your fruits on the stand and once they are ready, serve them with either ice cream, cream, or custard.

SOUTH AFRICAN FONDUE

Another method to cater to those with a sweet tooth is to make a so-called South African Fondue. All you need is a small pot that can be placed at a low heat section of the fire. Toss in a few chocolate pieces and melt them in some cream in the pot. Grab your fruit skewers or some marshmallows on a stick, gather your guests around the fire, dip, and enjoy!