By Zeldra Enslin 

If we are happy, we braai. If we watch rugby, we braai. A family birthday? We braai. Have friends over? Yes, we braai! It can be hot or cold, autumn or spring – South Africans love a lekker braai! For many families, a weekend is not a weekend without indulging in a good braai. 

Entertainment and braai areas are one of the main features a potential homeowner looks for. With the many indoor and outdoor options available, there is no need to limit this favoured pastime to warm, sunny days. 

Now that it’s spring the frequency of braaiing will definitely increase. The only difference lies in the choice of side dishes one can incorporate. No more hot potato bakes or braaipap and sauce.  Bring out the colourful, crisp salads and other light dishes that will bring the freshness of spring to your dining table. 

There can never be a wrong menu when it comes to a good braai. It boils down to personal taste and preference. Various options are available for even the most particular taste buds. 

To kick off the season, the following easy and effortless menu may just pave the way for many more enjoyable and relaxing family braais. 

The Menu 

Meat: 

Beef rashers, boerewors on a stick, pork armadillo (pork fillet wrapped in bacon) or any of your favourites. 

Salads: 

Mixed spring salad – if packed out separately, your guests and family can decide what they would like to add. Use as many elements as you like. 

Strawberry Salad – lettuce, tomato, gherkins, green pepper, feta cheese and strawberries (serve chilled with salad dressing of your choice). 

Paw Paw and Avo Salad – slice the paw paw and avo into chunky bits, top with sweet chilli sauce and garnish with nuts of your choice (serve chilled). 

Side Dishes: 

Sweetcorn Delight 

⦁    Preheat oven to 180 degrees.   

⦁    Mix 60 ml cake flour, 15ml baking powder, 60ml brown sugar together 

⦁    Add 2 x 410g sweetcorn (cream style), 4 eggs, 60ml margarine 

⦁    Pour the mixture into an ovenproof dish and bake for 30min. Spread with chutney when baked. 

The Carbs: 

Shop–bought cheese and onion loaf – the adventurous bakers out there can easily bake this at home though. 

What are you waiting for? Let’s braai! 

Find more braai-related articles here.