6 Must-Try Braai Sides and Salads: The Perfect Addition to Your Next Cookout

A widespread South African practice called “braai” involves grilling or cooking over coals or an open flame. While the meat at a braai is frequently the star of the show, the sides and salads can be just as crucial in completing the meal.

Here are some suggestions for mouthwatering braai sides and salads to serve at your upcoming braai, including the traditional South African fare of pap en sous and braai broodies:

Grilled Corn: Nothing compares to the sweetness and smokiness of roasted corn on the cob. The corn only needs to be husked, brushed with olive oil, and then grilled for 10 to 15 minutes over medium heat while being turned occasionally. Before brushing the corn, combine spices with olive oil to give flavour.

Pap en Sous: This dish is made with spicy tomato relish and maize meal porridge (pap) (sous). The side dish is ideal for a braai. In South Africa, mielie meal, often known as pap, is a common staple cuisine. You can count on getting pap with a hearty tomato relish if you’re invited to a braai. Cook some maizemeal in a pot until thick and smooth, and prepare the tomato relish.

Braai Broodjies: In South Africa, these bbq toasties are known as “braai broodjies” and are an all-time favourite. Butter two slices of bread, then sandwich various contents like cheese, tomato, and onion between them to make them. Until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, grill the sandwiches over medium heat. Additional fillings can be added, including different cheeses, chutney, bacon, or grilled mushrooms. Here are some great recipes for braai broodjies.

Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad made with potatoes is a traditional braai side dish to die for. To make this dish, boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, and then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Mayonnaise, sliced onions, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and any suitable veggies should be combined with the potatoes. Add salt, pepper, and any additional spices you want. Here is a fantastic creamy potato salad recipe.

Coleslaw: This light salad pairs beautifully with the smokey flavours of a braai. Shred the cabbage and carrots, then combine them with the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and other seasonings of your choice to make coleslaw. Making this salad a few hours in advance will allow the flavours to mingle.

Watermelon and Feta Salad: The sweet and salty salad made with watermelon and feta is a welcome break from the typical braai sides. Watermelon (simple or braaied) dice, feta cheese crumbles, and chopped fresh mint leaves should all be combined. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar can be used to dress the salad.

Whatever sides and salads you offer at your braai, they’ll be sure to spice things up and add flavour. Enjoy your braai.

Nou Gaan OZ Braai!