Braai Sauce

Braai Sauce Recipe - Authentic South African BBQ Sauce

Region / culture: South Africa | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Braai sauce is a quintessential component of South African cuisine, embodying the spirit of the traditional braai - a social barbecue that is much more than just a meal, but an event. This sauce, with its rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile, is versatile and can elevate the taste of grilled meats, vegetables, and even be used as a marinade. The recipe provided here is a classic take on the traditional braai sauce, incorporating a harmonious blend of spices, sweetness, and acidity to complement the smoky flavors of barbecued foods.

History

The tradition of the braai and its accompanying sauces dates back centuries in South Africa, evolving from indigenous cooking methods and influenced by the myriad of cultures that have called this country home. The Dutch, Malays, Indians, and British, among others, have all left their mark on South African cuisine, contributing to the rich, diverse flavors found in braai sauces today. This particular recipe is a modern interpretation that pays homage to its multicultural roots, combining ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco, which reflect the global influences on South African cooking.

Ingredients

3 or 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
2 medium onions, finely chopped
1 green sweet pepper, finely chopped
50 ml brown vinegar
15 ml cooking oil
1 tin of tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
30 ml worcestershire sauce
2 ml tabasco sauce
50 ml brown sugar
5 ml French mustard
30 ml fruit chutney (preferably peach chutney, or can be replaced with peach jam)

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a heavy saucepan.
Fry the onions, garlic, and sweet pepper until the onions are translucent.
Add the vinegar and the remaining ingredients, then simmer for 30 minutes.

Variations

For a spicier version, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add chopped chili peppers. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider using more jam or adding a bit of honey. For a smoky flavor, a teaspoon of smoked paprika can be a great addition.

References

↑ Apple cider vinegar and malt vinegar are both "brown vinegar"

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use fresh ingredients wherever possible, especially for the garlic, onions, and sweet pepper, as they form the flavor base of the sauce. Cooking the sauce on low heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you find the sauce too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little water or more vinegar, depending on your taste preference. For a smoother sauce, blend the cooked mixture before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as steak, chicken, or lamb. It can also be used as a marinade to infuse dishes with its rich flavor or served as a condiment with burgers, sausages, and vegetable skewers.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making this sauce is the slow simmering, which allows the flavors to develop fully. For a smoother texture, blending the sauce after cooking is recommended.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brown sugar is not available, white sugar or honey can be used as alternatives. Apple cider vinegar can replace brown vinegar for a slightly different acidity profile. Tomato sauce can be used in place of tomato paste and tinned tomatoes if necessary.

Make Ahead Tips

This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the sauce in a bowl garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a touch of color. For a rustic presentation, consider using a mason jar or a traditional South African potjie pot.

Pairing Recommendations

This sauce pairs beautifully with a robust red wine, such as a South African Pinotage or Shiraz, which can complement the rich flavors of the sauce and grilled meats.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this braai sauce is relatively low in calories, with most of the caloric content coming from the brown sugar and oil. A typical serving size (about 2 tablespoons) would contain approximately 40-50 calories.

Carbohydrates

This braai sauce is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the brown sugar, vegetables, and jam. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used but expect approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The sauce contains a minimal amount of fat, coming primarily from the cooking oil used to sauté the vegetables. Using 15 ml of cooking oil, the total fat content is low, making this sauce a healthy addition to any dish.

Proteins

Braai sauce is not a significant source of protein, as it is primarily composed of vegetables and condiments. Any protein content would be negligible.

Vitamins and minerals

The vegetables in this sauce, particularly the sweet peppers and tomatoes, contribute vitamins A and C, both of which are antioxidants that support immune health. The sauce also contains small amounts of minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, individuals with sensitivities to nightshades should be cautious due to the tomatoes and sweet peppers.

Summary

Overall, this braai sauce is a low-calorie, low-fat option that can add a burst of flavor to dishes without significantly impacting your dietary intake. It's a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying the rich flavors of South African cuisine.

Summary

This traditional South African braai sauce recipe is a celebration of flavors, perfect for enhancing any barbecue. With its rich history and versatile use, it's a must-try for anyone looking to explore the tastes of South Africa. Whether used as a marinade, condiment, or dipping sauce, it's sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I had just arrived at a friend's house for a braai (South African barbecue). As I walked into the backyard, I could smell the delicious aroma of meat sizzling on the grill.

My friend's husband was busy basting the meat with a rich, savory sauce that looked like it was bursting with flavor. I couldn't resist asking him for the recipe, and he was more than happy to share it with me.

He told me that the key to a good braai sauce was in the balance of sweet and tangy flavors, along with a hint of smokiness. He explained that his secret ingredient was a dash of Worcestershire sauce, which added a depth of flavor that was simply irresistible.

I listened intently as he listed off the ingredients and instructions, making mental notes of everything he said. I was eager to try my hand at making this delicious sauce for myself.

As I gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and discovering new recipes always brought me joy.

After simmering the sauce on the stove for a few minutes, I decided to taste it to see if it needed any adjustments. As soon as the rich, smoky flavor hit my taste buds, I knew I had nailed it. This braai sauce was a winner.

I proudly served the sauce alongside the grilled meat at my next family gathering, and it was a hit. Everyone raved about how delicious it was, and they begged me to share the recipe with them.

From that day on, the braai sauce became a staple at all of our family gatherings. It was a recipe that brought us together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it uniquely mine. But the essence of that first braai sauce recipe remains, a reminder of where it all began.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for braai sauce, I can't help but feel grateful for the people who have shared their culinary secrets with me over the years.

Each recipe I have collected has a story behind it, a memory that brings me joy every time I recreate it in my kitchen. And the braai sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together.

So the next time you fire up the grill for a braai, remember to whip up a batch of this delicious sauce. I promise it will elevate your meal to a whole new level, and maybe even create some unforgettable memories along the way. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good times.