What Is a Braai? The South African BBQ Tradition Explained

If you’ve spent time around South Africans, you’ve probably heard the word braai. But what exactly is it — and how is it different from a BBQ?

A braai (pronounced bry, like “cry”) is South Africa’s version of a barbecue — but it’s much more than just cooking meat. It’s a tradition, a social event, and for many living in Christchurch, it’s a powerful taste of home.

What Makes a Braai Different from a BBQ?

While Kiwis love a good BBQ, a braai has its own identity.

1. Charcoal or Wood Over Gas.

A traditional braai is cooked over wood or hot coals, not gas. The flavour from burning hardwood gives meat that unmistakable smoky depth South Africans crave.

2. It’s Not Rushed.

A braai is an occasion. The fire is lit early, people gather around it, and no one is in a hurry. The fire is part of the experience.

3. The Fire Master

At every braai, there’s usually one person in charge of the fire. This isn’t a shared responsibility it’s a respected role!

What Food Is Cooked at a Braai?

If you’re looking to recreate a proper braai in Christchurch, these are the essentials:

• Boerewors

South Africa’s iconic coiled sausage. Juicy, spiced, and never pierced while cooking (that’s a rule!).

• Steak & Lamb Chops

Simple seasoning, cooked over real coals.

• Pap & Chakalaka

A traditional maize side dish served with a spicy vegetable relish.

• Garlic Bread or Braai Broodjies

Toasted sandwiches with cheese, onion, and chutney cooked on the grid.

You can find authentic braai ingredients right here in Christchurch at Taste of Africa, making it easy to recreate the experience properly.

The Must-Have Extras

No braai is complete without:

• Mrs Ball’s Chutney

• Braai spice blends

• Fresh rolls for boerewors

• Ice-cold drinks

• Biltong for snacking while the fire settles

These are the small details that turn a BBQ into a real braai.

Why Braai Means So Much to South Africans

For South Africans, a braai is more than food.

It’s:

• Sunday afternoons with family

• Rugby playing in the background

• Long summer evenings

• Laughter around the fire

When you move countries, traditions matter even more. A braai brings community together and keeps culture alive — even on the other side of the world.

Where to Buy Braai Food in Christchurch

If you’re searching for:

• South African food in Christchurch

• Braai meat in NZ

• Boerewors in Christchurch

• African groceries in Christchurch

Taste of Africa stocks the essentials to help you braai properly — whether you’re hosting fellow expats or introducing Kiwis to the tradition for the first time.

Ready to Light the Fire?

Whether you’re missing home or simply curious about South African culture, a braai is the perfect place to start.

Visit Taste of Africa in Christchurch and bring the flavour — and the fire — back to life.