This article describes the traditions and rituals surrounding a Christmas braai in South Africa, highlighting the importance of this cultural practice.
Down South, people say the last thing they want for a Christmas lunch is a hot, table-groaning roast with trimmings. Because it is hot here in December, many will settle to sit outside in the extreme heat and braai meat over fiery charcoal. Yeah, we built that way… But in South Africa braaing has assumed almost mythical qualities.
A Christmas braai is no different and many do not discriminate with the hard-core experts never dropping standards – even if it is an impromptu fishing trip braai or a Christmas lunch one with family and friends gathered… the bar is never lowered. So what is needed for that perfect braai? Charcoal and wood. Do not use newspaper – the pundits will frown at this with the assumption that the lead from the ink will contaminate the meat. In the same vein, do not use too many firelighters or charcoal which includes ready-made fire lighter liquid. Go for the long-lasting stuff backed up by old-fashioned wood. Watching the flames gather speed while swirling a brandy and Coke is about as South African as watching Eben score a try. Comments will be made by-standers as the fire maker does his thing. Family members, especially those who have flown in from exotic places to spend Christmas at your humble home, will provide the most barbed remarks. Comments will range from 'When I was in the army I made a fire by rubbing a piece of wood on the heel of my boot' to 'In Australia we don't call it a braai but basically it's the same thing'. The latter comment will elicit stares of disbelief which will be tampered with the urge not to disrupt the family lunch. No one watching will get their hands dirty in a bid to help the fire maker. Even a runway piece of charcoal will be merely scuffed away. ALSO READ: The 8 best sides for your next braai Meanwhile, the womenfolk will huddle around inside the kitchen, making salads that no one will ea
SOUTH AFRICA CHRISTMAS BRAAI TRADITIONS CULTURE
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
NOT-so-merry South African Post Office this ChristmasIt’s 'no-no-no' instead of 'ho-ho-ho' for the South African Post Office this Christmas, as the treasury rejects another bailout proposal ...
Read more »
Unique South African Christmas TraditionsExplore 10 distinctive Christmas customs celebrated in South Africa, from braai feasts to beach picnics and carols by candlelight. Discover how South Africans embrace the festive season with their own unique flair.
Read more »
Severe Storms and Heatwaves to Dominate South African Christmas WeatherThe South African Weather Service has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms leading to localized flooding, hail, and fire dangers across multiple provinces.
Read more »
South African Food Basket Prices Dip Slightly for ChristmasThe average price of a food basket containing staples in South Africa has decreased slightly compared to last year, offering some relief to shoppers during the Christmas season. While some items like rice and maize meal saw price increases, others like potatoes, butternut, and eggs experienced significant drops. The overall cost of the basket is now R1 600.45, down from R1 654.07 last year.
Read more »
South African Influencers Share Joyful Christmas CelebrationsThis article highlights how prominent South Africans celebrated Christmas amidst the country's sunny summer weather.
Read more »
Christmas Family Feud: South African Family's Luncheon Turns Into BrawlA South African family's Christmas lunch turned chaotic when feuding members engaged in a heated argument that nearly escalated into a physical fight. The grandmother, fed up with the commotion, walked out. Social media users expressed amusement and shared their reactions to the family drama.
Read more »