Braai etiquette – How to braai like a local
There are some things that one needs to know before coming to South Africa and experiencing a traditional braai. We’ve decoded the etiquette and expectations for you below.
An invitation to a braai will often include instructions on what you are expected to bring and what will be provided by the host or hostess. If the braai is called a “chop ‘n dop” it means you are expected to bring your own meat (chop) as well as your own beverages (dop). In this case, the hostess will provide the sides, salads and of course the fire and coals to grill your meat. If you are invited to a “bring and braai,” that means you are expected to bring everything except the fire!
Most braais will be on a weekend and start in the late afternoon, around 3 or 4pm, and can sometimes carry on into the early hours of the morning. An important piece of advice is NOT to arrive hungry as most often you will find that you won’t end up eating until quite late in the event (although the snacks will help).
Your meat will be cooked by the “braai master,” which is normally the host. When you arrive, ask where you should put your meat and drinks and ask if you can help with anything. You’ll normally be offered a drink and then introduced to the rest of the people at the braai. The rugby may be on in which case make sure you know who’s playing. Otherwise, you can settle in, sit back and enjoy the experience like a local.
Hope to see you all at Our next Braai!!!