South African Oopsies Recipe: A Perfect Braai Snack
May
When it comes to South African braai traditions, few snacks bring as much joy as Oopsies. These delightful bacon-and-cherry bites are simple, delicious, and packed with sweet and savoury flavour. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving something unique, Oopsies are sure to steal the show at your next braai.
What Are Oopsies?
Oopsies are bite-sized snacks made by wrapping sweet glacé cherries in salty streaky bacon and then grilling them to crispy perfection. Their playful name matches their whimsical flavour—a classic example of South Africans’ creativity at the grill.
Although the precise historical origin of the name "Oopsies" for bacon-wrapped cherries remains undocumented, it has become a widely recognised and cherished term for this braai snack in South Africa.
Add a sprinkle of OZ Braai Awesome Spice during cooking, such as the Sweet and Smoky for a rich barbecue flavour or the Very Peri for a spicy kick, and you’ll take these little bites to the next level.
Prepare the Braai
Heat your braai (BBQ) to medium heat. Ensure the coals are ready and evenly distributed.
Assemble the Oopsies
Take one glacé cherry and wrap it tightly in a strip of bacon.
Secure with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat until all the cherries and bacon are used.
Season for Extra Flavour (Optional)
Lightly sprinkle OZ Braai Awesome Spice over the Oopsies. For a sweet, smoky flavour, use Sweet and Smoky. For a spicy twist, opt for Very Peri.
Grill to Perfection
Place the Oopsies directly on the braai grid or use a grill basket like the OZ Braai Travel Braai.
Grill for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the grill and serve immediately as a snack or appetiser.
Tips and Variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a whole almond or cashew inside the cherry before wrapping it with bacon for a surprise crunch.
- Glazed Delight: Brush the bacon with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and mustard before grilling for a caramelised finish.
- Alternative Fillings: Swap cherries for dried fruits like dates or apricots for a different flavour profile.
- Dip It: Pair Oopsies with a dipping sauce, like a creamy garlic aioli or tangy barbecue sauce.
Equipment:
- Compact or Mini Braai
- Travel Braai or Camp Braai: To place the Oopsies in.
- Toothpicks or Small Skewers: Crucial for securing the bacon around the cherries.
- OZ Braai Awesome Spice
Why They’re a Braai Essential
Oopsies embody everything amazing about South African braai culture: simplicity, bold flavours, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Adding OZ Braai Awesome Spice elevates these tasty treats, making them even more irresistible.
Perfect for gatherings, festive occasions, or simply as a flavourful snack, Oopsies will quickly become a favourite on your braai menu.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the braai, and enjoy this phenomenal South African delight with a unique OZ Braai twist!
Don't forget to stock up on OZ Braai Awesome Spice to bring out the best in your Oopsies. Visit our website for more braai recipes and tips!
Happy braaing!
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Braai
Heat your braai (BBQ) to medium heat. Ensure the coals are ready and evenly distributed.
Assemble the Oopsies
Take one glacé cherry and wrap it tightly in a strip of bacon.
Secure with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat until all the cherries and bacon are used.
Season for Extra Flavour (Optional)
Lightly sprinkle OZ Braai Awesome Spice over the Oopsies. For a sweet, smoky flavour, use Sweet and Smoky. For a spicy twist, opt for Very Peri.
Grill to Perfection
Place the Oopsies directly on the braai grid or use a grill basket like the OZ Braai Travel Braai.
Grill for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the grill and serve immediately as a snack or appetiser.
