Blog, News, Tips and Tricks
The Ultimate Braaibroodjie Masterclass: Techniques, Flavours & Pro Tips
Aug
Few things evoke the spirit of a proper South African braai quite like the humble braaibroodjie. Originating as a simple addition to weekend fires, these grilled sandwiches evolved into iconic staples of braai culture—symbols of community, creativity and pure comfort food. Golden, smoky and gooey, the perfect braaibroodjie isn’t just a snack—it’s a rite of passage. For South Africans enjoying life in Australia, it’s also a slice of home, best shared over hot coals with good friends and an ice-cold beer.
In this masterclass, we’ll walk you through everything you’ve ever wanted to know—from classic combos to gourmet variations, heat control tips, camping hacks, and the best OZ Braai gear to make every flip count.
Table of Contents
Essential Gear & Ingredients
The perfect braaibroodjie starts with the right tools. Here’s what we recommend:
Gear:
- OZ Braai Camp Braai or Travel Braai – secure clamp and optimal spacing
- Heat‑Resistant Gloves – safe flipping over hot coals
- Braai Tongs – for controlled movement on the fire
- Cutting Board – for assembly and serving
Bread Choices:
- White sandwich bread (for classic)
- Sourdough or ciabatta (for gourmet)
- Rye or seeded loaf (extra flavour)
Cheese Options:
- Mature cheddar (classic)
- Mozzarella, gouda, camembert, brie, or halloumi (for variations)
Spreads & Extras:
- Mrs Ball’s Chutney (non‑negotiable)
- Onion, tomato, bacon, jalapeño, pesto, banana, Nutella, etc.
Step‑by‑Step Classic Braaibroodjie Recipe
The traditional South African favourite is simple, nostalgic and unbeatable when executed well.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices white bread
- Grated or sliced cheddar
- 2–3 tomato slices
- Thin onion rings
- Mrs Ball’s Chutney
- Butter (for the inside AND outside)
Method:
- Butter the outside and inside of each slice.
- Spread chutney inside.
- Layer cheddar, tomato, onion.
- Clamp in your OZ Braai Camp Braai grid.
- Braai over medium coals for about 3 minutes per side, until golden and melted.
- Rest for 1 minute before slicing.
Tip: Remember to flip regulary and remember, DO NOT TAKE YOUR EYES OF IT. It can burn in an instance.
Heat Management 101
Achieving a crisp exterior and perfectly melted centre is all about heat control:
- Coal Colour: Wait until coals are grey with no active flames.
- Direct Heat: Crispier finish; flip the the grid regularly.
- Indirect Heat: Best for thick sandwiches or slow melting cheese.
- Flip Often: Every 30–60 seconds to prevent burnt outsides and cold centres.
7 Gourmet Braaibroodjie Variations
Each is a full recipe in its own right (links to follow):
Camembert & Bacon on Sourdough – rich, creamy, smoky. Pair with onion chutney.
Gourmet Braaibroodjies on Sourdough with Camembert and Bacon
Bacon & Egg Breakfast Braaibroodjie – mozzarella, streaky bacon, fried egg. Breakfast perfection.
Chocolate Hazelnut & Banana – sweet end to your braai. Butter bread with cinnamon sugar for crunch.
Traditional Tomato & Onion – a nostalgic classic.
Traditional South African Braaibroodjies (BBQ Toasties) with Cheese, Tomato and Onion
Luxe Gourmet Stack – layers of meat, cheese and herbs. Decadent indulgence.
Halloumi, Pesto & Roasted Red Pepper – coming soon.
Biltong & Smoked Gouda – coming soon.
Breakfast & Dessert Braaibroodjies
Shine the spotlight on these:
Bacon & Egg Braaibroodjie – hearty and satisfying.
Nutella & Banana Braaibroodjie – sweet and indulgent, a crowd favourite.
Make‑Ahead & Camping Tips
- Pre‑assemble and wrap in foil.
- Use your Travel Braai or Camp Braai for over‑fire cooking.
- Buttered outsides retain crispness even after thawing.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Q: Why is my braaibroodjie soggy?
Slice the tomato and onions very fine—and avoid overloading with chutney.
Q: My cheese isn’t melting — what should I do?
Use indirect heat and flip regularly for gooier results.
Q: It’s sticking to the grid — how can I fix that?
Butter the bread on the outside.
Pairings & Serving Ideas
- Chakalaka or peri‑peri sauce
- Craft beer or ginger beer
- Braai pap & sous for a fuller meal
- Sliced pickles or jalapeños for a zingy finish
Ready to Braai?
Grab your OZ Braai grid, fire‑lighters, and spice blends—and start crafting your braaibroodjie legacy today:
