BRAAI CULTURE LUTHO PASIYA IF YOU are a South African, you are almost certainly familiar with arriving at a braai and hoping that everything is in full swing, only to find that the food is not ready. But that also means something – that it will be a good time to lounge around and make small talk, or help prepare the food.
THE SIDE DISH QUEEN You are excellent at making salads, sauces and making sure that it’s not just meat on the plate, but also vegetables, rolls and a variety of starches. You make sure that everyone is eating a balanced meal. THE ENTERTAINER No braai is complete without you. As irritating as people may find your jokes, sometimes, your presence is missed if you haven’t been invited to the braai. Your partner may detest how much of a court jester you are, but they understand that you make your friends happy, which probably makes them love you even more. THE ICE BOY Even though many people may think it’s a demeaning role, getting the ice is as important as the meat and the sides. Hear us out. Nobody wants to drink a beverage without any ice. Half the time the hosts won’t have enough ice in their freezer anyway. And there’s also the chance that there are other missing ingredients. So while you miss out on the general fun, you are responsible for making everyone’s
The braai is a ritual of sorts; an essential foundation of social life across the country. But as a fun exercise, do you know what role you play at the braai? Are you the braai master, the side dish queen or the ice boy? Every braai has one of these individuals. This is how you spot them.
beverage taste even better. THE GROWN UP As much as you love being at a braai and hanging with your friends, you also realise that there’s a good chance someone will leave intoxicated, and so you make sure everyone consumes enough water. You are the prefect of the braai. THE BRAAI MASTER You know all the tricks of the trade. You are able to braai chicken perfectly without burning it (or undercooking it). You respect vegetables and braai them perfectly. Everyone knows not to interfere with your methods because you have proved time and again that you are the best. THE SOMMELIER Just like the side dish queen, braai master and ice boy, your job is very important. Everyone trusts you with their beverage. You make the perfect cocktails, know which beverage pairs well for the braai and are always suggesting new beverages to try out.
