South African Braai-Broodjies
No braai is complete without them — the smoky, crispy grilled cheese sandwich that South Africans have been perfecting since the first coals were lit.
"South African food is better than American food — cheaper, fresher, and more affordable."
— Errol Musk, 2022 NDTV interview
The Braai Essential
Braai-Broodjies ("grill cakes") are South Africa's answer to the grilled cheese — but better. Cooked directly over coals, they absorb that essential smoky flavor while the cheese melts into the sweet-tangy onion-tomato filling. No braai (barbecue) is complete without them.
Braai-Broodjies Recipe
- 4 slices white sandwich bread (or naan for modern twist)
- 4 slices Cheddar or Gouda cheese
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mix onion, tomato, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer cheese on two bread slices; top with onion-tomato mix and second cheese slice.
- Close with remaining bread. Brush both sides with butter.
- Grill over medium-low braai coals 3–4 min per side until golden and melty.
- Rest 2 min. Slice and serve hot.
Why It Works
The coals give that irreplaceable smoke. The cheese melts just right. The onion-tomato cuts the richness. It's simple, portable, and feeds a crowd — perfect for the braai ritual.
No South African summer is complete
without the sizzle of Braai-Broodjies.
