If you’re new to the world of braai, you’re in for a smoky, flavour-packed adventure. While Australians love their BBQs, the South African braai is more than just a cooking method — it’s a cultural event, a gathering, and a tradition.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What exactly is a braai?
- The cultural significance of braai in South Africa
- How it differs from the classic Australian BBQ
- Why braai culture is catching on in Australia
What Is a Braai?
The word braai (pronounced “bry”) comes from the Afrikaans word for “grill” or “roast.” At its core, a braai is an open-flame wood or charcoal barbecue, often built into a fixed masonry unit or housed in a freestanding steel grill.
But here’s what makes it different: The braai is an event — not just a meal. It’s a social experience that centres around the fire itself. Guests often gather around the flames, drink in hand, long before the food hits the grill.
In fact, in South Africa, there’s even a national holiday dedicated to it: Braai Day, also known as Heritage Day (September 24th), where millions fire up their braais to celebrate culture and unity.
The Cultural Roots of Braai in South Africa
In South Africa, a braai is sacred. It brings together friends, families, neighbours, and even strangers. It’s not uncommon for conversations, laughter, and storytelling to continue well after the meat has been devoured.
Key elements of the traditional braai:
- Wood fire preferred over gas for flavour and authenticity
- Hardwood like camelthorn or kameeldoring for long-lasting embers
- Multiple meat types: boerewors, steak, lamb chops, chicken thighs, sosaties
- Pap and chakalaka (a maize porridge with spicy relish) on the side
- No one touches the braai except the braaimaster — it’s a badge of honour!
Braai vs Australian BBQ: What’s the Difference?
Australia has one of the strongest barbecue cultures in the world — but there are a few key differences between the Aussie BBQ and the South African braai:
| Element | Aussie BBQ | South African Braai |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | Mostly gas | Mostly wood or charcoal |
| Setup | Portable gas BBQs | Built-in or freestanding wood-fire grills |
| Style | Quick grill and serve | Slow, social, fire-focused |
| Food focus | Snags, prawns, burgers | Boerewors, lamb chops, sosaties |
| Cultural role | Social but casual | Deeply cultural and ceremonial |
In short, where a BBQ is often the means to an end (the food), a braai is the entire journey — from lighting the fire to the last glass of red wine.
Why Braai Culture Is Growing in Australia
With more South African expats settling in Australia, the love of braai has spread. And it’s not just the South African community getting into it — Aussies are loving the smoky, wood-fired flavour and the laid-back experience of braai entertaining.
At Hornos BBQ, we’ve seen demand grow for:
- Authentic built-in braais for outdoor kitchens
- Freestanding braais for more flexible setups
- Heavy-duty steel units with wood or charcoal capabilities
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a full-on celebration, a braai makes it memorable.
Want to Start Braaing in Australia?
Explore our full range of authentic South African braai grills — designed for Aussie backyards and built to last.
Need help choosing? Check out our Braai Buying Guide → (Coming Soon)
Stay Tuned for More
Coming soon:
- How to Choose the Right Braai Grill (Built-in vs Freestanding)
- Top 5 Braai Recipes for Your Next Backyard Party
- Braai Maintenance Tips & Cleaning Guide