By Zuko Komisa
A perfect braai is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Next time you are bestowed with the honour of being the braai master, here are a few hacks to help you rise to the challenge.

The perfect fire
Starting a fire is the first checklist to crack. Whether you’re using wood or charcoal, a well-balanced fire goes a long way in having a perfect braai.
Tips: If you don’t have any firelighters, no worries. Did you know how effective Doritos are when used as a firelighter? Try it, you’ll have a sizzling fire ready in no time. Alternatively throw in a few pinecones to keep the flames burning. You can also fill a container with dried teabags, then half-fill the container with paraffin. The teabags are going to soak up the paraffin to make great firelighters. Lastly, you can add sugar to wet wood. Sugar burns at a high temperature which helps to increase the internal temperature of the wood, making it easier to use for a braai.
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Seasoning and Flavour
Whatever your meat of choice is, the right seasoning and flavour will keep you guests coming for more.

Tips: For a taste explosion of flavour, add small stems of fresh herbs such as sage, rosemary or thyme to your fire. The flavourful aroma will be inviting. Another great hack is pouring apple juice into a spray bottle and spraying your meat. This improves colour, tenderness and flavour.
Tantalizing Fish
The perfect fish is always a great addition to your menu however, it sometimes need a bit of creativity to come out right.
Tips: Keep the skin to ensure the fish doesn’t fall apart, If you’re afraid of this happening anyway, cover your fish in foil or a newspaper. If you braai your fish directly on the braai grid, brush the fish lightly with oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill. Lastly, for added flavour lay it on a bed of lemon or lime juice, this will keep it from sticking to the grill and will give you a delicious citrusy aroma.

What are some of your favourite braai hacks that you’ve used over the years? Tweet us @kayafm95dot9 and tell us all about it.



