Cookbook:Braai (Zambian Barbecue)

Braai (Zambian Barbecue)
Category	Zambian recipes
Difficulty

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Braai is a traditional Zambian barbecue that brings people together for a delightful outdoor cooking experience. This method of grilling is popular in Zambia, especially during social gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 pounds beef, cut into skewer-friendly pieces

Equipment

• Grill or braai stand
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Plastic wrap

Procedure

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable oil, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Add the beef pieces to the marinade and toss them until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to enhance the flavors.
3. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
4. Preheat the grill or braai stand to medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated beef pieces onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook the beef for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are charred and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Once the beef is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

• You can use different cuts of beef, such as sirloin, ribeye, or rump, for the braai. Ensure the pieces are cut into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• For added flavor, you can add other spices or herbs to the marinade, such as thyme, rosemary, or ginger.
• If you prefer, you can also marinate chicken, pork, or lamb using the same marinade and grilling method.
• Braai is traditionally served with side dishes like nshima (maize meal porridge), salads, or grilled vegetables.