1. Mushrooms

Mushrooms were the most popular suggestion for a braai, and it's easy to see why. There are so many types of mushrooms and even more ways to prep them for your braai. You can glaze and grill portobello mushrooms, skewer and marinate button mushrooms, or create a rub for oyster mushrooms. We highly recommend trying Khanya Mzongwana's jerk-style oyster mushrooms; they're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Jerk-style oyster mushrooms recipe

2. Epic salads and sides

The main focus may be on the food being braaied, but salads and sides are always standouts at a braai. And when you're at a plant-based braai, they could even be the main event. The TASTE community loves potato salads and, honestly, is it even a braai without one? As for sides, chakalaka came out tops. Here's a version by Nhlaka Mtshali that's made directly on the braai!

Chunky braaied chakalaka recipe

Note: The dombolo in the chunky braaied chakalaka recipe is not plant-based. 

ALSO READ: 6 plant-based dinners you’ll love

3. Sweetcorn

Everyone loves sweetcorn at a braai! It's the perfect veg to braai – it's sturdy and easy to handle on the grid, plus the heat caramelises its natural sugars, creating irresistible charred kernels with a smoky-sweet flavour. Season as you see fit. Make it indulgent by brushing it with dairy-free butter infused with herbs and garlic, or keep it simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you want to go all out, try Khanya's spicy-sweet marinade, which features pineapple, chilli and lime.

Braaied sweetcorn recipe

4. Beyond Burgers

This one is for those who miss the meat but still want to keep things plant-based. The Beyond range is high in protein and really delivers when it comes to flavour and texture. The burger rounds will give you the smoky braai burger you crave – top it with your favourite sauces and toppings and enjoy. If you need some inspo, try Bianca Strydom's Asian-inspired plant-based burger with crisp slaw.

Asian-inspired plant-based burger with crisp slaw recipe

ALSO READ: 3 delicious plant-based substitutes

5. Garlic bread and braaibroodjies

Thank goodness for plant-based breads, spreads and cheese so you can still enjoy these classics! Whether you keep them simple or customise them to your taste, there's a lot to play with when it comes to garlic bread and braaibroodjies. They will always be a hit! To get your creative juices flowing, check out Hannah Lewry's vegan braaibroodjies, which feature a delicious home-made pesto.

 Vegan braaibroodjies recipe