Easy, midweek braai recipes

By Jess Spiro, 4 July 2022

Who says you can’t braai on a weeknight? Spring is here, the days are longer and with Abigail Donnelly’s easy dinners – from lime-and-chilli lamb ribs to chimichurri fish – you’ll be firing things up from Monday to Thursday just because you can

Shisanyama-style chuck with harissa cauliflower salad

This is when shopping smart makes all the difference. These chucks are pre-seasoned and cook quickly so they're perfect for a weeknight dinner.

shisanyama-style chuck with harissa cauliflower saladGet the recipe for shisanyama-style chuck with harissa cauliflower salad here.

Chimichurri fish with apple-and-baby marrow slaw

Keep the skin on when braaiing fish to stop it breaking. Cook it skin-side down and don’t turn it! Then use an egg-lifter (not tongs) to remove it when done. Substitute the tilapia with any sustainable fish and double the chimichurri to use on any leftover braai meat.
chimichurri fish with apple and baby marrow slawGet the recipe for chimichurri fish with apple-and-baby marrow slaw here.

Pickle-brined chicken on the braai with ranch dressing

A take on the winning formula for deep-fried chicken but done on the braai. It’s a great weekday option. Make sure you keep a medium heat going otherwise the chicken won’t cook evenly.
pickle brined chicken with ranch dressingGet the recipe for pickle-brined chicken on the braai with ranch dressing here.

Oyster steaks with mushroom butter and chips

“Oyster” steaks are found above the rump and cook really quickly – meaning they're great for an impromptu braai. Always bring the meat to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking and a juicy pink colour.
oyster steaks with mushroom butter and chipsGet the recipe for oyster steaks with mushroom butter and chips here.

Smoky pork rib-eye steaks with flatbreads

The bigger the cut, the longer the marinating time. Ten minutes for thin steaks and a couple of hours for thicker cuts.
smoky pork ribeye steaks with flatbreadsGet the recipe for smoky pork rib-eye steaks with flatbreads here.

Lamb ribbetjies with coconut, chilli and lime and smoky mustard potato salad

Lamb ribs are chewier than lamb chops, but more flavourful. Serve with baked potatoes if you don't fancy the salad and freeze any leftover coconut cream from the marinade.
lamb ribbetjies with coconut, lime and chilliGet the recipe for lamb ribbejties with coconut, chilli and lime here.

Braaied plant-based sausages

Even non-vegans will love these because of their sticky, charred flavour. Stuff them into rolls for a plant-based boerie.
braaied plant based sausagesGet the recipe for braaied plant-based sausages here.

Looking for more braai inspiration? Find our braai recipe collection here.

Jess Spiro

Article by Jess Spiro

Jess Spiro is a freelance food writer, chef and restaurant critic based in Cape Town, who can often be found in search of the next great plate of food. Follow her on Instagram @jess_spiro to see what she's eating.
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