The Common Sense's Christmas Braai Recipe

If you're looking to break away from the traditional Christmas chicken and gammon, why not try a festive braai instead?

A Christmas braai offers a flavourful and casual alternative, with dishes such as delicious beef ribs or steaks, juicy lamb sosaties, grilled vegetables, and a fresh tomato and avocado salad. Perfect for serving a group, it’s an excellent way to enjoy Christmas with family and friends, while adding a fun and vibrant twist to your holiday meal.

Serves: 6-8 people

Ingredients:

1. Beef Ribs (or Steak)
   • 1.5kg beef ribs (or 6-8 steaks if preferred)
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
   • 1 tbsp thyme, finely chopped
   • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
   • Juice of 1 lemon
   • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2. Lamb Sosaties
   • 1kg lamb (cubed)
   • 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
   • 1 yellow pepper (cut into chunks)
   • 1 green pepper (cut into chunks)
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 1 tbsp garlic powder
   • 1 tbsp paprika
   • 1 tsp cumin
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • 2 tbsp lemon juice
3. Grilled Vegetables (as a side)
   • 2 large baby marrows, sliced
   • 1 butternut, peeled and cut into cubes
   • 2 bell peppers, chopped
   • 1 red onion, sliced
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 1 tsp dried oregano
   • Salt and pepper to taste
4. Fresh Tomato and Avocado Salad
   • 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
   • 2 ripe avocados, chopped
   • 1 red onion, finely chopped
   • Handful of fresh coriander, chopped
   • Juice of 1 lime
   • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Ribs (or Steaks):

• In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
• Rub the mixture over the beef ribs (or steaks) and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you have the time.
• Grill the ribs for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach your desired level of doneness. For steaks, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for your preferred doneness.

2. Prepare the Lamb Sosaties:

• In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Toss the lamb cubes in the marinade and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb the flavours.
• Thread the lamb cubes, peppers, and onions onto skewers, alternating between the lamb and vegetables.
• Braai the sosaties for 15-20 minutes, turning regularly until the lamb is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.

3. Grilled Vegetables:

• In a large bowl, toss the baby marrows, butternut, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Place the vegetables directly on the braai grid or in a vegetable basket. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly charred.

4. Fresh Tomato and Avocado Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, avocados, red onion, and fresh coriander.
• Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
• Toss gently and set aside to let the flavours blend.

Serving:

• Serve the beef ribs (or steaks), lamb sosaties, and grilled vegetables with the fresh tomato and avocado salad on the side. For an added touch, serve with some delicious potato salad, garlic bread, or even a light couscous salad.

Enjoy your festive braai with family and friends, and have a merry Christmas without the chicken or gammon!