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Independence Day Braai Platter (Independence Day Braai)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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2
Servings

Ingredients

  • Boerewors sausage — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
  • Beef steaks — 4
  • Chicken pieces, bone-in — 4
  • Kudu or other game steaks — 4
  • Braai spice, for seasoning
  • Oil — 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper — to taste

Method

  1. Season all the meats generously with braai spice, salt and pepper, and let sit at room temperature for
  2. 20 minutes.
  3. Prepare a large charcoal fire and let it burn down to glowing coals.
  4. Grill the boerewors first, turning occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Grill the chicken pieces for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
  6. Grill the beef and game steaks to your preferred doneness, being careful not to overcook the lean game meat.
  7. Arrange all the grilled meats together on large platters for a generous, shared celebratory spread.

Introduction: A generous mixed grill of boerewors, steak, chicken and game meat, prepared for Namibia's Independence Day celebrations on 21 March.

Cultural Background: Namibia's Independence Day is marked by large community and family gatherings centred around the braai, bringing together the country's diverse culinary traditions — from boerewors to game meats — in a shared celebratory feast.

Tips: Grill the game meat separately and briefly, as it is leaner and can dry out if overcooked compared to beef. Stagger the different meats according to their cooking times for everything to be ready together.

Variations: Add grilled vegetables and traditional sides like oshifima or pap to round out the feast. Serve with a selection of Namibian salads such as beetslaai and boontjieslaai.

Storage: Refrigerate leftover grilled meats in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat, or briefly on the grill, to avoid drying out.

FAQs:

Q: When is Namibian Independence Day?

A: 21 March, commemorating Namibia's independence in 1990, widely celebrated with community gatherings and braais.

Q: Why include game meat specifically for this occasion?

A: It reflects Namibia's rich wildlife heritage and is often reserved for more special, celebratory meals.