All Things South African / BBQ

South Africa is a land of rich culinary diversity, with a unique blend of flavours that reflect the nation’s vibrant culture.

South African cuisine is known for its bold flavours, rich spices, and vibrant combinations

South African cuisine is a rich fusion of flavours, blending indigenous ingredients with influences from European, Asian, and other African culinary traditions.

If you're looking to bring bold, vibrant flavours into your kitchen, there's no better cuisine to explore than South African. 

A South African braai is more than just a meal—it's a social event, a time for family and friends to come together, enjoy great food, and celebrate the outdoors.

South African cuisine is a melting pot of flavours, drawing influences from across the globe. 

When it comes to grilling, South Africans know how to do it best.

South African cuisine is known for its rich flavours, vibrant ingredients, and bold culinary fusions

Romany Creams Classic Choc Biscuits hold a special place in the hearts of South Africans. For decades, these rich, chocolate-filled biscuits have been a beloved treat enjoyed with tea, coffee, or simply on their own.

Blues Hog BBQ Wild Wing Sauce is known for its bold, tangy flavour that perfectly balances sweetness with heat.

If you are a fan of South African cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavours, finding a reliable South African butchery in the UK is essential. South African Spaza Shop, based in Swindon and offering nationwide delivery, stands out as a premier destination for authentic South African meats and groceries.

South African Butchery Meats

South African butchery meats are renowned for their distinctive flavours and high-quality ingredients. Traditional South African cuts and preparations reflect a rich culinary heritage influenced by various cultures, including Dutch, Malay, and indigenous African. From hearty sausages like boerewors to tender ribs perfect for a braai, these meats offer a taste of home for South African expatriates and a new culinary adventure for those unfamiliar with the cuisine.

South African Spaza Shop is a standout in the UK for its dedication to providing authentic South African products. Conveniently available for online shopping, this butchery offers delivery across the nation, ensuring you can enjoy traditional South African meats no matter where you live. Located in Swindon, the shop also welcomes visitors who prefer to handpick their selections and experience a bit of South African culture firsthand.

Our Selection of Butchery

Boerewors
Boerewors, a classic South African sausage, is a staple at South African Spaza Shop. Made from a mix of beef and pork, seasoned with coriander, black pepper, and nutmeg, boerewors is perfect for grilling. Its name, derived from the Afrikaans words for "farmer" (boer) and "sausage" (wors), highlights its rustic, homemade appeal. Boerewors is essential for any braai (South African barbecue) and pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

Kasgriller
Another speciality offered by South African Spaza Shop is kasgriller. This unique sausage is similar to boerewors but often incorporates a bit of cheese into the mix, adding a rich, creamy flavour that complements the spices beautifully. Kasgriller is a favourite for braais, providing a delightful twist on the traditional sausage with its melty cheese interior.

Pork Rashers
Pork rashers, also known as pork belly slices, are another popular item available at South African Spaza Shop. These succulent cuts are ideal for grilling or slow-cooking, providing a rich, savoury flavour that’s hard to resist. Pork rashers are often marinated in a blend of spices and sauces before cooking, ensuring they are bursting with flavour. They are a versatile option for any braai, perfect for pairing with a variety of sides and sauces.

Chicken
South African Spaza Shop also offers a range of chicken cuts, perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for whole chickens, drumsticks, or wings, their selection ensures you have the best quality meat for your recipes. Chicken is a versatile option for the braai, absorbing marinades and spices well and cooking up tender and juicy every time.

Ribs
Ribs are a braai favourite, and South African Spaza Shop provides some of the best. Whether you prefer beef or pork ribs, you can find high-quality, flavourful cuts that are perfect for slow-cooking on the grill. Ribs are often coated in a sweet and tangy marinade, then grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.


South African Spaza Shop in Swindon is the go-to destination for authentic South African butchery meats in the UK. Offering a wide selection of traditional favourites like boerewors, kasgriller, pork rashers, chicken, and ribs, this shop ensures you have everything you need for a perfect braai. With the convenience of online shopping and nationwide delivery, enjoying the flavours of South Africa has never been easier. Visit South African Spaza Shop online or in Swindon to discover the best South African products in the UK.

For many people around the world, the aroma of grilled meat on an open fire signals a gathering of friends and family, and a festive atmosphere. While BBQs are a familiar concept globally, in South Africa, a similar but culturally distinct practice known as a Braai holds a special place in the hearts of its people. 

Historical and Cultural Context

The term Braai originates from the Dutch word "braden," meaning to roast, and has evolved to be an integral part of South African culture, transcending racial and social divisions. A Braai is not just about cooking food; it's a social event that reinforces community bonds and celebrates South African heritage. On the other hand, BBQ—a term commonly used in the United States and other parts of the world—typically denotes a cooking method involving grilling food on a wire grid heated by gas, wood, or charcoal.

Cooking Techniques

One of the main differences between a Braai and a BBQ lies in the cooking techniques. A Braai exclusively uses charcoal or wood, which imparts a distinct smoky flavour to the food. The process is not just about cooking but about the experience of building and tending the fire, which is often seen as an art form in itself. In contrast, BBQs can utilise a variety of heat sources, including gas, which tends to be quicker and more convenient but doesn't provide the same smoky essence.

Additionally, the types of grills and tools used in a Braai are often heavier and more robust, designed to handle large cuts of meat and to withstand the intense heat of wood fires. BBQ setups might include more sophisticated gadgets and temperature controls, catering to a variety of cooking styles and preferences.

Types of Food

While both Braais and BBQs feature meat prominently, the types of meat and the way they are prepared can vary significantly. A traditional Braai would typically include boerewors (a spicy sausage), lamb chops, steaks, and chicken. These meats are often marinated with a simple yet flavourful mix of spices before grilling. Side dishes at a Braai are also distinct, featuring local favourites such as pap (a type of maize porridge), chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish), and braaibroodjes (grilled sandwiches).

In contrast, a typical American BBQ might serve burgers, hot dogs, ribs, and a variety of marinated or dry-rubbed meats. Side dishes could include coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread, reflecting a different regional palate.

Social Aspects

The social aspect of a Braai is perhaps what most distinctly sets it apart from a BBQ. A Braai is an event, often lasting several hours, where the act of cooking is just as important as the eating. Everyone usually gathers around the fire, and the responsibility of cooking is shared, creating a sense of community and participation. In contrast, at a BBQ, the cooking might be left to one or two people, with others socialising away from the heat source.

While both Braais and BBQs are enjoyable ways to cook food outdoors and socialise, a **Braai** offers a unique blend of culinary traditions, cultural significance, and communal engagement that is deeply embedded in South African society. Understanding these differences not only highlights the distinctive features of each but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry that food traditions contribute to globally. Whether it's a Braai or a BBQ, the spirit of community, good food, and good times remains universal. View our shop to get all the groceries you would need in this weather!