Tasty Tuesday: Braai Broodjie

Here’s a lekker Braai Broodjie recipe with 3 filling options!

Basic Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread
• Butter for spreading
• Salt and pepper to taste

Filling Option 1: Classic Cheese, Tomato, and Onion

• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

Filling Option 2: Chutney and Bacon

• 2 cups grated gouda or cheddar cheese
• 8 slices of cooked bacon
• 4 tablespoons chutney (Mrs. Ball’s is a popular choice)

Filling Option 3: Mushroom and Mozzarella

• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms (seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Butter one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outer side that gets toasted on the braai.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • For each sandwich, place one slice of bread on a clean surface, buttered side down.
3. Add the Fillings:
   • Classic Cheese, Tomato, and Onion:
     • Sprinkle a layer of grated cheddar cheese on the bread.
     • Add a few slices of tomato and onion.
     • Season with salt and pepper.
     • Top with another layer of cheese.
   • Chutney and Bacon:
     • Spread a tablespoon of chutney on the bread.
     • Add 2 slices of cooked bacon.
     • Sprinkle a generous amount of grated gouda or cheddar cheese.
   • Mushroom and Mozzarella:
     • Add a layer of grated mozzarella cheese.
     • Spread an even layer of sautéed mushrooms.
     • Add fresh basil leaves if desired.
     • Top with another layer of mozzarella cheese.
4. Close the Sandwiches:
   • Place another slice of bread on top of the filling, buttered side up.
5. Prepare the Braai:
   • Heat your braai to medium-high heat. You can also use a grill pan or an indoor grill if a braai is not available.
6. Grill the Braai Broodjies:
   • Place the assembled sandwiches on the braai or grill pan.
   • Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the sandwiches from the grill and let them cool slightly.
   • Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts.
• Weight Down the Sandwiches: Use a grill press or another heavy object to press down on the sandwiches while grilling for even toasting and melting.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Add ingredients like avocado, jalapeños, or different types of cheese to customize your braai broodjies.

Enjoy your delicious braai broodjies with friends and family, and savor the flavors of this beloved South African treat!