Every country in the world has a specialty when it comes to food and dining, South Africa however is so culturally diverse that we can offer an extensive range when it comes to culinary experiences.
Every culture in our beautiful country will have one or more specific dishes that they regard as “Traditional”. As a nation, we borrow these traditions and recipes from each other, so meal times would often lead to gloriously colorful plates of food. Meal times are also when South Africans get together – this is relevant to all cultures. We sit, we talk, we eat, we drink and generally we regard meal times as “Family Time”
At Vuyani this is exactly what we want to offer our guests, the most authentic and traditional dishes, enjoyed together – as a family.
On crisp, clear evenings we often serve dinner in the “Boma” – this is an enclosed circular area away from the main building and any unnatural light. A fire is lit in the centre and the remainder of the area lit by the use of lanterns and candles which gives it a magical ambience. The natural light provides the perfect opportunity to gaze up at the breath taking African Sky.
Dinner is served buffet style and this is also when we introduce our guests to most South African’s favorite past time: which is having a “Braai”.
A “Braai” is a barbeque where, traditionally meat is cooked on an open wood fire, South Africans however, will always “Braai” more than one type of meat – of which “Boerewors” will almost always be present. “Boerewors” is a traditional South African Spicy Sausage; the distinct taste of dried coriander is what makes this sausage authentic.
Accompaniments to a Braai would normally be “Pap and Sheba”. “Pap” is finely ground maize which is then cooked in water – it is similar to Polenta. On the Braai you will also find Corn on the Cob, Black Mushrooms, Beef Kebabs, Chicken or a juicy Rump Steak. Your typical South African household would commonly also add Potato Salad, Garden Salad and Garlic Bread.
“Braai Time” is typical family time where everyone would gather around the fire for a relaxing evening of good food and drink.
In the bush “Braai Time” is also significant with Rangers sharing their experiences of living and working in Africa, and this is also where almost every African Culture would share legends and myths, told and retold from generation to generation. The most memorable tales are often told around a camp fire.
“Braai” and “Boma” are as South African as they come and one can now fully see the significance of the “Rainbow Nation”
Sitting around a fire in the African Bush can be truly hypnotic. The sizzling of “Boerewors” on the hot coals, the orange glow of the fire and a Jackal calling in the distance…
*Justine Ferreira