What is the South African term for barbecue?

The South African term for barbecue is braai.

In South Africa, a braai can mean the cooking method, the grill or stand, and the social gathering built around an open fire. The word comes from Afrikaans braaivleis, meaning “grilled meat”; vleis is the Afrikaans word for meat. Although the term originated among Afrikaners, it is now widely used by South Africans across ethnic communities.

A braai is more than a direct translation of “barbecue.” Guests may bring meat, salads, and drinks, and everyone often gathers around the fire while food cooks. Common foods include boerewors sausage, sosaties, lamb chops, steaks, chicken, and pork. Coastal braais may also feature fish, prawns, or rock lobster.

Wood was traditionally important, but charcoal, briquettes, and gas braais are also common today. A “bring-and-braai” is a gathering where guests bring their own food and drinks. South Africa’s National Braai Day is celebrated on September 24, the country’s Heritage Day, linking the cooking tradition with national cultural identity.