Budget-Friendly Outdoor Cooking and Braaiing: A Delicious Guide

Budget-friendly outdoor cooking and braaiing can be a delightful way to gather friends and family without breaking the bank. If you don't want to invite everyone over for a traditional South African "Bring & Braai", with a bit of creativity, you can make the most of affordable meats and delicious side dishes that elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Affordable Meats: 

Chicken: The whole chicken is often cheaper than breasts, chicken thighs and drumsticks and are juicy and packed with flavor. Marinate them in your favorite spices or a simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon for that extra zing before grilling. Chicken wings also offer great options.

Pork Chops: Look for bone-in pork chops, as they tend to be more affordable and stay moist on the grill. A simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, and mustard can transform these into a tasty treat.

Sausages: Grab a pack of your favorite sausages, whether it’s boerewors or a more budget-friendly option. They cook quickly and are perfect for grilling. Pair them with homemade chutneys or mustards for added flavor or do "Boerie rolls" - always a crowd pleaser!

Marinated Beef Skewers: Use cheaper cuts of beef like flank or sirloin and cut them into cubes to make skewers. Marinate them in a zesty mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs before skewering and grilling for a tasty treat.

Ground (Minced) Meat Burgers: Minced beef or mixed ground meat makes for budget-friendly burger patties. Throw in some breadcrumbs and herbs to stretch the meat further while adding flavor.

Tri-tip or Chuck Steak: A triangular cut or front quarter cuts of beef (like chuck) is often less expensive than other steaks. Marinate it in your favorite seasonings and grill to perfection.

Fish: Can be found at a lower price point than other meats. Try marinating them in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavor.

Venison: If available, venison can be a budget-friendly and flavorful option. Marinate it in a red wine reduction for a rich, savory taste.

Tasty Side Dishes:

Instead of mindlessly making side dishes, plan out one starch and one veggie/ salad dish. Fresh bread or rolls are also a favorite and is filling and delicious.

Grilled Vegetables: Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and corn are often budget-friendly and can be thrown directly on the grill. Toss them with olive oil and seasoning for a simple and delicious side.

Potato Salad: Potatoes are inexpensive and versatile. Boil and toss them with a dressing of mayo, mustard, chopped onions, and herbs for a delightful side dish that can be prepped in advance.

Coleslaw: Buy a head of cabbage and shred it for a crunchy, refreshing side. Toss it with a simple dressing of vinegar, sugar, and oil for a classic coleslaw that pairs well with grilled meats.

Rice or Quinoa Salad: Cook up a batch of rice or quinoa and add diced vegetables, a sprinkle of herbs, and a splash of dressing. It’s filling, and you can make it ahead of time.

Corn on the Cob (Braaid Mielies): Often available at reasonable prices, corn on the cob is a summer staple. Grill or boil it and finish with butter and a pinch of salt for a classic South African side that everyone loves.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are affordable and can be roasted with olive oil and spices for a delicious side dish.

Grilled Pineapple: A sweet and tangy side dish that pairs well with grilled meats. Simply brush with olive oil and grill until caramelized.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Outdoor Cooking:

Buy in Bulk: Purchasing meats and sides in bulk can help reduce costs.

Hunt for Specials Offers: There is always something on a special or offered to clear, and you will be paying significantly less than usual.

Bring & Braai: Ask your guests to each bring their own meat and/or a side dish.

Shop Seasonal: Buying produce in season can help save money.

Plan Ahead: Preparing sides and marinades in advance can help reduce food waste and save time.

Use Affordable Braaiing Options: Choose affordable wood or charcoal options for braaiing.

Limit snacks: Too many snacks will fill your guests anyway. You can do with a small snack, a chip and dip, and that’s it. No need to keep eating till you’re ready for the actual meal.

Invest in Braaiing Essentials: Invest in a durable braai grid for even cooking and use long-handled tongs and spatulas for safe and easy food handling.

Final Thoughts:

Outdoor cooking and braaiing don’t have to be lavish or expensive. With these affordable meats and simple side dishes, you can create an impressive and satisfying feast that everyone will enjoy. Embrace seasonal ingredients, hunt for sales, and get creative with marinades and spices. The result? A memorable outdoor gathering that keeps your wallet happy. So, fire up that grill and start cooking!