Category: Boma

10 Things to be Thankful for as Africans

Posted on by Lexi Hall

“I am an African not because I was born in Africa but because Africa was born in me.” – Kwame Nkrumah

The African continent holds a very special place in our hearts and how often do we take a few moments to appreciate what we have in our life? Today is the day to give thanks for all those things that make a difference in our daily lives and visiting Africa so incredible.

To those who have never been… we wish that you will visit in the not-too-distant future and that you will come to know and love this amazing place.

In the meantime & in the spirit of thanksgiving here are 10 things we (as African’s) are grateful for:

 

Our People

Special conversations, shared laughs and smiles are parts of every day in Africa. The warmth, humility and courage of its people are overwhelming and infectious!

Our Sunrises and Sunsets

Only the best and most beautiful you could ever imagine. The sky lights up with a thousand splendid colours and imprints on your memory forever.

Our Wildlife

The variety and quantity of wildlife that we share with the continent is sometimes unbelievable. It is an honour to experience these majestic creatures.

Our Food

Always prepared with the utmost care the taste sensations and culinary journeys we are exposed to on a daily basis are out of this world!

Our Culture

This colourful land is bursting with characters, cultures, religions and beliefs aplenty. There is so much to see, to learn and to understand.

Our Landscapes

From savannahs, to mountains, to forests, to beaches to deserts we have it all and it’s ever-changing and always takes your breath away.

The Weather

Summer in South Africa is glorious. It’s hot, it’s humid and the afternoon summer thunderstorms are the best.

Summer Fruit

Pineapples, watermelons, apricots, peaches. All of these juicy edibles make summer totally delicious. 

Our Freedom

Nowhere else will you experience space like in Africa. The middle of nowhere is a real place here and a feeling experienced often on this endless continent!

Braai Time

There’s nothing quite like a braai on a warm afternoon with a few beers and cocktails. 

From all of us at Iconic Africa, Happy Thanksgiving!

A South African Braai – Explained

Posted on by Lexi Hall

The 24th of September was Heritage Day! Last month saw locals celebrating their heritage, culture and diversity and this nation-building tool definitely involved scrumptious traditions such as a good old “lekker braai.”

If you’re heading to South Africa on safari this is definitely something to add to your bucket list. As South Africans, we find any opportunity and occasion to get together as friends and family and have a braai (also known as a barbecue.). This is a social time when we sit back, relax and indulge in some of the country’s meat cooked to perfection on a hot flame. 

What is a braai?

A traditional method of cooking/roasting marinated meat or chicken over a grid on a wood fire. 

Wherever you go on safari in South Africa there will definitely be an outdoor boma and a safari braai. The boma symbolises an outdoor retreat, where guests gather to socialise, find warmth, eat good food and promises a really great time for all!

Whether it’s a mobile lunch or a sunset dinner, your camp will lead you to the bush braai site where they will prepare on display your magnificent flame-grilled meal. Enjoy a drink while your meat gets cooked to your satisfaction in front of you and bask in the fire’s warmth as you wait. Sit back, relax and listen for passing wildlife or to the rangers unmatched stories of their experiences in the bush. 

With a picturesque sunset in front of you, a G&T in hand, the calls of the wild surrounding you and a delicious African feast in front of you, … need we say more – there’s no place you’d rather be. 

How to make your own braai

If you’re sitting at home and aren’t able to visit us just yet you can still have a braai of your own! Here’s how:

Decide if you want to make a wood or charcoal fire, or braai on a gas griller. This will determine the taste of your meat. 

If you decide on a wood braai, the more wood, the better. The type of wood you choose will determine how long it will burn and adding/using coal will add a nice flavour. 

Use firelighter in between the logs to get the fire started. Make sure the smaller pieces of wood are at the bottom and the larger pieces on top. 

When you have decided that your fire is not too hot and will last you long enough to cook all of the meat, place the first meat onto the grid. 

Sausage (Boerewors) can be added on full heat and will cook quickly and is the perfect starter for those hungry guests who have been waiting.

Chicken is more difficult to braai as it takes the longest to cook properly and less heat is needed. 

Once the chicken is halfway done you can add your chops. This way, all the meat will be done at the same time and everyone can eat together. 

Don’t forget the garlic bread, salads and baked beans make the perfect side dishes. 

We hope you are looking forward to your next safari braai.