As many of you know, I have a lot to say on the braaing topic and most of that is not very good. Today I will say nothing other than good things. A friend of ours from Berlin and her South African boyfriend invited us to a braai. This braai was one of the nicest I have been to in a very long time. Apart from the weather being balmy (the last for weeks to come), the company being relaxed and congenial and bubbles flowing; the food was also exceptional.
Our German friend made a starter to die for, of roasted aubergines with a cumin yogurt sauce topped with pomegranate seeds. The aubergine flesh was cut criss-cross and seasoned with salt, pepper, fresh thyme, sesame seeds and olive oil then roasted in the oven until soft. The yogurt was Greek yogurt, seasoned with a little garlic, salt, pepper and cumin. We ate the dish warm (not hot), just like that and it was sublime. Gorgeous to look at, subtle flavors and the perfect start our meal.
The braai meat and mielies (sweetcorn) came to the table soon after accompanied by sesame potatoes which had been halved rubbed in olive oil and a little salt, then the under side pressed in sesame seeds until crusted and placed face down on a baking sheet. This was then baked until tender and slightly crisping. The sesame seeds don't burn because they are face down on the baking sheet. This was served with a tzatziki made with grated cucumber and Greek yogurt seasoned with garlic, salt and pepper.
The combination was matchless and I look forward to including them into my repertoire soon! Thank you so much Julia and Lebo.
even sans the meat, the vegetarians really enjoyed this meal!
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