Maegan-Leigh JacobsStart braai season off right with a clean braai stand. Here’s how to do it:
There’s nothing like the smell of a braai drifting through the garden on a warm evening, but before you light that first fire of the season, take a moment to give your braai stand some attention.
A little cleaning and maintenance now will make every weekend braai smoother, tastier, and far more enjoyable.
Do a quick check-up
If your braai has been standing outside through the colder months, chances are it’s collected dust, ash, or even a few cobwebs. Start by giving it a good once-over. For charcoal stands, empty out leftover ash and make sure vents open and close easily.
If you’re using gas, remove the grates and drip trays to check that nothing is blocking the burner tubes and that the igniter is sparking properly.
Heat it up
Preheating your braai does more than just prepare it for cooking – it also helps burn off any residue. Fire up your charcoal with the lid closed and vents open, or turn your gas burners to high for about 10 minutes. Think of it as a quick sterilisation before the fun begins.
Scrub the grid
Once the heat has done its job, tackle the leftover bits on your cooking grid. A wire brush is a classic option, but if you’d rather avoid bristles, scrunch up some foil and use that instead. The goal is a smooth, clean surface that won’t hold onto old flavours.
Oil smartly
Here’s where braai experts differ: some suggest oiling the grid, others say oil the food. Both methods help prevent sticking, so choose whichever works for you. If you prefer oiling the grid, use a high-heat oil like canola and wipe it on with paper towel held in tongs. Alternatively, brush your meat or veggies lightly with oil before they go on the fire – this also helps lock in moisture.
After the braai
When the last chop has been flipped and the fire is dying down, give your grid another quick scrub. On charcoal stands, let the heat burn off stubborn bits, then remove ash once it’s cooled completely. Gas braais may need drip trays cleaned or replaced if they’re full.
Big clean once a year
A seasonal deep clean keeps everything in top condition. Wash the inside with warm soapy water (no abrasives), rinse thoroughly, and allow the sun to dry the parts before reassembling.
Gas braais can be re-lit on high for half an hour to burn off any residue. Charcoal models benefit from a full wash-down with a garden hose and drying in the open air.
With a clean braai stand ready to go, all that’s left is to invite friends, prep your favourite marinades, and enjoy the best of summer living in your garden.
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