A relatively new version of the barbecue, the kettle braai was first introduced in 1951 and variations on the original design have since been widely adopted by manufacturers all around the world. Today it remains one of the most popular forms of griller available. In its simplest form, the device consists of a lid, a grid on which the food is placed, a second grid to support the charcoal and a lower vessel with legs and a series of vents to control the temperature of the fire.

Modern versions of the kettle braai are often powered by liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and are thus a lot easier to clean but a great many South Africans still prefer the distinctive flavour that can only be achieved when their meat is grilled over hot coals. These versatile outdoor grillers come in a variety of sizes with the smaller models being ideal for use where space may be limited. In addition, the portability of the small units means that it’s a simple matter to pack them into the family car for picnics.

Cadac offers kettle braais both for charcoal and gas grilling has even developed a hybrid model that successfully combines the benefit of both. Wheels make it a simple matter to move these units from place to place and the tripod design means that you can be certain that they will always remain stable and safe even on those less even surfaces.

All Cadac grillers are supported by a wide range of useful accessories that serve to extend their cooking possibilities considerably and the company’s various kettle braais are certainly no exception.

A Griller with Many Benefits

When compared with the traditional open style of barbecue, it is the lid that leads to most of the advantages associated with the closed type of griller. For a start, the act of confining the heat allows it to build up and to be reflected by the lid, which, in turn, results in a more even cooking process as well as much shorter cooking times.

Among the other benefits of kettle braais, is one that the purists will probably insist is the most important of all. With the lid closed, the food is now exposed to the smoke that, in turn, imparts the unique flavour that is just so distinctive of our legendary South African outdoor lifestyle. If, however, smoky food is not really your scene then, of course, you can still grill your steak and chops with the lid off if you really want to.

Another feature of the kettle braai that many will find of benefit is the way it can used to cook larger joints. A whole chicken or duck, a beef or lamb roast or even a kingklip, will cook perfectly with the lid in place. Once you have adjusted the vents to provide just enough heat these should need very little attention until you’re ready to eat. Foil wrap some mielies or vegies to complete the meal and, in no time, you and your family can be dining like royalty whether in the garden or the bush.

Cadac supplies top quality equipment for both patio dwellers and campers. Whether you prefer gas, charcoal or the best of both, there’s a kettle braai that’s perfect for you.

Camping equipment is as much a part of life in South Africa as pot roast and biltong. The sunshine and fresh air act as magnets that regularly draw people from their offices and armchairs into the alternative world of outdoor-living and fun. For some, that may simply mean enjoying an alfresco meal around the family swimming pool, while to those who are a little more adventurous, it could involve a great trek into the bushveld, albeit in an RUV rather than an ox-wagon.

The range of camping equipment that is available today has grown tremendously since the time of 2-man bivouacs, groundsheets, paraffin stoves and assorted billy cans. While these are still to be found on the shelves, they have since been joined by a collection of far more sophisticated products that are allowing their users to enjoy all the pleasures of the great outdoors while still retaining the benefits of cooking and other facilities that are a good deal closer to the customary comforts of home.

Today’s camping equipment features items such as comfortable seating, lamps, cooler bags and even gas-fired refrigerators. Getting back to nature is one thing but warm beer is more than any red-blooded South African camper could be expected to endure. It gets cold in the bush some nights too, and for these, occasions, the manufacturers have come up with a range of portable gas heaters or the more robust lantern-style heaters that are just perfect for use in the garden.

For all gas-operated domestic and camping equipment, the name of Cadac has been a trusted brand in South Africa for more than 60 years. Its iconic blue cylinders are a part of the country’s lifestyle and as common a sight in the gardens of Gauteng as Bougainvillea, Strelitzia and Agapanthus.

The Undisputed Leaders in Braai Products

Rump steak, lamb chops, skilpadjies boerewors; who hasn’t found that each of these delicacies becomes even more of a treat when prepared, in the open, on a charcoal or gas barbecue? Furthermore, with a quality unit from the Cadac camping equipment range, the task becomes simpler and quicker and the finished meal, even more succulent.

Among the many braais in the extensive Cadac catalogue are the patio range, the charcoal range, the chef range and the camping and adventure ranges. While many tend to prefer the cleanliness of cooking with gas, there are still plenty who swear by charcoal and there are compact units of both types that are just perfect for the game park or wilderness trail.

Perhaps the most versatile piece of camping equipment from this company is its “Leisure Chef”. The fully-portable unit comes with a range of interchangeable tops that allows it to handle just about anything you may wish to cook. With non-stick surfaces, cleaning up is a simple matter even with the limited facilities that are often encountered at campsites. A piezoelectric lighter means that you won’t be fumbling for matches or eating cold food if your Bic disposable is ready for disposal.

It is convenient to own cooking equipment that uses Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) as cylinders are refillable and there are service facilities everywhere. The huge range of accessories is the cherry on top that has made Cadac a household name in camping equipment.

A gas barbeque is great way to get the things started with all your family friends over for the evening. As South Africans we like to have everyone over during big sports events and special occasions where the braai meat gets covered in marinade and shoved into empty space that’s available amidst everything that is piled into the fridge.

Potato salads, bean salads, biltong salads, garlic bread and fresh crispy rolls are always a common site on any table at such occasions and there is always plenty good company to go around. It’s also not uncommon to see how rival supporters always tend to come out of the woodworks during extremely tense games.

How About Doing Some Cooking on a Gas Barbeque

Ideally you want to be able to cook quickly when people get hungry and when you are using coal or wood, you often end up having to spend time getting the fire ready. You also have to time the fire so that the food gets cooked as everyone starts getting hungry.

If you need to whip up a few appetisers during half time, you can do it without worrying about the fire being ready. Then everyone has something to snack on while they talk about the game at half time. The whole idea of a using gas in South Africa is that you have the convenience of being able to cook quickly.

There are Plenty Braai Products Using Gas in South Africa

Many South Africans still prefer to cook there meat over wood and coal fires because they prefer the taste, but it can get frustrating when you have to wait until the fire is ready. Until then, people tend to drink a lot more and the party tends to get a bit rowdy. At least if you feed them at regular intervals you can manage the sobriety levels and have a relatively peaceful evening.

If you plan to do cook a variety of meals you can add on extra pieces that allow you to cook full chickens on the side of the braai while you have the steaks and chops going on the grill. If you are in the mood for something a little bigger, you can buy a rotisserie big enough to handle a leg of lamb or an eisbein for example.

Specialised accessories that help catch all the juices and oils that run off the meat. Depending on how you collect it, you might be able to use that later on in gravy or a basting. Otherwise it’s just a great way to get rid of all those excess fats to leave your meat a whole lot leaner and healthier for you.

You can cook anything from seafood paella to a full continental breakfast on them with the right attachments. If you really feel like spoiling your kids you can even make them pizza all the way out in the bush and they won’t find anything cooler than that.

If you get it mobile, you can take a piece of home wherever you go when you take your gas barbeque with you on your next holiday.

The science of grilling and art of braaiing is a staple for any family household. Firing up that grill on a Sunday afternoon will sear many a memory in the brain of any man, woman or child of lazy days and sweet marinated smells. At the heart of it is the braai – almost like an extra member of the family. Shining in the sun, it gets all the glory for a job well done. But what about the old braai/barbeque accessory?

Braai/Barbeque Equipment: What’s Out There?

It’s a common misconception that the barbequing evolution ends when you buy your gas braai. Oh, no there is so much more good stuff still to come. The gas braai is only the base – by adding the right barbeque accessory you can unlock a whole new world of barbeque potential.

It’s important to purchase a good brand name when it comes to a gas barbeque. Therefore, you know you’ll have a wide barbeque accessory range and barbeque equipment when you need it. To illustrate the point we’re going to look at the various accessories from Cadac. Having been in the gas barbeque industry for over 60 years, you can rest assured that accessories, like the Chef Range Accessories, will be of high quality and durability. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer:

1. The Rotisserie – The rotisserie is a barbeque accessory you cannot do without if you’re a lover of that fine bird, the chicken. Part of the Meridian accessories, this piece of elegant barbeque equipment is chrome plated and ideal to slow spin a plump chicken until golden perfection. It’s got a motor powered by 2 D-size batteries and encased in stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning. The rotisserie opens up a whole new world to cooking poultry.

2. Paella Pan – The Paella Pan is part of the Chef Range Accessories and will add a Spanish flavour to your outdoor cooking. Made of thick aluminium and 47cm in size this is perfect for cooking paella, breakfasts, omelettes and even pancakes. Its size makes it easy to store and take with on holidays or camping trips. Add a little spice to your experimentation with this barbeque accessory and get mouths watering.

3. Dome Lid – Nowadays you get gas barbeque equipment that completes with its charcoal cousins. The dome lid is one of the Chef Range Accessories that is compatible with a Cadac Chef Range. It’s perfect for slow grilling meat and locking in moisture. It will even give you a bit of a smoky flavour. It has an added feature as it hooks onto the side of the barbeque and acts as a windshield.

There is plenty of other barbeque equipment in Cadac’s large range (Chef Range Accessories, Meridian Accessories, Kettle accessories and many more). Local dealers will unlock a whole new world of accessories and devices to enhance your weekend barbeque experience. Next time you walk into a store remember the braai/barbeque accessory. Overlooking it might just cost you your crown and title of BBQ King!

Charcoal Braai vs. Gas Barbecue: The Fiery Debate

Tongs and wire brushes have been raised in battle. Aprons have been sullied in debate. Marinades have been splashed in frustration. Since man has been able to slap a slab of meat down on a grid the debate has raged on: charcoal braai vs. gas barbecue.

Charcoal Braai vs. Gas Barbecue: Weighing Up the Contenders

It’s a tough one when deciding which one is better, charcoal or gas. However, there are so many categories to compare them in that it would take months, years even, to come to a conclusion. Therefore, we’ve narrowed it to the most important areas when deciding the outcome of charcoal braai vs. gas barbecue.

1. Taste – Meat always tastes better when barbecued outside, but you can’t beat the smoky taste of a searing steak over red hot coals. A gas barbecue comes close, but you lose the smoky element and it does not give you the same flavour when it comes to smoking with wood chips. There’s a certain nostalgia about eating meat off o hot, charcoal barbecue that can’t be beat. Edge: charcoal

 

2. Convenience – When you’re looking for an appliance that is convenient, you have to go gas. Gas barbecues are easy to move and set up. No messy wood or, just push a button and you are ready to go. No more stoking the fire and getting a tan from the blaze and face full of smoke. And the best part is, even if you make a spontaneous decision to barbecue, rain or shine, the gas solution will be your choice. Edge: gas

 

3. Temperature – Charcoal fires will burn hotter, that’s a fact, but gas gives you more control. With coals you often have to wait for the temperature to be just right. Gas allows you to control the temperature with a dial, allowing you to cook different meats at different speeds. Gas also gives you more control when cooking things other than meat. Grilled vegetables and bread come off delicious from a gas Barbecue. Edge: gas

 

4. Cost – Gas may be convenient, but it’s more expensive. Firstly the gas barbecue system is more costly than it’s simpler, charcoal brother. Secondly, the actual gas is an expense. Purchasing a tank and getting it filled regularly will work out more per year than buying bundles of wood/charcoal to burn. Edge: charcoal

 

5. Cleaner – One of the downsides of a charcoal fire is that it’s messy and dirty. Charcoal stains and when you’re done you have to clean out the ash. A gas barbecue is cleaner on two fronts. Gas burns cleaner than the smoky charcoal and is more environmentally conscious. The second advantage is that it cleans easier. The cooking is more contained and grease wipes off the metal surface easily. And when all is done, it wheels away conveniently. Edge: gas

And The Winner Is: Gas Barbecue (3 to 2)

There you have it, when you enter into the next charcoal braai vs. gas barbecue debate you know which side has the edge. The argument has come close, but at the wire it’s better to go gas than settling for charcoal.

Style and Taste with a Build-in Charcoal BBQ Oven

Many South Africans prefer the comfort of home when entertaining family and friends. For these South Africans the braai is still one of the chosen ways to ensure that everyone enjoys a delicious meal and a day filled with fun and laughter. For many the installation of a build-in charcoal BBQ oven is the best way to get the most out of every opportunity for entertaining.

The build-in charcoal BBQ oven is available in a number of different styles and sizes to suit the requirements of each individual family and the space that they call home. The smaller sizes of build-in charcoal braais are suitable for installation on even a smaller patio, such as those found in townhouses. The larger sizes which have multiple cooking surfaces and other attachments are more suitable for larger homes.

Whatever your requirements as far as a build-in charcoal BBQ oven is, concerned reputable manufacturers will usually have a solution to your requirements. One of the best ways to choose which unit will suit you is to make use of the Internet.

Many of South Africa’s more reputable braai manufacturers have websites with all the information that you require in order to make an informed choice about which build-in charcoal BBQ oven would best suit your needs. A good starting point would be the Cadac website as this features pictures of the various products. As a bonus, this site also features recipes for you to try.

A build-in charcoal BBQ oven will usually have two or more height adjustable cooking grids which will make it a breeze to prepare two different types of food at the same time. If some of your party would prefer something from the ocean and others would prefer the traditional meat based braai then the heights of either of the grids can be adjusted to ensure that both parts of the meal reach the table at the same time.

In order to make the BBQ experience that much easier and less messy your build-in charcoal oven should also have removable charcoal bowls. This makes the preparation of the bed of coals much easier and will take much of the hassle out of the cleanup that should take place after each braai.

Always make an effort to empty and clean the charcoal bowls after the braai as this will make the next opportunity for entertaining that much less stressful. Although your build-in charcoal BBQ oven will usually be sheltered from the elements moisture will almost inevitably get into the bowl if used charcoal and ash are not cleaned out. This makes the cleaning process both messy and unpleasant.

In order to ensure that the build-in charcoal oven that you are purchasing will remain in tip top condition even though it is situated outside make sure that the body of the charcoal oven is coated to resist the effects of moisture and the periodic heating and cooling cycle. Those models that are porcelain coated on all sides offer the best value for money and the assurance that your built-in braai will be in pristine condition each time you entertain.

When you purchase your build-in charcoal BBQ oven ensure that other components such as the charcoal bowl are also coated. This makes cleaning easier and will also make these components more resistant to the effects of the detergents used in the washing of the bowls.

If you plan on purchasing a build-in charcoal BBQ oven always be on the lookout for models that feature a built in warmer tray. This is especially useful if you are going to be entertaining large groups as it allows vegetables and meat to remain warm while you put the finishing touches to the rest of the meal.

There have been many innovations that have transformed the task of outdoor cooking; however none has had so many far reaching consequences as the entry of gas braais with a BBQ gas burner as the source of heat used for cooking various types of foodstuffs.

There are many varieties of gas braais and each of these has a BBQ gas burner that enables the cook to select the heat setting required with a great degree of accuracy. Many of the larger models of BBQ gas appliances have multiple burners that can each be set individually so that it is now possible to cook a variety of different types of food at the same time even when they require different heat settings. This degree of control means that all the food gets to the table at the same time, contributing to the enjoyment of the meal.

The outdoor BBQ sets that have a burner which controls each of the many surfaces in the unit are especially useful for those people who wish to entertain large amounts of people or who entertain close family and friends that have special dietary requirements.

The individual gas burners can be used to prepare different foods, each separate from the other, so if you have a vegetarian coming for dinner you can easily prepare the food for the person without it being contaminated by meat or seafood.

The availability of a separate gas burner for each of the cooking processes also allows the chef to prepare many different foods that can make up a sumptuous meal, for instance breakfast. All the items required for a full breakfast can be individually prepared even though they need different cooking methods. For instance many of the gas BBQs are equipped with a flat griddle that is ideal for cooking fried eggs, or preparing piping hot pancakes. The ability to cook all these different parts of the meal can transform the breakfast experience.

A BBQ gas burner equipped gas braai is also usually equipped with a hinged lid which can make the cooking process almost ‘hands free’. Once the meat or other raw ingredients have been prepared with the appropriate spices and herbs or a marinade the food can be place on the cooking surface and the lid closed. Once the lid has been closed the BBQ gas oven then acts as a convection oven, circulating the heat evenly for a delicious end result.

A BBQ gas burner will also allow the cook to prepare different foods that require various temperatures due to the fact that some models are equipped with a set of grills that are set at different heights. These grill surfaces are hinged so that the food can easily be placed on each of levels. These raw ingredients will then receive greater or lesser amounts of heat during the cooking process so that meals consisting of chicken, seafood and meat will be possible, with each of the components of the meal being ready at the same time.

There are two types of outdoor cooking enthusiasts in South Africa. The first is the braai master who swears by the natural aroma and cooking possibilities offered by the traditional charcoal or wood fired braai. The second group is made up of people who want their entertainment opportunities to include food that is prepared easily, with a minimum of mess but still able to deliver that authentic outdoor braai taste that so many South Africans have grown up with. The latter have turned to a patio gas BBQ to fulfil their outdoor cooking requirements.

A portable outdoor gas BBQ, or braai if you prefer, is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the fresh air and still be able to produce scrumptious meals. What’s more is that these patio braais are extremely easy to operate and can be used by even the novice chef. A simple twist of the burner control mechanism is all that is required to start the cooking process.

The advantage of the patio gas BBQ as opposed to the traditional charcoal fired BBQ is that the temperature can be set at exactly the level required to cook a variety of foods to perfection. This control means that there is no more guesswork involved in achieving that perfect cooking temperature. It also features multiple burners which can be set independently so that a variety of different foods that require different temperature settings can be cooked at the same time.

One of the other advantages of having a patio gas BBQ is that the units are easily moved from one area to another. This also allows you to keep up with the suns movements as you are preparing the food and will ensure that you continue to enjoy the sunshine no matter when you decide to start the cooking process.

Enjoying Outside Braais

The weather in South Africademands that anyone getting ready to entertain friends and family consider hosting a braai. Outside braais have been a focal point of entertaining inSouth Africa for generations and are today made even easier due to the large choice that the entertainer has when choosing which braai is right for their needs.

Today those wishing to enjoy the ambiance of outside braais can make use of either a charcoal braai or one that is powered by gas. Each of these outside braais has both their fans and their detractors.

Many people prefer the ‘traditional’ charcoal braai as they maintain that the authentic braai taste can only be accomplished by either a wood or charcoal powered braai. Others, however, prefer the convenience and temperature control that comes part and parcel with owning a gas braai.

For those who prefer the cooking process to be as hassle free as possible there are variants of both the traditional charcoal outside braais and gas braais that reduce the amount of time that needs to be spent turning and preparing the meat while it is on the fire. A patio gas BBQ and a kettle BBQ both come standard with lids that can be lowered during the cooking process. This allows air to circulate around the food being prepared and reduces the amount of fine tuning that is usually required by the chef in order to produce a sumptuous meal.

Fire up Your Braai Experience with the Right Charcoal Kettle Accessories

If you are one of the many people who have swapped that old charcoal braai for the charcoal kettle version, then you’ll want to further enhance your cooking experience with the help of some quality accessories. The varieties are many and they have been carefully designed to enhance the cooking experience by making it both easier and less time consuming.

By purchasing a charcoal kettle braai you will have already taken your first step towards hassle-free braaing. Plus, with the latest accessories you’re going to be able to produce meals that are fit for all, from a prince to a pauper.

There are many different types of charcoal kettle accessories, some of which makes it possible to cook foods on the kettle braai that wasn’t possible only a few years ago. One such is the pizza stone, which will bring a taste ofItalyto the kettle braai experience. By placing the pizza stone over the charcoal that has achieved the perfect heat, mouth-watering pizza creations are as simple as choosing your favourite ingredients.

Other accessories for use with a charcoal kettle include the ever popular heat resistant gloves as well as various types of forks and tongs. When purchasing these it is best to select products that are manufactured from stainless steel as they will last for years given that they are correctly cared for.

A Stainless Steel Cooking Grid

A stainless steel cooking grid is perfect for getting the most out of your charcoal kettle; this accessory is usually supplied with the kettle when purchased. Over the years the heat produced during the cooking process and the rapid heating and cooling cycle will cause damage to even the most robust cooking grid, fortunately replacement grids are produced by the kettle braai manufacturers and these can usually be purchased from the same outlet where you purchased the charcoal kettle.

On order to ensure that your cooking grid gives many years of pleasure always ensure that it is properly cleaned after the cooking has been completed. A mild household detergent is perfect for this job. For more stubborn particulate matter a wire brush, such as a grill scrubber can be used to ensure that the grid is both attractive and hygienic to use.

A High Quality BBQ Grill

The charcoal kettle can be fitted with a variety of accessories including a high quality BBQ grill. These useful accessories are supplied with two halves that are held together by a hinge, allowing the grill to be opened for the insertion of food. Foods such as boerewors or fish are popular choices when using the BBQ grill. Once the grill has been secured it can be repeatedly turned to ensure the even cooking of both sides of the food, without any danger of the meat or fish being prepared falling onto the coals.

As is the case with cooking grids, stainless steel charcoal kettle accessories like the BBQ grill should be cleaned once the cooking process has been completed in order to ensure that it remains in good condition.

If you live in South Africaor are visiting the country for any length of time, chances are that you’re going to be enjoying a braai at some point or another. Many of the occasions, where a braai is the choice for food preparation, will see a top quality stainless steel braai wheeled out; much to the delight of both the cook and those who will be enjoying the meal.

If you’re in the market for a stainless steel braai, take note that there are a number of buying guidelines that should be followed to ensure that the stainless steel braai will give you years of faithful service. When you’re looking at different makes and models, always ensure that the unit you are considering to purchase is manufactured by a company that has a reputation for top quality of their braais. Where possible, stick to brands such as Cadac who have built a reputation for the supply of a wide variety of different types of braais and accessories.

When considering a purchase, look closely at the stainless steel braai and the various components that are used at the joints of the wheels and the braai body. These should be manufactured from stainless steel as well. Many varieties of braais have aluminium components which are not as strong as stainless steel and also not as weather resistant.

Make sure that the entire braai (with the exception of the wheels) is manufactured using stainless steel. This material can resist corrosion and with proper care will give many years of service. Stainless steel construction is especially important when purchasing a braai for use on the coast as salt air can corrode even the most well manufactured braai in a very short time.

To ensure that your braai remains in good condition it should be stored somewhere cool and dry when it is not in use. A stainless steel braai that is in use at a coastal home should not be left outdoors when not in use, but should rather be brought inside and taken out when needed. To ensure that corrosion damage is kept to a minimum, many people who live on the coast apply a coating of oil based lubricant (available as a spray-on application) to the surface of the stainless steel braai. If you choose to do this, avoid the cooking surface as the application of industrial grade oil can affect the taste of food prepared on the braai.