Cape Town’s beautiful landscapes and sunny blue summer skies make outdoor living a way of life.
And as a South African, we have little doubt that whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night with family, a braai is going to be your go-to for all occasions, even an indulgent dinner.
But in a city where wind can change your plans in minutes, many are switching from traditional charcoal to gas braais. If you too are considering making the switch, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about buying and using gas braais in Cape Town.
Why Use a Gas Braai?
The Cape’s unpredictable weather and environmental considerations make gas braais the perfect solution, especially for outdoor cooking where the summers can be so dry that cooking on an open wood fire just isn’t always a great idea.
This is why a gas braai could be the ideal appliance for you:
- Convenience
Gas braais heat up quickly, so there’s no need to wait for coals to get to the perfect temperature. With the simple flick of a switch, you’re ready to cook.
- Control
Gas braais give the braai master precise temperature control, making it easier to cook different types of meat and vegetables evenly without the worry of flare-ups or undercooked food.
- Environmentally friendly
Many Cape Town residents are increasingly conscious of sustainability, and you might be one of them. Gas braais tend to produce fewer emissions than wood or charcoal and you’ll also save water by avoiding the messy clean-up that comes with traditional braais.
- Wind Resistance
Anyone living in the Cape knows how the wind can ruin a good fire. With a gas braai, the wind will no longer your enemy, as gas burners aren’t easily affected.
What to Look for in a Gas Braai
Investing in a gas braai is all about making sure it suits your lifestyle and cooking preferences. Here are some important features to consider:
- Number of Burners
More burners mean more cooking space and the ability to create different temperature zones. If you regularly host large groups or like to cook several dishes at once, look for a model with at least three burners.
- Material Quality
Stainless steel models are durable and rust-resistant, which is particularly important with Cape Town’s coastal air. You don’t want a braai that will fall apart after a couple of seasons.
- Side Burners and Extras
Many gas braais come with extra features like side burners for cooking sauces or warming trays. If you enjoy preparing full meals outdoors, these extras can be quite useful.
- Portability or Built-In Models
If you live in a small apartment with a balcony or have a portable setup for camping weekends, a portable gas braai is ideal. For those with larger gardens or dedicated outdoor kitchens, a built-in gas braai is a fantastic option.
How to Maintain Your Gas Braai
Owning a gas braai in Cape Town means you need to keep it in top condition so it performs for years. These cleaning tips should come in handy:
- Clean it Regularly
Make sure to clean the grates and burners after every use to prevent grease build-up. Regular cleaning also improves the lifespan of your braai and reduces the risk of food tasting off due to leftover residue.
- Cover it Up
Cape Town’s salty sea air can be harsh, so always cover your gas braai when it’s not in use to protect it from the elements.
- Check for Gas Leaks
Before each use, inspect the gas lines for any potential leaks. You can do this by applying soapy water to the connections and watching for bubbles.
- Season the Grates
After cleaning, oil your grates to prevent rust and to maintain a non-stick surface for your food.
What to Cook on Your Gas Braai
Now that you have your gas braai set up, it’s time to get cooking! Gas braais are incredibly versatile, allowing you to prepare a range of dishes. Here are some Cape Town-inspired favourites:
- Cape Town’s love affair with snoek runs deep. Using a gas braai, you can easily cook this fish to perfection, getting that crispy skin without overcooking the delicate meat.
- South Africa’s iconic braai snack is just as easy to prepare on a gas braai. Quick and simple, the consistent heat will give you perfectly browned boerewors every time.
- With the growing trend of plant-based diets, gas braais are perfect for grilling up veggies like peppers, mushrooms, and butternut skewers.
- Gas braais allow you to control the temperature for the perfect medium-rare steak. Add a touch of garlic butter, and you have a restaurant-quality dish.
For Capetonians who cherish their outdoor living spaces and love good food, gas braais are a game-changer. They’re convenient, eco-friendly, and offer the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes with ease.
Plus, with Cape Town’s breathtaking scenery as your backdrop, why not make the most of every meal outdoors? Need more information? Contact Winelands Gas today and let us help you get set up with a new gas braai.
