If you are human, you can braai. Cooking meat over a fire is something that defines our evolution as a species. The act of using fire to cook food even defines our social structure as mammals – thanks to the lucky lightning strike eons ago, and the fact that there were some steaks handy. Anything tastes better if you hold it over a fire for a while. Sure, it may not improve the flavour of Brussels sprouts, but if you leave them on for long enough, it’s a good way to get rid of them. Take everything you think you know about cooking and forget it. Jean Nel is re-inventing the braai. It is about so much more than just steaks and boerewors; anything that can be eaten can be braaied. From salads to sides, meats to veg…you could even invite a vegetarian to a braai! In Braai the Beloved Country, Jean Nel shares his favourite braai recipes from 15 years of cooking, training and catering. The book contains the secrets of cooking everything from a perfect ‘tjoppie’ to breads and salads on that favourite South African cultural icon – the braai. Not only does he present a host of delicious and unexpected recipes; he goes beyond just cooking, covering everything you need to know about the braai including the tools you’ll need and their maintenance.