Ultimate toasted sandwich – easy. Cheesy. And super tasty!

A Braai Broodjie is one of the simplest yet most beloved additions to any South African braai. Basically a toasted sandwich toasted on a grill. Translated as “barbecue sandwich – it is crisp on the outside, warm on the inside, and filled with flavours that remind many people of family gatherings and long summer afternoons. Although it looks like an ordinary toasted sandwich, the way it is prepared over open flames gives it a smoky depth that cannot be recreated indoors. Each bite is comforting, familiar, and deeply satisfying.

Traditionally, a braai broodjie is layered with cheese, tomato, and onion. These ingredients melt and soften as the sandwich toasts, creating a rich, gooey centre. The bread becomes gently charred, picking up flavour from the grill while still staying soft enough to hold its shape. Because it cooks slowly over the coals, the aroma drifts through the air and brings everyone closer to the fire. It is a simple dish, yet it captures the spirit of South African outdoor cooking beautifully.

Over time, many variations have emerged. Some people add chutney for sweetness, while others include herbs, garlic butter, or even sliced meats. A few prefer their broodjies thin and crisp, and others enjoy them thick and generously filled. This flexibility makes the braai broodjie easy to adapt to different tastes and occasions, while still keeping the tradition at its core.

At The Healthy Springbok, the focus stays on freshness and balanced flavour. Wholegrain bread, lighter spreads, and plenty of vegetables can create a wholesome version without losing the satisfying melt of the original. It is a small twist that keeps the dish nourishing while preserving its signature comfort.

From the gentle sizzle on the grid to the deliciously melted centre, Braai Broodjies remain a must-have at any braai. They are simple, warm, and always a crowd-pleasing addition to the table.

Braai Broodjie

Classic Braai Broodjie is a South African favourite made with sliced tomato, onion, and cheese layered between buttered bread and toasted over hot coals.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 16 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: South African

Calories: 440

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 slices white or brown bread
• 2-3 large tomatoes thinly sliced
• 1 large onion thinly sliced into rings
• 2-3 cups grated cheddar or gouda cheese
• Soft butter for spreading
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Extras:

• 1 tsp Chutney Any will do, but Mrs. Ball’s (South African Chutney) is most authentic
• dash Fresh oregano or thyme
• sprinkle Mozzarella blend
• dash Smoked paprika

Equipment

• 1 Butter Knife
• 1 Knife to cut onions and tomato
• 1 Grater if cheese isn't already grated
• 1 Chopping board / Bread board / Large plate to carry braai broodjies

Method

 

Build the sandwich:

1. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice.
2. Add a generous layer of grated cheese.
3. Arrange tomato slices evenly over the cheese.
4. Add onion rings (as much or as little as you prefer).
5. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
6. Finish with another layer of cheese — it helps seal everything together.

Braai the sandwich:

1. Regulate the braai to medium-low heat.
2. Place the sandwiches in a braai grid and close it gently.
3. Braai over indirect heat for 4–6 minutes per side.
4. Turn the grid often to avoid burning — bread browns quickly.
5. Remove when the bread is golden and crisp, and the cheese is fully melted.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving):
 Calories: 440 | Protein: 20g | Fat: 25g | Carbs: 38g | Fibre: 3g