FIRE STARTER

Whether you swear by wood or charcoal, the basics still apply

If you’re using a kettle braai such as a Weber, remove the lid and open the vents. Break a few firelighters into small pieces and place inside the braai.

If you’re using charcoal, build a pyramid on top of the firelighters. If you’re using wood, start the fire with smaller pieces of kindling.

Light the firelighters and, once the fire is burning, add more charcoal or wood. The coals are ready when they’ve turned grey. If you’re using wood, you want glowing coals, not leaping flames.

To turn your kettle braai into a smoker, try the snake method. Build a double row of briquettes leaning against each other like dominoes in a semi-circle on one side of the braai. Light the charcoal on one end and let it burn like a fuse. It'll stay at a constant temperature and is great for smoking meat such as brisket, ribs, pork or whole chickens.