If you are on the lookout for a delicious, nostalgic treat that sings of sunny South African barbecues, the South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe is your new best friend. This humble yet utterly satisfying sandwich is layered with melty Kerrygold Mature Cheddar cheese, ripe tomatoes, and just the right touch of red onion, all enclosed in golden, buttery bread toasted to perfection in a jaffle iron. Every bite bursts with smoky, savory joy that feels like a warm hug from the coals of a braai, making it an irresistible snack or light meal to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, balancing creamy richness, tangy freshness, and a crispy, buttery finish. Gathering these few essentials is all you need to bring a taste of South Africa to your kitchen.
- 2 slices of pre-sliced soft bread: Soft bread to crisp up beautifully in the jaffle iron, providing the perfect base.
- 1.5 Tbsp Kerrygold salted butter, softened: Butter lends a golden crust and adds mouthwatering richness.
- 30g Kerrygold Mature Cheddar cheese: Sharp, creamy cheddar that melts into luscious gooeyness inside the sandwich.
- 2 slices of ripe tomato, drained on kitchen paper: Juicy tomatoes offer fresh, sweet contrast without sogginess.
- A few thinly cut red onion slices: Slightly pungent onion slices provide a subtle crunch and depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors alive and perfectly balanced.
How to Make South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Start by spreading the softened Kerrygold salted butter evenly on the outside of each bread slice. This step is crucial because it ensures that your jaffle will toast to a wonderful golden crisp, creating a delightful contrast to the gooey center.
Step 2: Layer the Filling
On one slice of bread, carefully layer the thinly sliced red onions first, followed by the mature cheddar cheese and then the ripe tomato slices. Make sure the tomatoes are well drained on kitchen paper to avoid soggy bread. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously to enhance every layer’s flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Place the second slice of bread, butter-side out, on top, forming a sandwich with the filling securely inside. This simple assembly is where the magic begins as all flavors join together.
Step 4: Prepare the Jaffle Iron
Spray your preheated jaffle iron with a light coat of non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the sandwich inside and press gently. Trim any excess bread hanging over the edges using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors for a neat finish.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Set the jaffle iron over low coals or on your smallest gas burner at low heat. Cook the sandwich for a few minutes on each side, carefully turning and checking frequently to ensure a perfectly browned crust without burning. Once golden and the cheese has melted inside, your South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Braaibroodjie jaffles to the next level, a simple garnish of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of crunchy chives adds an inviting burst of color and a fresh note that complements the richness inside.
Side Dishes
This treat pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, pickled vegetables, or even a tangy chutney for a little extra zing. These sides help cut through the richness and create a balanced, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the jaffles into fun shapes using cookie cutters before serving, or stack them up in layers for an impressive platter at your next gathering. Wrapping them in wax paper and packing them for picnics also showcases their crowd-pleasing charm perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which can be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the jaffle fresh, though for best texture, reheating is recommended.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked jaffles individually wrapped in cling film and foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, cook them straight from frozen in a preheated jaffle iron, extending the cooking time slightly.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen jaffles in a toaster oven or under a grill to restore the crispy outside and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
What is a jaffle iron?
A jaffle iron is a hinged, clamshell-style sandwich press often used over heat sources like campfires or stovetops. It seals the sandwich edges, creating a crisp, sealed pocket that helps the filling melt perfectly inside.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Kerrygold Mature Cheddar is traditional and offers a sharp, creamy flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy cheese blend to customize your Braaibroodjie jaffles.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The flavors are simple yet tasty, and melting cheese with tomatoes tends to be a hit with children. Just slice into manageable pieces and watch them enjoy this warm treat.
What if I don’t have a jaffle iron?
No worries! You can make this sandwich in a regular sandwich toaster, panini press, or even cook it in a frying pan with a weighted lid. Just aim for that golden, buttery crunch and melted cheese inside.
Can I add meat or other fillings?
Yes, the South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe is versatile. Adding grilled boerewors slices, bacon, or even a fried egg can make it heartier and tailor it to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
The South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that never fails to brighten up your day. With a handful of quality ingredients and a cozy jaffle iron, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and perfectly crisp sandwich ready to share or savor any time. Trust me, once you try making these at home, they’ll become a staple comfort snack that brings a little South African sunshine to your kitchen.
Print
South African Braaibroodjie Jaffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 1.5 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: South African
Description
A classic South African Braaibroodjie Jaffle is a delicious toasted sandwich perfect for grilling over low coals or stovetop heat. Featuring soft bread, Kerrygold salted butter, mature cheddar cheese, ripe tomato, and red onion, this savory sandwich is seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked in a jaffle iron until golden brown and crispy.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 2 slices of pre-sliced soft bread
- 1.5 Tbsp Kerrygold salted butter, softened
Fillings
- 30g Kerrygold Mature Cheddar cheese
- 2 slices of ripe tomato, drained on kitchen paper
- A few thinly cut red onion slices
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread the softened Kerrygold salted butter evenly on the outside surfaces of each slice of bread to ensure a golden, crisp finish when cooked.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer the thinly sliced red onions, followed by the mature cheddar cheese, then top with the drained tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Complete the sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out, to enclose the fillings.
- Heat the jaffle iron: Preheat your jaffle iron and spray with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trim any excess bread hanging over the edges for even cooking.
- Cook the jaffle: Set the jaffle iron over low coals or on the smallest gas burner set to low heat. Cook for several minutes on each side, turning as needed, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, checking frequently to avoid burning.
Notes
- Make sure the tomato slices are well-drained to prevent soggy bread.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the heat source and thickness of your jaffle iron.
- You can double or triple the recipe easily for more servings.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Substitute Kerrygold cheese with any mature cheddar if unavailable.
