Braaibroodjies Recipe: The Ultimate South African Grilled Cheese Sandwich

These sandwiches are typically made with white bread, cheddar cheese, sliced tomato, onion, and chutney, layered together and grilled in a grid over the braai. The result? A crispy, golden crust with a warm, melty filling that bursts with sweet, savoury and smoky flavours.

While simple to make, the secret to the perfect braaibroodjie lies in the balance of textures and flavours. The sweet chutney offsets the sharp cheese, while the juicy tomato and onion add freshness and bite. Grilling it slowly over medium coals allows the bread to crisp without burning and gives the sandwich a light smoky aroma.

Braaibroodjies are wonderfully customisable too. Add bacon, swap cheeses, or use different breads – the possibilities are endless. Whether served as a starter, side or main, these humble sandwiches are a firm favourite around South African firesides.

Let’s dive into how to make the perfect braaibroodjie!

Ingredients for Braaibroodjies

• 8 slices white or brown bread
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced into rings
• 4 tablespoons chutney (e.g. Mrs Ball’s)
• Soft butter, for spreading
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional add-ins:

• Cooked bacon strips
• Sliced avocado
• Fresh herbs (like basil or thyme)

Directions to Make Braaibroodjies

1. Butter one side of each slice of bread. These will be the outsides of your sandwich.
2. Lay four slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Spread a layer of chutney on each slice.
3. Top with grated cheese, tomato slices, onion rings, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Add any extras like bacon or herbs if using.
5. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
6. Place the sandwiches in a braai grid (sandwich clamp) and secure them gently so the filling stays in place.
7. Braai the sandwiches over medium coals, turning often, until golden brown and the cheese has melted – about 5–7 minutes per side.
8. Remove from the heat, let them rest for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

How to Prepare

Start by preparing your braai so the coals are medium-hot – not too fierce, as you want to toast the sandwiches slowly. Slice your tomatoes and onions thinly and grate the cheese. Soft butter spreads more easily, so let it sit at room temperature for a bit before using.

Butter one side of each bread slice. Spread chutney on the inside of four slices, then layer with cheese, tomato, onion and season well. Add any optional ingredients, then top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.

Place the sandwiches in a braai grid or sandwich clamp. This tool makes flipping easier and keeps everything in place. Grill the sandwiches slowly over indirect heat, flipping every few minutes to ensure an even golden toast and fully melted cheese. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Once crisp and golden, remove from the braai, let rest briefly, then slice and serve while hot and gooey.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Braai time: 10–15 minutes
• Total time: 20–25 minutes

Servings

Makes 4 sandwiches (serves 2–4 depending on appetite)

ALSO CHECK OUT: The best braai salads and side recipes

FAQs for Braaibroodjies

Can I make braaibroodjies without a braai?

Yes, use a sandwich press, panini maker, or grill pan on the hob. The smoky flavour will be missing, but they’ll still taste great.

What is the best bread to use?

Thick-cut white bread is traditional, but brown bread or sourdough works well. Avoid very soft loaves that may fall apart on the braai.

Can I make braaibroodjies ahead of time?

You can assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge, but only grill just before serving to keep them crispy.

Is chutney essential?

It’s highly recommended for that sweet-savoury contrast, but you can use mustard or even mayonnaise if preferred.

Can I freeze braaibroodjies?

It’s not ideal. They’re best eaten fresh. However, you can freeze the filling mix (cheese, onion, tomato) and assemble fresh sandwiches when needed.

Conclusion

Braaibroodjies are more than just grilled cheese sandwiches—they’re a nostalgic part of South African braai culture. Crispy, cheesy, and full of smoky flavour, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a weekend braai or just want a comforting light meal, this classic dish always hits the spot.

The beauty of braaibroodjies lies in their simplicity and versatility. You can stick to the traditional cheese, tomato, onion and chutney combo or experiment with bold extras like bacon, herbs, or different types of cheese.

Grilled over open coals, they get a wonderful char and toasted crunch that elevates them beyond a regular sandwich. Pair them with a cold drink, a crackling fire, and good company, and you’ve got the perfect taste of South Africa.

So next time you light the fire, don’t forget the braaibroodjies – they might just steal the show.