The Spirit of the Plankie on Heritage Day
Few things capture the heart of South African braai culture like the plankie braai. More than just a meal, it’s a shared experience where friends and family gather around the fire, cook an abundant spread, and present it together on a large wooden board — the “plankie.” It’s rustic, generous, and made for #creatingmemories.
And there’s no better time to celebrate the plankie braai than on Heritage Day, South Africa’s national day of braaing, culture, and togetherness. Whether you call it Braai Day or Heritage Day, the tradition of fire and food brings us all closer.
At My Butchers Block, we know the board is just as important as the fire. The right plank not only carries the feast but also sets the tone for the celebration.
What Exactly Is a Plankie Braai?
A plankie braai is a shared, platter-style braai where the food is cooked over the coals and then served together on a large surface — the plankie. It’s usually a handcrafted wooden board designed for slicing, serving, and feasting communally.
Unlike a standard braai, where each guest might plate up separately, the plankie brings everyone to the same table. Juicy cuts of steak, wors, chicken, and lamb chops share space with roosterkoek, pap, chakalaka, and grilled vegetables. The result is a colorful, mouth-watering spread designed for sharing — the perfect way to honour Heritage Day.
The Heart of the Plankie: Choosing the Right Meat
A great plankie starts with great meat. Aim for a variety of textures and flavours so every guest has something they love.
-
Steak – Rump, sirloin, or ribeye are excellent for slicing. Season simply with salt and pepper.
-
Lamb chops – Braai until the fat crisps. Perfect finger food for the board.
-
Boerewors – A South African classic that brings familiarity to the plank.
-
Chicken thighs or wings – Marinate in garlic, lemon, or peri-peri for variety.
-
Sosaties – Pork, lamb, or chicken skewered with vegetables and basted with a tangy sauce.
👉 Pro tip: Take the meat out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking so it braais evenly.
Bringing Variety: Veggies and Sides on the Plank
A plankie braai isn’t just about meat — the sides and veggies make it truly memorable.
-
Grilled vegetables – Peppers, mushrooms, baby marrows, and corn on the cob.
-
Roosterkoek or garlic bread – Freshly baked and perfect for soaking up juices.
-
Pap and chakalaka – The traditional pairing that adds comfort and spice.
-
Potato salad or coleslaw – Creamy, fresh, and cooling against the smoky meats.
-
Tomato relish or salsa – Adds brightness and balance.
Arrange sides between the meats to create balance and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step: How to Braai for a Plankie
-
Build your fire – Use hardwood or quality charcoal for steady heat.
-
Cook in stages – Start with wors and chicken, then move to chops, and finish with steak.
-
Season smart – Coarse salt works wonders. Add marinades or rubs for depth.
-
Baste for flavour – Butter, garlic, chilli, and herbs brushed on as the meat cooks.
-
Rest your meat – Give steak and lamb a few minutes off the fire before slicing.
Assembling the Plankie: Presentation and Serving
This is where your My Butchers Block board comes alive.
-
Slice meats into strips – Easy to grab and share.
-
Mix and layer – Alternate meats, sides, and bread for colour and texture.
-
Use grooves wisely – Let juices collect without spilling.
-
Garnish – Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or chillies add flair.
The result is a board that looks as good as it tastes.
Drinks That Pair With a Plankie Braai
No feast is complete without drinks. Pair your spread with:
-
Beer – Crisp lagers and bold IPAs cut through the richness.
-
Red wine – Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinotage for steak and lamb.
-
White or rosé – Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin for chicken and fish.
-
Local spirits – Mix brandy with ginger ale or soda for a proudly SA pairing.
Hosting a Heritage Day Plankie Braai Party
A plankie braai is designed for groups, and Heritage Day is the perfect excuse to go big.
-
Portion planning – One large board feeds 6–8 people comfortably.
-
Multiple planks – For bigger gatherings, use two or more boards.
-
Create atmosphere – Music, fairy lights, and seating around the fire.
-
Make it social media worthy – A beautifully presented plank is a photo magnet on Braai Day.
Why the Right Board Matters
The plankie braai doesn’t work without the plank. A strong, well-crafted wooden board ensures your feast is practical and beautiful.
-
The Grand Daddy Block is perfect for carving steak.
-
The Shisanyama Braai Board is built for communal serving.
-
Or check out our Full Braai and Outdoor range and choose your own
- Don’t forget to care for your boards with our Wood Care Products to keep them looking their best.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Heritage Day With #creatingmemories
The plankie braai is more than a meal — it’s a tradition of togetherness. With the right meats, sides, and most importantly, the perfect wooden board, you can create a feast that your guests will talk about long after the fire burns out.
This Heritage Day, gather your family, light the fire, and celebrate South Africa’s favorite tradition: the braai. With My Butchers Block at your side, every plankie braai is about #creatingmemories.