The braai is as part of our country’s heritage as biltong, Castle Lager and Mrs Balls Chutney. It is therefore no surprise that South Africans have dubbed Heritage Day the annual Braai Day too.

What will you braai over the sizzling coals this year?

To get you inspired (and salivating) try this marinade recipe. It can be used on all types of meat, chicken and even vegetables.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Mrs Balls Chutney

1 teaspoon dried oregano (or mixed herbs)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, chutney, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the marinade over your meat in a resealable plastic bag or dish.
4. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, aim for 2-4 hours.

TIP: In the mood for chicken but worried about under or over cooking it? Pre-cook your chicken in the oven in the delicious marinade above instead. And then, finish it on the braai for a crispy, flavourful exterior.

Marinades make all the difference when it comes to adding that extra flavour and moisture to certain meats. On the other side of the coin, they are also the culprits that make a real mess of the grid.

But not to worry!

Cleaning Warehouse’s Gel Oven Cleaner has your back!

This non-corrosive gel cleaner makes mincemeat out of burnt-on food and sauce on ovens, grills, fryers and braai grids. It is also suitable for glass, enamel, stainless steel, aluminium and cast-iron surfaces.

It is ideal for cleaning braai grids because it effectively removes grease without corroding the metal.

Instructions:

• Spray the grid and leave overnight.
• Wipe it clean the next day with a non-scratch scourer sponge.

Happy Heritage Day!