Summer Braais Made Easy: Why LPG is Your Best Outdoor Cooking Solution

The Braai: A South African Culture Institution

In summer, the braai becomes a central feature of social life, with gatherings taking place in backyards, parks and beaches. It is a time for laughter, storytelling and celebrating life’s milestones, whether big or small. The inclusivity of braai culture is evident, as it welcomes all, regardless of background, uniting people around a shared love for food and togetherness.

With the growing popularity of efficient and environmentally friendly cooking methods, many South Africans are turning to liquid petroleum gas (LPG) as a versatile and convenient solution for their summer braais. But is it the better option? We explore the benefits of using LPG for outdoor cooking, pitting it against traditional grilling methods and offering tips for creating memorable summer gatherings that honour the spirit of the braai.

The Benefits of LPG for Outdoor Cooking

Efficiency: LPG grills heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, allowing for faster cooking times compared to traditional methods. This efficiency means less waiting around and more time enjoying your barbecue with family and friends. 
Clean Burning: LPG produces fewer emissions than charcoal or wood, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It burns cleaner, reducing the risk of unwanted soot and ash, keeping your cooking area cleaner and safer.  
Versatility: LPG grills come with various features, such as multiple burners and adjustable heat zones, allowing you to cook different foods simultaneously. You can grill, roast or even bake on an LPG grill, providing versatility for your summer cookouts. 
Flavour Enhancement: LPG provides a clean burn that allows the natural flavours of your food to shine through.  
Portability: Many LPG grills are designed for easy transportation, making them perfect for camping trips, beach outings or tailgating events. The convenience of a portable grill allows you to enjoy outdoor cooking anywhere. 
Convenience: The convenience of ordering gas online and having it delivered directly to your home, maintaining a steady supply becomes effortless.

Comparing LPG to Traditional Grilling Methods

When choosing the best cooking method for your summer braais, it’s important to compare LPG with other traditional grilling methods. Here’s how they stack up:

Feature	LPG Grilling	Charcoal/Coal	Wood	Electric Grills
Environmental Impact	Burns cleaner with fewer emissions	Produces smoke and carbon emissions	Significant smoke and carbon emissions	Minimal emissions
Cleanliness	Little soot, easy to clean	Creates ash and residue	Creates ash and residue	Generally cleaner
Flavour	Enhances natural flavours	Imparts smoky flavour, can be heavy	Strong smoky flavour, can overpower	Limited flavour enhancement
Ease of Use	Simple ignition, consistent heat	Requires time to ignite and stabilise	Requires skill to manage flame	Easy to use, but limited outdoor use
Cost-Effective-ness	Economical over time, refillable	Can be cheaper initially, but ongoing coal costs add up	Can be expensive and less consistent	Higher upfront costs, higher electricity fees. Subject to unscheduled power outages

Environmental Impact: LPG burns more cleanly compared to charcoal, coal or wood, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions. While charcoal is often seen as a more traditional choice for braais in South Africa, it can contribute significantly to air pollution.

Cleanliness: LPG produces little to no soot, making cleanup easier. In contrast, charcoal and wood leave behind ash and residue that can be messy and require additional effort to clean.

Cost-Effectiveness: While initial costs for an LPG grill may be higher, the ability to refill LPG canisters often makes it more economical in the long run compared to electricity which can be more expensive and to unscheduled power outages or continuously buying charcoal or wood. The convenience of quick cooking times can save you money on food spoilage from prolonged grilling.

Storage: LPG bottles come in different sizes offering several advantages for long-term storage compared to electricity and coal. They have a long shelf life and remain stable without degrading, making them ideal for extended use. LPG bottles are compact and space-efficient, easily transportable for outdoor events, unlike the bulkiness of coal or reliance on electric power sources. They require no complex infrastructure for storage and can be purchased in bulk, providing a cost-effective solution that allows users to avoid price fluctuations. Additionally, LPG is user-friendly, with minimal setup required, making it a convenient choice for spontaneous cooking and gatherings.

Setting Up Your LPG Grill for the Perfect Braai

Choose the Right Location: Set up your grill on a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials and under a shelter to protect it from the elements. 
Check Equipment: Ensure your LPG bottle is full and check for any leaks in the connections using a soapy water solution. Bubbles indicate a leak that needs to be addressed. 
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill for about 10 -15 minutes before cooking to ensure it reaches the desired temperature. 
Organise Your Workspace: Keep tools, ingredients and plates within easy reach. A well-organised setup will help you manage the cooking process more efficiently.

Safety Tips for Using LPG at Summer Cookouts

Read the Manual: Familiarise yourself with the specific instructions and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the LPG grill. 
Ventilation: Always use your LPG grill in a well-ventilated area to prevent gas accumulation and ensure safety. 
Watch for Gas Leaks: Regularly check connections and hoses for leaks. If you smell gas, turn off the grill immediately and seek assistance. Installing a gas detector in areas where gas is used can provide early warning of any leaks, ensuring peace of mind and the safety of your household while enjoying outdoor cooking. 
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Have a fire extinguisher rated for flammable liquids close by, just in case of emergencies. 
Supervise Children: Keep children and pets away from the grill while it’s in use to prevent accidents.

Lets Get Braaing: Popular Summer Braai Recipes Using LPG Grills

Grilled Veggie Skewers: Marinate a mix of your favourite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini and cherry tomatoes and grill them on skewers for a colourful and healthy dish. 
LPG BBQ Chicken: Coat chicken pieces in your choice of marinade and grill until perfectly cooked, serving them with a side of BBQ sauce for dipping. 
Smoky BBQ Ribs: Use the indirect grilling method to slow-cook tender ribs, infused with flavour from wood chips added to the grill. 
Grilled Fruit Salad: Grill slices of pineapple, peaches and watermelon for a deliciously sweet dessert. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

As summer brings the opportunity for outdoor gatherings, choosing LPG as your cooking solution ensures efficiency, flavour and fun. With the right setup, safety measures and delicious recipes, you can create memorable braai experiences that delight family and friends. The versatility and convenience of LPG make it the perfect choice for any South African braai.

Order your gas online with SimsGas

SimsGas makes online gas ordering a breeze, ensuring you’re ready for all your summer cooking and heating needs. Whether you’re preparing a delicious meal or keeping your spaces cool or cosy, gas offers efficiency, cost savings and reliability. With SimsGas, you can focus on enjoying the best of summer with family and friends while we take care of keeping you fuelled.

Order your LPG Gas online: https://simsgas.co.za/shop/
Phone: 0861 746 7427
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za

We will deliver to your home or business, so order today!
Johannesburg: 011 494 4232
Durban: 031 902 6533
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za