Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage that has gained popularity worldwide, including in Qatar. This savoury sausage is made from a blend of ground beef, and spices and is a staple at braais (South African barbecues) and family gatherings. This blog post will cover everything about Boerewors, including its history, how it's made, and where to find it in Qatar.History of Boerewors
The origins of Boerewors can be traced back to the Dutch settlers who arrived in South Africa in the 17th century. These settlers brought with them a variety of meat dishes, including sausages. Over time, the sausage evolved to include local ingredients and spices and became known as Boerewors, which means "farmer's sausage" in Afrikaans.
Boerewors is so beloved in South Africa that it has even been recognised as a national heritage food by the South African government. It's a popular item at braais, social gatherings where friends and family come together to grill meats, including Boerewors, over an open flame.
How Boerewors is Made
Boerewors is made from ground beef, and spices. The specific blend of spices varies depending on the region and the personal preferences of the cook. Some common herbs used in Boerewors include coriander, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. The meat and spices are mixed and stuffed into natural casings, typically made from sheep intestines.
One unique aspect of Boerewors is that they must contain at least 90% meat and no more than 30% fat. The South African government enforces this to ensure that Boerewors is high quality.
Where to Find Boerewors in Qatar
Fortunately for those living in Qatar, Boerewors is becoming increasingly available at restaurants and grocery stores. Here are a few places where you can find Boerewors in Qatar.
Gastronomic Living
This food and beverage company features South African meat and foods you can enjoy from its restaurant or online delivery. Boerewors is well-loved in Qatar. For this reason, you can find excellent quality Broewors delivered right to your doorstep.
Braai Shack
This restaurant in Doha specialises in South African cuisine, including Boerewors. They also offer a variety of sides and sauces to complement the sausage.
Spinneys
This grocery store chain in Qatar carries various Boerewors brands, including Chakalaka and Nkosi's.
Souq Waqif
This traditional market in Doha has several vendors selling South African products, including Boerewors.
How to Cook Boerewors
Boerewors can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, pan-frying, or baking. The most traditional way to cook Boerewors is over an open flame at a braai, but it can also be cooked indoors using a grill pan or in the oven.
Grilling Boerewors
To grill Boerewors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, occasionally turning, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Frying Boerewors
To pan-fry Boerewors, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for 10-15 minutes, occasionally turning, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Health Benefits of Boerewors
As mentioned earlier, Boerewors is a relatively healthy meat option due to its high protein and low-fat content. It's also a good source of iron and vitamin B12.
However, it's important to note that Boerewors can be high in sodium, so it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Regional Variations of Boerewors
While the essential ingredients of Boerewors are the same across South Africa, there are regional variations in the types of spices used. For example, Boerewors from the Cape region may include more cinnamon and cardamom, while Boerewors from Johannesburg may be spicier with chilli flakes.
These regional differences make for a diverse and flavorful sausage that can be enjoyed in many ways.
Boerewors Recipes to Try at Home
While Boerewors is delicious, many recipes incorporate this sausage into larger dishes. Some popular Boerewors recipes include Boerewors rolls (a hot dog), Boerewors potjie (a slow-cooked stew), and Boerewors burgers.
Trying out these recipes at home can be a fun and tasty way to experience the flavours of Boerewors in a new way.
Cultural Significance of Boerewors in South Africa
Boerewors is more than just a tasty sausage - it also symbolises South African culture and heritage. As mentioned earlier, the South African government has recognised Boerewors as a national heritage food.
Boerewors is often enjoyed at social gatherings like braais, a cornerstone of South African social culture. These gatherings allow friends and family to come together, share food and stories, and enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, Boerewors is a unique and delicious sausage with a rich cultural history. Whether you're a seasoned Boerewors fan or trying it for the first time, there are many ways to enjoy this beloved South African staple.
Pairing with Drinks
In Qatar, the meal is usually paired with some drinks. So when the people eat Boerewors, they just paired it with some drinks depending on the season. This country has a lot of famous Arabic drinks. These drinks form part of Qatar's tradition. One of the most common drinks in Qatar is the Arabian coffee. It is usually served on occasion and on any season. Coffee in Qatar is an important symbol. Aside from coffee, there are many drinks the country boasts. There is the Limonana, a savoury lemonade, Laban, a homemade energy drink, Karak tea, and Rumman, a tangy pomegranate drink to name some.
Seasons These Drinks are Usually Enjoyed
As we have said, coffee is the drink for all seasons in Qatar. But some drinks are usually enjoyed in a specific season. For example, Tamar Hindi is a perfect drink in summer. This drink is popular in Qatar during summer, and of course, Ramada. Limonana is also a favourite drink during summer. Together with Tamar, Laban is also served during Ramada.
Summary
Boerewors is a delicious and flavorful sausage that has become a beloved South African staple. Fortunately, those living in Qatar can enjoy this tasty sausage at local restaurants and grocery stores. Whether grilling it up at a braai or cooking it indoors, Boerewors is a dish sure to please. We hope this guide has helped introduce you to Boerewors and given you everything you need about this beloved sausage.One of the great things about Boerewors is its versatility. It can be enjoyed independently or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with various side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw, and grilled vegetables. And don't forget the condiments - Boerewors is often served with mustard, chutney, or spicy tomato relish.
In addition to its delicious flavour, Boerewors is a relatively healthy meat option. As mentioned earlier, it must contain at least 90% meat and no more than 30% fat. This means that Boerewors is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
In conclusion, Boerewors is a tasty and versatile sausage that has become a beloved South African staple. Whether grilling it up at a braai or cooking it indoors, Boerewors is a dish sure to please. And with its increasing availability in Qatar, it's easier than ever to enjoy this delicious sausage.
