Bree Braai Bites

The Bree Braai Bites are a delightful fusion of traditional South African flavors and modern culinary techniques. This dish reflects the vibrant culture and rich history of South Africa's culinary scene. The word "braai" is a South African term for barbecue, a social event where food is grilled over an open flame, accompanied by good company and stories. Bree Braai Bites encapsulate this essence, offering a bite-sized explosion of flavors perfect for casual gatherings or family meals.

History of Bree Braai Bites

The tradition of braai originated centuries ago with the indigenous peoples of Southern Africa who would grill game meat over open coals. As South Africa became a melting pot of cultures, so too did its cuisine, integrating influences from Dutch, Indian, and Malay settlers. Bree Braai Bites were born out of this melding, combining the creamy richness of bree cheese, a staple from the French influence, with spices and techniques like grilling, which are deeply rooted in South African cooking practices.

Ingredients

• Bree - 250g
• Puff pastry - 1 sheet
• Red onion - 1, finely sliced
• Brown sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Balsamic vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - To taste
• Pepper - To taste
• Egg - 1, beaten

Preparation

Begin by prepping your ingredients. Carefully slice the red onion and set aside. Slice the bree into small, square pieces that are easy to handle. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

Preparing the Onion Compote

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced red onion and sauté until they become translucent.
3. Sprinkle in the brown sugar and cook until the onions start to caramelize.
4. Add balsamic vinegar and let it reduce slightly, creating a rich onion compote.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.

Assembling the Bree Braai Bites

1. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 3-inch squares.
3. Place a piece of bree cheese in the center of each square.
4. Add a teaspoon of cooled onion compote on top of the bree.
5. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing lightly.
6. Arrange the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush each bite with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Cooking Process

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy.
3. If the bree begins to ooze out, it indicates that the bites are ready.
4. Carefully remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

For best results, serve warm but not piping hot to fully enjoy the melted bree contrasting with the sweet and tangy onion compote.

Enjoying Your Bree Braai Bites

Bree Braai Bites are best enjoyed as an appetizer or snack at a braai event or a casual get-together. They pair perfectly with a glass of South African wine or a light, refreshing salad. The flaky puff pastry complements the smooth, rich bree, while the onion compote adds a sweet and tangy twist, ensuring a well-rounded bite each time. To keep true to the braai spirit, consider cooking them over a covered grill using indirect heat if an oven isn't available, adapting the process to keep that unique smoky aroma. Remember, setting a cooking timer ensures perfect baking timing so you don't miss out on that exquisite texture!