We’ve got exciting news! We’ve launched our first plant-based Boerie, just in time for National Braai Day. Boerie on the braai is such an important South African past time, we knew that this new sausage would have to hold its own in the face of some very strong scrutiny. But we were inspired by the extraordinary responses we got for our Big Fry Burger. We also know that many more South Africans are open to exploring plant-based meat alternatives and that in order to inspire more people, we have to innovate and offer alternatives that make the exploration easier (and just as delicious!).
Just like the Big Fry Burger, the plant-based Boerie looks, sizzles and tastes just like its meaty counterpart and is just as juicy. It is also very high in protein with a whopping 19G of plant protein per sausage, but it has none of the cholesterol found in meat. Like all Fry’s products, it is non-GM, 100% plant-based and low in saturated fat.
The Big Fry plant-based Boerie has a similar texture to the Big Fry Burger. It’s meaty in flavour and has a mouth-feel of ground beef in a sausage casing. The Big Fry plant-based Boerie is also sold uncooked and has quite different cooking instructions to all Fry’s pre-cooked products. It’s important for consumers to note the cooking instructions which can be found on the back of the packaging. I hope that we can show South Africans all over the country that it is not impossible to braai without meat!
If you’re looking for some healthy snacks before the braai, we have also just launched our new snacking range – a selection of 100% plant-based, non-GM and incredibly versatile products that make healthy snacking possible. The range includes: Plant-Based Meatballs; Mini Chipolatas and gluten-free Rice Protein Chia Nuggets.
We made this range specifically for the busy parents out there looking for simple, healthy but yummy snacks for their kids. They’re a great source of protein which means your kids are getting enough healthy protein to support their growth and sustain them for longer.
These meatballs, chipolatas and nuggets are fantastic for lunchboxes, picnics or even to dip into some hummus or guacamole around a braai. They can be used for dinner (Spaghetti and Meatballs anyone?) or for brunch (who doesn’t love a smokey chipolata?). Beyond being very versatile, the snacking range is also really, really delicious. We know this because they have been approved by our fiercest taste-testers, the Fry’s grandchildren.
The products are 100% plant-based, made with a blend of non-GM plant proteins and various herbs and spices. We have always been passionate about using the best ingredients possible and ensuring that what we put in our products are free from nasties. We only make products that we are happy to eat as a family.
So let’s squash the idea that the only burgers and sausages that belong on a braai are the meaty kind. In fact, it’s entirely possible to celebrate Heritage Day with a totally meat-free braai – without compromising on taste or texture! There will be vibrant veggies, sizzling skewers, and juicy plant-based burgers.
Uniting around a fire symbolises the heritage of many South Africans. While ingredients may differ, one thing never changes – when South Africans have something to celebrate, we light fires and prepare feasts.
If you’re looking for ways to cut down on meat but, it’s BRAAI DAY and you’re worried that you’ll end up only eating red pepper and onion skewers, a grilled mielie or a baked potato, rest assured that there are so many plant-based braai-ready options that will satisfy the meatiest of cravings.
Want to host a plant-based braai? Here are some tips to get you going:
- Marinade marinade marinade! Dress up your burgers in a basting sauce before you throw them on the grill. It’ll take your patties to the next level of smokey, BBQ deliciousness.
- Plants make great appetizers! Impress your friends with an array of veggies, crackers and hummus, mini mushroom pizzas with vegan cheese, falafel balls and fruit.
- Keep it fresh. Prepare a fresh salad with lots of crunchy veggies and hints of fruit like raisins, mango and strawberries. Don’t forget that delicious dressing too!
- Think about veganising side dishes. Use vegan mayonnaise in the good ole faithful potato salad – your friends won’t know the difference.
- We know bread is crucial for burger staking. Some vegan options include rye bread, ciabatta rolls, baguettes, tortillas or wraps, sourdough, burger buns and hot dog rolls (without the egg wash glaze) and sandwich breads. Always read the ingredients list first though just to be safe.
- Dessert anyone? Since you’ve already got the grill going why not grill some fruit? You can also make chocolate mousse with avocado and cacao powder. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!
- Leave paper out of it. Pay a visit to a thrift or secondhand store and buy a few mismatched reusable dinner and dessert plates. The crazier the patterns, the better! They’re more fun, a great conversation piece, sturdier than paper, and you’re not contributing to the landfill.
- Have fun! Friends and family are much more likely to take plant-based eating seriously when they see that leaving meat off the grill still means you can have a great time and eat to your heart’s content!