For the past two months, Guinness Original has been on a search for SA's favourite braaimaster, visiting various shisa nyamas across Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu Natal. On 9 December, the two best braaiers from each province had the chance to compete in the Guinness Original braaimaster competition 2011, for the winning title of SA's favourite braaimaster and a cheque worth R10 000.
Despite the rain, the braaiers got to work, each trying to outdo their components with their secret spices and marinades, while Motlatsi Mafatshe, MC, and DJ Soul T entertained the crowd. Celebrity chefs, Citrum Khumalo and Daniel Nxumalo from the SA Chefs Association, headed up the judging panel, which looked at the competitors' technique, originality, taste and the tenderness of their meat.
After stiff competition and a round of tasting, Jan Masaka Noko from Abogolova Chicken and Car Wash in Mahwelereng, Limpopo, was named this year's SA favourite braaimaster. 'I am so happy to have won,' exclaimed Noko. "My customers always praise my braaiing, so I knew I stood a good chance of winning. Now, with the prize money, I will be able to improve my premises to make the shisa nyama experience even better for them. I will also make sure that all my employees become skilled braaiers so they are also able to compete in the braaimaster competition. I am thankful to Guinness for this competition because now everyone can know who the best braaier is!'
In second place was Maloti 'Sox' Sebidi, from Maloti Food and Refreshments in Alexander, Gauteng. 'I am ecstatic to be the runner up because I never thought I would make it this far. At first, when the judges came to my shisa nyama, I didn't take them seriously, but was humbled when I became a finalist. I hope that this competition brings in more business and I can't wait to hang up my certificate so that my customers can see that I am a professional braaier," he said excitedly.
And in third place was Soweto's own, Patrick Nahlalela, from Ntombi's Braai Corner. 'Although I am a bit disappointed to not win, I am happy that Guinness has offered me the opportunity to demonstrate my skills," he said. 'I hope that Guinness makes this an annual competition because I believe all braaiers deserve a chance like this.'
This initiative was part of the launch of Guinness Original in SA. 'Most would agree that braaied or roasted meat tastes better than boiled meat and in the same way, roasted barley tastes better than boiled barley. While most beers boil their barley, Guinness Original made one change and roasted its barley for a crisp, bold taste. Guinness wanted to 'toast the roast' by exploring and celebrating SA's braai culture,' Said Melanie Woest, Guinness Original marketing manager.
