Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 10–12 min
Serves: 4–6
Best Wood: Kameeldoring hout or Rooikrans hout – both burn hot and slow, adding a mild smoky flavour that complements liver beautifully.
What you will need
- A big bag of @Braai droee Kameeldoring braaihout
- 1.2 kg beef liver, sliced ±1 cm thick
- 375 ml buttermilk (1 ½ cups)
- 2 Tbsp coconut oil
- 4 tsp coarse salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 medium onions, sliced into strips
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
- 125 ml cake flour (½ cup)
- 60 g butter (4 Tbsp)
- 1 tsp paprika for extra flavour
- Fresh lemon wedges (to serve)
Lets braai the liver
“If you can braai liver just right, you’re not just cooking — you’re unlocking flavour that only fire can bring!” – Nico Loubser
Marinate your beef liver
Soak the liver in buttermilk for 30–60 minutes in the fridge. This helps tenderise and mellow the strong flavour. Then drain and pat the slices dry with kitchen paper.
Season and Coat
Mix the salt, pepper and paprika. Rub it into the liver slices. Lightly dredge in flour and shake off any excess.
Prep the Fire
Start your fire with Kameeldoring or Rooikrans. Wait until you have a medium bed of coals — no big flames, just steady heat.
Sauté the Onions (Use a Braai Pan or Skillet on the Fire)
Place a heavy cast iron pan or flat-bottomed potjie on the grid over the coals. Add coconut oil and cook the onions until soft and golden, stirring now and then. Add garlic and let it fry until fragrant.
Braai the Liver
In the same pan, add the butter and place the liver pieces gently into the pan (or directly onto a well-oiled grid if you’re going for a crispier texture). Braai for 3–4 minutes per side — until browned on the outside but still tender inside. Avoid overcooking!
Apply your final touch
Toss the liver back in with the onions and let it mingle for one more minute. Serve hot off the fire, finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Now, brag about your braai’ed livers!
FAQ’s
Got questions?
You’re not alone — here are some we get often, and we’re ready with answers!
Why do we use coconut oil?
When it comes to high-heat cooking, not all oils are created equal. Here’s why coconut oil is the go-to winner — and why olive, sunflower, and palm oil don’t make the cut:
- Olive oil (especially extra virgin) degrades quickly under high heat.
- Sunflower oil oxidises fast, releasing harmful free radicals.
- Palm oil is often highly processed and may carry environmental and ethical concerns.
For sautéing, frying, roasting or braaiing, coconut oil is the heat-proof hero — stable, healthy, and full of benefits.
Why do we use fresh ingredients?
In a world of convenience and pre-packed everything, it’s easy to forget the power of fresh ingredients. But ask any home cook, chef, or health expert — freshness isn’t just a trend, it’s a game-changer.
Using fresh produce, herbs, and meats does more than elevate the taste of a dish. It boosts nutrition, ensuring you get maximum vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — many of which degrade quickly in processed or long-shelf-life foods.
Fresh ingredients are also free from hidden preservatives, additives, and excess sodium, making your meals naturally cleaner and healthier. Plus, their vibrant colours and natural textures add that extra wow to your plate.
And let’s be honest — nothing smells more inviting than onions, garlic, and herbs sizzling together, straight from the chopping board.
Is beef liver healthy?
Beef liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Just a small serving packs a powerful punch of:
- Iron – especially heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body
- Vitamin A – essential for vision, immunity, and skin health
- Vitamin B12 – crucial for red blood cell formation and brain function
- Folate (B9) – important for DNA synthesis and repair
- Protein – supports muscle growth and repair
Great for Preventing Deficiencies
People with iron-deficiency anaemia, fatigue, or B12 deficiency often benefit from incorporating liver into their diet.
Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
Unlike many processed foods, liver provides a lot of nutrients without added sugars or unhealthy fats.
