Origin of Boerewors
Boerewors, meaning “farmer’s sausage” in Afrikaans, is a traditional South African sausage with roots tracing back to the early Dutch settlers in the 17th century. It is an essential dish in South African cuisine, often prepared during a braai (barbecue). The recipe is influenced by European sausages but adapted with unique South African spices, making it a staple in family gatherings and celebrations.
Category of Boerewors
Dish Type: Main Course
Subcategory: Non-Vegetarian, Spicy Food
Ingredients of Boerewors (Traditional South African Sausage) by flavorsofnations.com
Ingredient | 4 Servings | 6 Servings | 8 Servings | 10 Servings | Calories (Per Serving) | Vitamins & Minerals |
Beef (80% lean) | 500g | 750g | 1kg | 1.25kg | 250 kcal | Protein, Iron |
Pork (shoulder or belly) | 250g | 375g | 500g | 625g | 300 kcal | Protein, Healthy Fats |
Beef Fat | 100g | 150g | 200g | 250g | 450 kcal | Healthy Fats |
Coriander Seeds (toasted & ground) | 1 tbsp | 1.5 tbsp | 2 tbsp | 2.5 tbsp | 5 kcal | Antioxidants, Vitamin C |
Black Pepper (ground) | 1 tsp | 1.5 tsp | 2 tsp | 2.5 tsp | 3 kcal | Iron, Magnesium |
Nutmeg (ground) | 1/2 tsp | 3/4 tsp | 1 tsp | 1.25 tsp | 10 kcal | Manganese, Iron |
Cloves (ground) | 1/4 tsp | 1/3 tsp | 1/2 tsp | 3/4 tsp | 5 kcal | Antioxidants, Vitamin K |
Salt | 1 tsp | 1.5 tsp | 2 tsp | 2.5 tsp | 0 kcal | Sodium |
Vinegar (malt or red wine) | 2 tbsp | 3 tbsp | 4 tbsp | 5 tbsp | 10 kcal | Acetic Acid, Digestion Benefits |
Sausage Casing (natural or synthetic) | 2m | 3m | 4m | 5m | 0 kcal | Fiber (if using plant-based casings) |
Nutritional Information for Spices & Ingredients of Boerewors (Traditional South African Sausage)
Coriander Seeds: 5 kcal per tbsp, rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C.
Black Pepper: 3 kcal per tsp, a source of iron and magnesium.
Nutmeg: 10 kcal per tsp, contains manganese and iron.
Cloves: 5 kcal per tsp, known for its antibacterial properties.
Beef and Pork: High in protein, iron, and healthy fats.
Instructions of Boerewors:
- Prepare the Meat: Chop the beef, pork, and fat into small pieces. Keep them chilled to maintain texture.
- Grind the Meat: Using a coarse meat grinder, grind the beef and pork together.
- Prepare the Spice Mix: Toast and grind the coriander seeds, then mix with black pepper, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Season the Meat: Add the spice mix and vinegar to the ground meat and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Stuff the Sausage: Rinse the sausage casings in warm water, then carefully fill them with the meat mixture using a sausage stuffer.
- Twist into Links: Shape the boerewors into a continuous coil or individual sausages.
- Rest the Sausages: Let them sit in the fridge for 12-24 hours for the flavors to develop.
- Cook the Boerewors: Grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy with pap (maize porridge), chakalaka, or fresh bread rolls.

Doctor’s Advice about Boerewors by Flavorsofnations.com
Beneficial For:
- People looking for high-protein meals to support muscle growth.
- Individuals with iron deficiency as red meat is a good source of iron.
- Those who need healthy fats for energy and nutrient absorption.
Who Should Avoid It?
- People with high cholesterol should opt for leaner meat alternatives.
- Individuals with high blood pressure should reduce salt intake.
- Diabetics should eat in moderation due to fat content.
Conclusion
Boerewors is a rich, flavorful, and juicy sausage, perfect for grilling and social gatherings. It has a distinct smoky and spicy taste, making it a favorite at barbecues and festive occasions. Enjoy authentic South African flavors by exploring more recipes on flavorsofnations.com!