According to Royco, the South African festive season is synonymous with sunshine, swimming and, of course, braais. In place of the Northern Hemisphere’s traditional holiday favourites, it offers a round-up of festive recipes designed to bring bold flavour and effortless enjoyment to any gathering.

Tandoori chicken on the braai

Royco suggests trading in the turkey for tender, flavour-packed tandoori chicken pieces. The Royco Chicken Marinade, infused with a symphony of spices, creates a rich and aromatic basting ideal for outdoor cooking.

This recipe is well-suited to large family gatherings, as quantities can easily be doubled or tripled to create a generous centrepiece.

With guests bringing their own sides, the meal comes together with ease.

Link to recipe: Tandoori Chicken on the Braai

Roasted butternut and beetroot salad

For those tasked with ‘salad duty,’ Royco recommends the roasted butternut and beetroot salad, a nourishing, colourful side that transports well and brightens any festive table.

The toasted almonds and roasted vegetables evoke classic holiday flavours, while a sprinkle of dried cranberries adds a cheerful, seasonal touch.

Link to recipe: Roasted Butternut & Beetroot Salad

Sticky sesame spareribs

Royco proposes skipping the traditional roast gammon in favour of these sticky, succulent sesame spareribs. Ideal for holiday get-togethers, the ribs can be prepped and marinated in advance, then braaied to perfection in just 15 minutes once guests are ready to eat.

A garnish of sesame seeds and spring onions adds an elevated finish.

Royco recommends serving the ribs alongside a crunchy coleslaw and their Crushed and Crunchy Potatoes.

Link to recipe: Sticky Sesame Spareribs 

Classic potato bake

A festive feast would not be complete without potatoes, and Royco highlights its classic potato bake as a crowd-pleasing favourite.

Made using Royco Sour Cream and Chives Potato Bake, the dish delivers comforting flavour with minimal effort.

The brand notes that it can be prepared the night before, stored in the fridge, and simply baked an hour before serving, making it ideal for entertaining at scale.

Link to recipe: Classic Potato Bake