The History Of The Boerewors Sausage

Where did boerewors come from?

Boerewors sausages are one of South Africa’s favourite meaty snacks! The South African boerewors sausage originated in Nambia, which is located in South Africa. The name ‘boerewors’ comes from a mix of Afrikaans/Dutch words, ‘boer’ which translates to ‘farmer’ and ‘worst’ that translates to ‘sausage’. 

What makes boerewors sausages unique?

Far from your traditional sausage, South African boerewors must contain at least 90% meat and always contain beef. Despite needing to contain beef, there are a variety of boerewors that are made and can be purchased from Susman’s Biltong, including beef boerewors, pork boerewors, chicken boerewors and game boerewors! The additional 10% of the boerewors sausage is made up of spices and other ingredients. The rule of producing boerewors is that no more than 30% of its meat content can be fat. 

How are South African boerewors sausages made?

Traditionally boerewors sausages were first made with minced beef, combined with pork and lamb, and then flavoured with a range of 5 key spices! These spices are coriander seed, black pepper, allspice, cloves and nutmeg. Boerewors are preserved with salt and vinegar and packed into sausage casings in a spiral shape. Whilst variations of the boerewors sausage now exist, the original boerewors sausage recipe is still loved by many, particularly South African nationals.

How are boerewors cooked?

Boerewors are traditionally cooked under a grill in a barbeque-like technique that is called braai. Unlike traditional sausages, boerewors are not pierced while they are cooked as this would cause them to lose moisture. In South Africa, these are commonly served up as a ‘’boerie’’ which is an alternative to the well-loved hot dog! 

Are boerewors only available in South Africa?

No! These delicious meaty snacks are available to buy right here in the UK from Susman’s Best Beef Biltong LTD. 

We also offer boerewors delivery internationally to a large range of countries! We stock a wide variety of best boerewors, including our traditional beer boerewors recipe, thin boerewors for snacking, cheese and garlic boerewors for an extra tasty treat, chicken boerewors, game boerewors, pork boerewors and peri-peri boerewors for a kick of spice. Buy boerewors here!