There’s something undeniably thrilling about lighting a fire. The flicker of the flames, that sweet hiss as the wood catches, and the steady rise of smoke. It’s primal, powerful, and, if you do it right, legendary.
Whether you’re deep in the bush or just kicking back at home with a cold one, fire is the heart of a great gathering. But a great fire doesn’t just happen - it’s built.
Here are our tips on how to make a fire like a true Donkey.
Step 1: Wise Wood Choices
A fire is only as good as its fuel. That’s why we always go with Stompies wood - the wood that gives you control. For the ultimate burn, we use Kameeldoring wood with kindling. This combo burns hot, lasts long, and won’t send as much smoke chasing you around. However, if you'd like a full breakdown of the best wood to use for a braai, we've got you covered too.
Here's our complete guide to the best wood for a fire.
If you’re out in the wild, adapt like a true Donkey. Find dry wood and get the fire going with what you’ve got.
Stacking matters. Need a fast fire? Teepee style is your friend. Want a slow, steady burn? Log cabin it up. A few firelighters, and you’re set.
Step 2: To Blower or To Paddle
The Blower and The Paddle aren’t just there to look cool; they’re your fire-taming weapons.
- The Blower: For when your fire is half-asleep and needs a wake-up call, this is your go-to. No more kneeling in the dirt, puffing your lungs out - just aim and blow. It’s like CPR for coals, minus the mouth-to-mouth.
- The Paddle: When the flames need a little extra drama, The Paddle is your best friend. A few well-placed wafts, and that fire’s alive and kicking. Plus, let’s be honest, you look way cooler wielding a paddle than waving a pizza box.
In the end, The Blower = precision and The Paddle = power.
Step 3: Controlling the Heat
Lighting a fire is one thing - controlling it is where the magic happens.
With the Donkey Long Tong, you can move logs, shuffle coals, and create heat zones like a pro:
- Hot Zone – For that perfect steak sear.
- Medium Zone – Where everything cooks to juicy perfection.
- Resting Zone – So your meat chills without turning into charcoal. (Also, the perfect spot for a great braai broodjie.)
But remember, keep extra logs nearby, feed the fire as needed, and enjoy its magic for as long as you can.
Step 4: When the Feast is Done
The fire’s job isn’t over when the meat’s off the grill. You either put it to rest properly or stoke it up for more stories, laughs, and another round of drinks. A true Braai master never just walks away.
The Last Spark: Our Parting Flames of Wisdom
Making a fire isn’t just about cooking; it’s about respecting the flames and letting it tell its story. With Donkey Long Tong’s handcrafted gear and Stompies wood, you’re not just another guy flipping meat. You’re a fire whisperer. A meat magician. A true Braai master.
Braai More. Braai Longer. Braai Like a Donkey.
