Nothing says South African heritage like the smell of smoke rising from a fire and the taste of something fresh, local, and proudly homegrown on the braai.
This year Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing steps into the spotlight as a key partner of Ultimate Braai Master Season 9, celebrating South Africa’s apples and pears alongside the fierce competition to crown the nation’s Most Valuable Braaier (MVB).
Season 9 of this popular South African TV series kicks off on Sunday 21 September at 17:00 on e.tv, and promises to bring viewers all the excitement combining fire, flavour and a fresh twist as eight teams light up the coals in pursuit of braai glory.
Filmed against the spectacular valleys of the Overberg district in the Western Cape – also home to Tru-Cape’s Elgin orchards – this season celebrates more than just food. It’s about resilience, heritage, and the joy of gathering around the flames.
Conrad Fick, Marketing Director at Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing said: “As South Africa’s largest exporter of apples and pears Tru-Cape is thrilled to join the ninth season of Ultimate Braai Master. This is the perfect stage to celebrate fresh, homegrown flavour and the spirit of sharing great food around the fire.”
Roelf Pienaar, Managing Director of Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, added the company believes fresh, wholesome fruit belongs at the heart of every South African table. “And what better stage to showcase that than around the braai? Ultimate Braai Master is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of our shared heritage, creativity and love of food. We are proud to support Season 9 and look forward to seeing how our apples and pears inspire contestants to bring something truly fresh to the fire.”
Season 9 will be judged once again by South African culinary icons Chef Pete Goffe-Wood and Chef Bennie Masekwameng, with Tapfuma Makina returning as host to guide viewers through the fiery highs, crushing eliminations, and unforgettable plates of proudly South African cuisine, with Tru-Cape ensuring freshness takes centre stage.
Since its debut in 2012 the show has brought together braai lovers from all walks of life, challenging them with intense, fire-fuelled cook-offs in a single, purpose-built braai arena.
Each season, teams of two – a Braai Master and their Braai Buddy – take on a series of gruelling challenges designed to test their skills, creativity, and endurance under pressure. Judged by a panel of culinary legends, only the strongest teams make it through the flames.
This season turns the heat up with a powerful twist – All-Stars vs Wild Cards. Former finalists and champions return to defend their legacy against a bold new wave of unknown contenders. It’s experience versus raw ambition in a head-to-head format where every fire tells a story, and only one team will earn the title of South Africa’s Ultimate Braai Master.
Make sure to tune in for the latest season.
