Chunks vs. Barkless: Which Sekelbos is Your Ultimate Braai Partner?

Add our Braai Chunks for more coals

If you’re a South African, you know that the word “Sekelbos” is basically synonymous with a top-tier braai. It’s the gold standard of hardwoods—known for its incredible density, dry quality, and that signature aroma that signals to the whole neighborhood that the party is at your house.

But when you walk into My Vriend Se Braai Winkel or browse our online shop, you’ll notice we give you choices. Specifically, our popular Sekelbos Chunks and our premium Barkless Sekelbos.

At first glance, it’s all wood, right? Not exactly. Choosing between chunks and barkless is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about tailoring your fire to your specific cooking style. Let’s break down which one belongs in your braai basket this weekend.

The Classic Powerhouse: Sekelbos Chunks

Our Sekelbos Chunks are for the traditionalist. This is the raw, rugged wood exactly as nature intended. Because the bark is still attached, these chunks offer a very specific braai experience.

• The Aroma: The bark is where a lot of that classic, smoky "bushveld" scent lives. When it catches fire, it releases a rich fragrance that infuses into your meat, giving you that authentic wood-fired flavor you just can’t get from gas or cheap charcoal.

• The Heat Profile: Chunks are fantastic for a long afternoon. They provide a steady, intense heat that creates a deep bed of long-lasting coals.

• Best For: A slow Sunday afternoon where the fire is the centerpiece. If you’re planning on sitting around the braai for hours with a cold drink while the wood slowly transforms into glowing embers, the Chunks are your best friend.

The Clean Professional: Barkless Sekelbos

Barkless Sekelbos is for the braai master who wants the performance of hardwood with maximum efficiency and minimum mess. We’ve stripped away the outer layer to leave you with the pure, dense heartwood.

• Smoke Control: Most of the "initial" smoke from a fire comes from the bark and moss. By going barkless, you get a much cleaner burn. This is a game-changer if you have a smaller patio or if your guests don't want to go home smelling like a campfire.

• Zero Waste: When you buy a bag of Barkless Sekelbos, every single gram is high-density fuel. There’s no "fluff" or "chaff." You’ll also notice significantly less ash cleanup the next morning because you aren't burning through the lighter bark material.

• Best For: Precise cooking. Because the burn is so consistent and clean, it’s the favorite for guys who are serious about their steak temperatures. It’s also the go-to for "neat" braaiers who want the heat of the bushveld without the soot.

The Verdict: Why Not Both?

At www.braaiwinkel.co.za, we believe there is a time and place for both. If you want the full sensory experience—the crackle of the bark and that heavy smoke—go for the Chunks. If you want a hot, clean, and efficient fire with easy cleanup, go Barkless.

Pro-Tip: Many of our regulars actually mix them! Use the Chunks for the atmosphere and the initial coal base, then add Barkless logs to maintain a high, clean heat when it’s time to put the meat on the grid.

Ready to stock up? Swing by the shop or visit us online to grab your bags. And don’t forget, every bag you buy earns you points in our Loyalty Program. The more you braai, the more you save!