Brochettes
At a glance
| Type of dish | Grilled skewers |
|---|---|
| Usual meat | Goat or beef; also chicken, lamb, fish and vegetables |
| Served with | Chips and salad, or boiled or fried green bananas |
| Name | From the French broche, a skewer |
Source: The New Times: Yet another contribution from the French cuisine (4 February 2010); Wikipedia: Rwandan cuisine1,2
What They Are
Brochettes are pieces of meat threaded on a wooden or metal skewer and grilled; both kinds of skewer are used in Rwanda. The name is French, a diminutive of broche, meaning a skewer or spit. In Rwanda brochettes are usually made with goat or beef, and versions with chicken, lamb, fish or vegetables are also made.1,2
How They Are Served
Brochettes are generally grilled, although they can also be roasted or sautéed. In Rwanda they are usually served as part of a larger plate with French fries and salad, and in bars they are sometimes served with boiled or fried green bananas. They are eaten straight from the skewer or pushed off it onto the plate.1,3
Similar Dishes Elsewhere
Grilled skewers are found in many cuisines. The New Times compares brochettes with souvlaki in Greece, kebab in the Middle East and satay in Thailand.1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are brochettes?
Skewers of grilled meat, usually goat or beef. Chicken, lamb, fish and vegetable versions are also made.
What are brochettes served with?
Usually chips and salad, and in bars sometimes boiled or fried green bananas.
Where does the name come from?
From French, a diminutive of broche, meaning a skewer or spit.
Sources
- The New Times: Yet another contribution from the French cuisine (4 February 2010)
- Wikipedia: Rwandan cuisine
- The New Times: Tracing the origins and role of bananas in the Rwandan culture
Facts checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestRwanda.com for general information.
