This makes an impressive starter or even a main dish, depending on the portion size. For a main dish, you can pair it with rice, couscous, a braaibroodjie, and a colorful salad.
You can buy abalone from West Coast Abalone. You can use either fresh or canned abalone for this recipe. If using fresh abalone, clean it (no need to do this for canned abalone) and chop it to fit into your kelp stipe. Push the abalone down into the stipe and fill it almost to the top, leaving a few centimeters of space. Pour in a generous splash of good-quality white wine. Seal with tin foil, or get creative—a soaked wine or champagne cork will provide a better seal.
Braai on the grid over coals (or gas) for 20 minutes, turning once or twice. Remove carefully. Slit the kelp down the middle, cut into portions, plate, and serve with lemon and a dash of gourmet abalone salt. Enjoy!
