The weather’s warming up, the sun is beating down and gardens are bursting into bloom – the BBQ season has arrived! The 20th National BBQ Week begins on 30 May, so it’s time to dust off your best apron and prepare for some hearty outdoor dining.
However, it takes more than sunny skies and unrelenting optimism to make you a god behind the grill. We are here with five fantastic tips that will help your barbecues become the talk of the town and make your garden parties the dream destination for your friends and family. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll be hosting the hottest barbecues for many summers to come.
Preparation is everything
The success of your barbecue begins far before your guests arrive. It’s important to have all your food ready to go well in advance of your garden party, so you can concentrate on cooking and creating a good atmosphere on the day itself. This begins with ensuring all frozen meat is thoroughly thawed out before they get to the grill, in order to guarantee they don’t stay raw on the inside.
Another essential step is marinating your meat and fish. Marinate overnight when possible for maximum flavour, using light olive oil or vegetable oil to avoid burning on contact with the barbecue. Getting these steps done early will not only save you on washing up, but help make your dishes as tasty and tender as possible.
Get the best with gas
It’s a debate that has spanned the ages – gas or charcoal? For us, the solution is simple. When it comes to quick, convenient cooking, gas grills reign supreme. It provides the perfect platform for your outdoor dining, whether you have been planning a party for weeks or it comes in the spur of the moment. The belief that charcoal adds a unique flavour to your dishes is mere myth.
Gas barbecues, like the above stainless steel Sahara X450, provide the ideal foundation for a glorious garden party. Getting the best flavour in your food is based on consistent cooking at the right temperature, which is much easier to manage with gas. While the thought of toiling over a traditional charcoal model may seem idyllic, step into the future for a safer, simpler experience.
Put a lid on it!
An essential component of a great gas burner is its lid. Using a lid helps lock the flavour in your meat and fish and helps keep the temperature constant. It also means you can add a little extra to your meal, like melting cheese over some delicious burgers.
Safety in staying put
While a barbecue is about having fun with your nearest and dearest, it is important to keep yourself and others safe around the grill. The best way to achieve this is to stay put while you cook. This will help keep any children and animals away from your workspace, and get the best results on the grill.
Don’t worry about getting lonely – we’re sure a ‘helpful’ friend or relative will keep you company with some handy tips while you cook.
Don’t forget the veggies!
Have you been working your green fingers to the bone in your vegetable garden? Growing your own veggies can be a very therapeutic experience, especially if you reap the rewards on the grill. May is the prime time for grilled asparagus, but awesome alternatives include onions, corn and carrots.
If you are looking for the ideal alfresco experience, our fantastic range of BBQs provide the perfect foundation for your feast. Come and see our eye-opening selection in store and at bit.ly/EDShopBBQs.
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