Summer is basically upon us, which means it’s BBQ season. As soon as the sun is hot enough for us to stay outside without shivering, that’s when the BBQ gets fired up. Bearing that in mind, here are some top tips to make your next barbecue one people will remember forever. A small caveat – these tips focus more on the cooking side of things, rather than hosting or entertainment!
Tip 1: Use fresh ingredients
In general, this should be a tip for everyday cooking! Fresh ingredients are packed full of more flavor and less bad stuff. But, it’s particularly important for a BBQ, particularly if you’re cooking meat. Go to the local butches and get all of your ingredients from there. Find a farmer’s market and get fresh produce to make your salads and accompaniments. With this simple tip, you have instantly given your food more flavor!
Tip 2: Variety
Burgers and hot dogs are two quintessential BBQ items. Still, they can get boring after a time. Instead, offer up some variety. Get chicken on there, maybe some pork, possibly even fish! Be sure there are vegetarian options as well, just in case someone at the BBQ doesn’t eat meat. Speaking of which, loads of vegetables are amazing when grilled on a barbecue. Corn tastes fantastic, so don’t be afraid to grill some veg for extra variety. This tops your BBQ from being boring and adds new flavors to the party.
Tip 3: Season your food
Some of you will look at this point with a confused expression. Surely everyone seasons their food? Well, you’re wrong. Too many people will get their food and just slap it on the BBQ, relying on the classic charring to provide all the flavor. In reality, you need to add some type of spice rub or a marinade that imparts more deliciousness on your food – particularly your meat. Check out the video above for a BBQ chicken marinade that takes your food to the next level.
Tip 4: Don’t forget the drinks
You’re so caught up in grilling that you forget about drinks! Now, you could buy some from the store, but where’s the fun in that? Spend some extra time making your own lemonade or other fruity and flavorsome drinks. If you wanted to go down the alcoholic route, there’s a great recipe on Giadzy for a blood orange shandy. It’s Italian-inspired, bringing a nice blend of sweet, sour, and fruitiness to the party. Ideally, use drinks that pair well with your BBQ food to enhance the flavors.
Tip 5: Be patient
Don’t be too impatient when grilling your food. Let it sit there for a while on each side to really get the charred marks. You’re not burning it, you’re adding flavor! The worst thing to do is to keep turning your food so there are no char lines at all. It defeats the purpose of a BBQ! Be patient, let it char.
There you have it; my top five tips for your next barbecue. Whether you’re grilling for your family or a larger group, keep these tips in mind for the best experience possible.
