Get ready for BBQ season!
The first signs of spring are here, which means it’s time to start planning some delicious meals on the BBQ.
BBQs have seen a surge in popularity in the UK. With restaurants shut due to a series of pandemic lockdowns over the past couple of years, more people than ever before have discovered the joys of a BBQ. According to the food retail magazine The Grocer, the number of BBQs held in UK households rose by 55 million in 2020, a record 40% increase when compared to 2019. And, according to Google Trends, searches for barbecue-ready-food-items surged by 488% in June 2021. Ready foods, such as BBQ sauces gift bundles, makes it easier than ever to host a lip-smacking BBQ with minimal prep.
As we start to move to warmer weather, no doubt BBQs will continue to play a starring role for casual al fresco gatherings. Here we explore how you can ensure you are BBQ ready, from simple go-to recipes to cocktail ideas and must-have condiments and accessories!
Simple, go-to recipes
One of the reasons that BBQs are so popular is that simple and effortless recipes work best. Almost anything tastes great on a BBQ. Chicken drumsticks or thighs, baby back ribs, corn on the cob, fish, steaks, vegetable skewers, meat or halloumi burgers, and sausages all taste great when grilled to perfection and require almost zero prep in advance. Elevate these simple food items further by marinating in advance for extra pizzaz. Hearty salads are a natural pairing for any BBQ and are quick and easy to prepare. Simple drizzle with a flavour packed dressing and you are good to go!
A good selection of condiments
Condiments are a central component to a successful BBQ and making sure you have something to suit everyone’s tastes will guarantee all feel satiated. Classic sauces such as mayonnaise, mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, sour cream, soy sauce, and ketchups are mainstays, pairing with a wide range of meats and vegetable-based dishes. For those wishing to cater to guests who love to inject extra depth of flavour and heat to their dishes, consider adding a flight of luxury hot sauces, chilli oils and chilli flakes to your condiment selection. Other classic condiments include relish, cheese, sliced tomatoes, and pickles – an ideal way to allow your guests to build their own burgers.
The right BBQ tools
It goes without saying that the right tools make all the difference and will elevate your BBQ experience. Before BBQ season officially hits make sure your grill is up-to-standard. If you haven’t already got one, consider investing in a dual fuel grill giving you the option to grill with gas or good-old-fashioned coals. On the topic of coals, for a gourmet BBQ experience, consider experimenting with different types of coals, from hardwood blends to sweetly flavoured ones. Finally, cooking tools such as high-quality long-handled tongs, turners, meat forks, skewers, and spatulas can all help ensure a flawless BBQ experience.
Don’t forget beverages!
For an epic BBQ, a selection of beverages are a must. Make sure you have a selection of high-quality wines, cold craft beers, juices and soft drinks. For extra excitement, consider putting together a cocktail cart with everything guests need to mix up their favourite cocktail. Alternatively, prepare some pitchers of popular drinks in advance, such as a boozy fruit punch, a classic sangria, a lip-smacking Mojito, a refreshing iced tea or a decadent Champagne cocktail.
Are you ready for BBQ season?
