Summer is fast approaching and with it, the need to brush up on your barbecue skills. You’ll only have so much time to practice before the holidays are upon you. So, it’s important that you’re ready to cook out.
1. Preparation
The first step is perhaps the most important one. It’s been a while since you last used the barbie so, you need to go check it out and give it a good clean. Grilled meats always taste more delicious when you’re working with a clean barbecue. It will also extend the lifespan of your kit. You may dismiss this thinking the nasty bits clinging to your grill add flavour. The truth is they create flare-ups with your flames and can disturb the flavours of your food. Next, you’ll want to check your propane or charcoal levels. You want to make sure you have plenty of everything.
2. The Cook
When cooking, you’ll want to create zones on the grill. These are zones of indirect and direct heat. Large cuts of meat should be placed over indirect heat to allow it to cook slowly, thoroughly, and without burning it. Smaller cuts like wings, sausages and thin burgers can use direct heat, allowing that delicious barbecue finish.
Indirect heat is also an effective way to turn your barbie into a smoker. If you want to cook a chicken, pork shoulder, ribs or brisket. You can add hickory smoked wood chunks to your coals and smoke meat til your heart’s content. You can spread your coals to each side of the grill and use a pan in the middle area to catch drippings. This will keep the grill nice and clean.
3. The Food
It’s daunting, whether it’s for your immediate family or a large group. You want to choose food that everyone loves, without being too boring in your choices. You need to calm down – just write out a list with the number of guests you’re expecting and think side dishes. The meat might be the main attraction, but the side dishes bring it all together. Make easy side dishes that you can prepare in advance so that your total focus can be on grilling when the time comes. You could also just head on down to the local supermarket and get yourself some pre-made coleslaw and potato salad. The last thing you want is to be running around trying to take care of everything all at once.
4. Drinks
Are you inviting everyone to bring their own beverages or are you providing everything? Why not make an alcoholic punch for everyone to share? You can keep it simple with prosecco and watermelon or cucumber, mint, and gin. It can get expensive so be clever with your approach.
5. Atmosphere & Entertainment
Use LED lights to decorate the area and don’t forget to mow the lawn! Think about where people will sit to eat, relax, and converse. You want everyone to have a great time!
Finally, entertainment. Create a barbecue playlist and let it play in the background. You can introduce games after everyone has had time to relax. That’s up to you.
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