As the season of sun-soaked picnics and garden parties draws to a close, there is no better way to celebrate the summer period than with a BBQ cookout. The final summer bank holiday is fast approaching – schools will...
As the season of sun-soaked picnics and garden parties draws to a close, there is no better way to celebrate the summer period than with a BBQ cookout. The final summer bank holiday is fast approaching – schools will start to reopen, the weather is getting cooler, and it won’t be long till we will all be wishing for the Christmas break. So, whilst the weather is still warm and family and friends have free time, why not create a sizzling, mouth-watering BBQ for everyone to relish?
Here at Cinders, we have curated a list of must-know tips, tricks, and sumptuous recipes that will turn your BBQ finale into an unforgettable memory. Whether you’re a restaurant owner, caterer, or someone that is wanting to host a bank holiday BBQ party in your garden, we have got you covered!
1. The Importance of Top-Notch Equipment
The backbone of any successful BBQ is top-quality equipment. Grilling aficionados and novices alike will appreciate the importance of a reliable, well-made barbecue for delivering those perfectly seared steaks or delicate fish fillets.
At Cinders Barbecues, we pride ourselves on our array of reliable and trustworthy barbecues and equipment, designed for durability, ease of use, and excellent performance. Upgrade your grilling experience with our barbecues, designed to make every grilling endeavour a success story! Plus, if you only need a grill for your bank holiday event, we also offer a local search for barbecue rental service, perfect for those with temporary requirements.
2. Planning Ahead
Planning is key for a stress-free, enjoyable BBQ event, especially if you are going to be hosting numerous guests. Here are a few factors that you might want to consider:
Guest List: consider the number of people attending and their dietary preferences. A mix of meat, fish, and veggie options will enable you to cater to all tastes.
Weather: though we can't control the British weather, having a backup plan for a sudden rain shower never hurts. For example, purchasing a gazebo can help to keep your barbecue a success.
Equipment Check: ensure your barbecue is cleaned and ready to go, so you can start grilling straight away. This also includes BBQ tongs, griddles, and other accessories.
Don't forget the non-grilling essentials like plates, cutlery, napkins, and seating for all your guests. A well-stocked drinks cooler should also not be forgotten about, to raise a toast to the end of summer.
3. Mastering Marinades
One of the main secrets of delicious, barbecued meat is in the marinade. A great marinade not only adds flavour but also helps to tenderise the meat. Ingredients like citrus juice, vinegar, yoghurt, butter and an abundance of herbs and spices can make your meat soft and succulent, whilst infusing it with a wealth of flavour.
4. Expanding Your Menu
Especially for restaurant/pub owners, caterers, and chefs, now is the perfect time to explore beyond the usual barbecued burgers and sausages. Experimenting with recipes and adding variety to your menu can help set yourself apart, attracting new customers and leaving them wanting more!
To help you out, we have listed 3 adventurous summery dishes for you to try that everyone is bound to love:
Barbecued Spatchcock Chicken: a beautifully grilled spatchcock chicken is the perfect centrepiece for any BBQ event. Juicy and soft on the inside with a crisp and flavourful skin, your guests will be turning up for seconds. Not only is the meat itself a wonderful choice, but this dish can be marinated in any flavour you like and can be accompanied by a side salad, potatoes, or roasted vegetables. We recommend this recipe by Country Living, which complements the chicken with a delicious blend of Piri Piri spice.
Shrimp Skewers: skewers/kebabs are always a great choice for BBQ parties, especially in the summer. Generally light on the stomach, packed full of flavour, and easy to eat – you can’t go wrong! Although lamb and chicken tend to be popular choices, this recipe by Gimme Delicious combines shrimp with smoked sausage for something a little bit different.
Grilled Vegetable Salad: for all your vegetarian and vegan guests, a selection of grilled vegetables will go down a treat. From bell peppers and aubergine to mushrooms and corn, you can offer a wide selection for all your guests to enjoy. We think this Feasting At Home recipe looks delightful - inspired by Italian summertime, this salad will be great as a main or side dish.
5. Enjoy the Moment
Finally, remember to take in the experience. A BBQ cookout isn't just about the food – it's about the joy of outdoor cooking, shared laughter, engaging conversations, and making lasting memories. After all, this is the last bank holiday of summer, so make it count!
For more expert tips, tasty recipes, and info on our range of barbecues, please feel free to browse our website or contact us today.
Here's to a fantastic summer send-off!
