Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to fire up the BBQ and enjoy some delicious food in the sun. Mastering the art of barbequing takes practice and patience. But we have you covered. Here are our top tips to kick off your summer.

Choosing the Right Grill

A BBQ can’t happen without a grill, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Do you prefer the classic charcoal flavour or the convenience of a gas grill? It’s important to choose one that fits your preference as well as your budget.

Preparation is Key

Before you think about lighting the BBQ, you need to do some prep work. Take the time to prepare by checking you have enough gas or charcoal to see you through the BBQ, gather all your tools, and make sure the buns are ready for the burgers.

Selecting the Best Cuts of Meat

The secret to a good BBQ is selecting the best cuts of meat. We recommend looking for cuts with marvelling for extra flavour. Popular choices include ribs, chicken thighs, and pork shoulder. But you can skip the messing around and head straight to the meat boxes that have everything you need in one place.

Marinades and Rubs

Although simply being cooked on a barbeque can provide your meat with tons of flavour, why not go that extra mile with marinades and rubs? The additional flavours can really complement your meat and elevate your BBQ.

Grilling Techniques

Perfect your grilling techniques to achieve that sought-after charred exterior and juicy, tender interior. To do this, preheat your grill to the right temperature and learn how to create different heat zones for perfect cooking. Remember, you need to flip your meat to ensure even cooking.

Resting

A step often skipped is letting your meat rest. Allow your meat to rest before serving to lock in juices and maximise flavours. Cover the meat with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices can redistribute and ensure a tender, flavourful bite.

Sides and Accompaniments

Although the meat is the star of the show, the sides can complement it amazingly. From classic salads and coleslaw to grilled vegetables, choose sides that complement your BBQ offerings and satisfy your hungry guests.

Hosting a BBQ

Hosting a successful BBQ is all about the atmosphere as well as the food. Make sure to provide plenty of shade, drinks, and seats to make sure everyone is comfortable.

Cleanup

Cleaning is definitely the worst part of a BBQ,  but cleaning up is essential for making sure your grill is maintained. Clean the grates while they’re warm to remove the residue and dispose of ashes and grease responsibly. And don’t forget to give the furniture and surfaces a wipe down too.

Safety Tips

It’s always important to prioritise safety during a BBQ. This means never leaving your barbeque unattended and ensuring proper ventilation. It’s also important to make sure kids and pets are kept away from the barbeque when it’s hot and use long-handled tools to avoid burns.

By considering these tips, you’re well on your way to hosting the perfect summer BBQ. At John Howe, we provide a range of delicious meats that are perfect all year round. Our grass-fed beef comes directly from the farm to you, and out other meats are carefully selected by John himself.

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