The UK’s longest-running awareness week has been extended to a fortnight for its special 25th anniversary

This follows last year’s Covid lockdown prompted stay-at-home Easter, where a record 11 million BBQs were held according to nationalbbqweek.info. And that figure is set to increase in 2021!

We have put together a collection of super BBQ tips and a few fab recipes that are great for alfresco eating to help you make the most of the sunshine (when it appears!) and host a spectacular barbi.

Clean up

Clean your barbecue after each use – this will save any nasty surprises the next time you come to the grill.

Handy tools

Keep all your barbecue tools handy to avoid traipsing back and forth to the kitchen too many times. Place everything on a side table next to the barbecue. This means you won’t have to leave the grill unattended, and you can spend more time with your guests. Always make sure tools are thoroughly cleaned and dried before putting them away.

Meat temperature

To avoid burning and drying your food, remove meat and poultry from the fridge an hour before cooking to bring it back to an ambient temperature. This will result in a more succulent cooked result. Be sure to keep the meat covered and out of direct sunlight.

Use long-handled tools

Protect your hands from the heat – always use long-handled tools, such as tongs, for handling the food.

Marinating

Add flavour to your meat and keep it tender by marinating for at least 20 minutes. Some meats are better left overnight, while fish only needs 20-30 minutes – the acid in the marinade will ‘cook’ it if left overnight.

Cook in foil

Save the stress of foods falling apart as you cook them – wrap them in foil. Those foods that easily stick or burn, such as fish, can be wrapped up in foil. Brush the foil with oil before adding the fish, add salt, pepper, a squeeze of lemon and a splash of white wine. Fold the corners together to seal the foil and keep the juices in.

BBQ Sauce

Honeyed Halloumi with Golden Couscous

Cherry Yogurt Ice