Yesterday’s news has officially put paid to any immediate social gatherings we might have planned, but with a 12-week timeline having been suggested by some sources for at least getting over the worst of the outbreak, perhaps now is the time to look forward to the later months in the year.
Whether a small family affair or a large social gathering for your friends from far and wide, barbeques are an ideal way to enjoy the company of those you care about while spending time outdoors. Cooking and eating outside with fresh air and the sounds of the birds singing is a perfect start to the spring or summer.
From getting prepared for the occasion to ensuring everything goes smoothly on the big day, you’ll find everything you need to know in this handy list of tips for hosting barbeques at home. From transforming your garden into the ideal venue, to grilling tips for the chef, we’ve got you covered.
Get your garden looking great
While you’ve been inside over the winter months, you may find your garden’s been busy in your absence. If it’s going to be the venue for your perfect barbeque, you’ll want it to look its very best.
In line with advice to only go outside for exercise, it may be best to do just a little every day, and don’t chat with your neighbor beside the fence! Plug in your lawn mower and locate those secateurs, as everything might need a trim. After you’ve given your lawn a masterful manicure, sweep up any fallen leaves and pull up unwanted weeds. By the time you’ve got it looking tidy, you can wake up your garden furniture from its long hibernation in the shed. Make sure you set it up away from where you intend to cook so you don’t smoke out your guests.
Why not add some decorations for the day? Outdoor LED fairy lights are perfect for parties that stretch into the early evening, while a little bunting can add a festive flair to events. Buff and polish your garden ornaments or buy a few new ones in honour of the occasion. Colourful tablecloths and napkins can also be an excellent addition for that party atmosphere.
A garden awning can be a smart move to create a shaded area if it’s a sunny day. Make sure you’ve got a high-factor sun cream on hand too. If children will be attending your barbeque for safety’s sake create a play area far away from the fire. For summer barbeques, you can even set up a paddling pool.
Keep it clean and keep it green
Take your barbeque out well in advance and give all the removable parts a good clean with a strong scrubbing brush for grills. Then make sure you’ve got the supplies in that it needs to run. Whether it operates using propane or charcoal briquettes with firelighters, make sure you’re well-stocked with all the supplies you require, as you don’t want to run out on the day. Clean all your tongs and forks for handling meat too, and make sure you’ve got a heat
-proof glove for cooking if you need one.
While paper plates and cups might seem like an easy way to clean up after a barbeque, once used, they’re not recyclable. If you’re worried about using your best crockery in the garden why not buy reusable plastic plates and glasses, as they’re safe for outside use and kinder on the environment.
Add some music to your party with some outdoor speakers, but always be mindful of your neighbours and noise pollution. They might be trying to enjoy their gardens too, but better still, why not invite them over to join the barbeque instead?
Prepare as much as possible in advance
To ensure everything goes smoothly on the day of your barbeque, it’s always a wise idea to prepare as much as possible ahead of schedule. The more you’re organised, the easier and less stressful it will be for you to host your garden party, which means you can enjoy the day much more.
Prepare all your salads and side-dishes in advance and chill them in the fridge. If you’re inviting a lot of friends and family over, why not ask them to make and bring along a side dish that’s their speciality? Allowing everyone to join in with the cooking can be part of the fun. When you put the cold food out for your guests, keep it covered with cling film and don’t lay it out too soon to attract the unwanted attention of insects and animals.
Make sure you’ve got lots of drinks in, from sparkling wine and beers to non-alcoholic options for those driving. Side bowls of snacks are always a welcome idea, giving guests a choice of nibbles while they wait for a steak or sausage, and don’t forget to purchase plenty of table sauces for dipping. Ask those you invite in advance if they’ve got ant dietary requirements or allergies to ensure there’s something for everyone to eat and enjoy.
Tongs at the ready!
Finally, here are some tips for whoever is operating the barbeque. If using charcoal-powered equipment, always ensure coals are fully lit by the time your guests arrive. Keep all your meat in easy reach, covered in foil and ready for grilling. This is an ideal way to ensure it cooks properly and doesn’t end up uncooked inside and burnt on the outside.
Oil your burgers, bangers and steaks rather than the barbeque grill, as this will stop them sticking, and if you’re using wooden skewers for kebabs, soak them in water for half an hour beforehand to avoid them burning. Always keep cooking meat away from flames caused by released fat, as this isn’t great for flavour. Herbs on the other hand can add extra taste sensations when you toss them on the hot coals.
Try to flip meat only once or twice to avoid losing natural juices, and if you’re barbequing with the lid down, try not to lift it too soon as this will slow down your cooking time. Keep plates with tin foil for covering close by so you can rest the meat after its’s finished grilling.
By following this easy-to-follow ideas list, you’ll be all set to host your spring or summer barbeque. If you’re prepared, everything will go to plan and you’ll enjoy a fabulous day in the garden with family and friends.
