Home Ec: Let’s BBQ

As soon as the sun is out, or even sneaking out, the urge to barbecue takes over. Don’t let the flames of the grill intimidate you; once you follow these few tips you’ll be a barbecue master!

Types of barbecue

Charcoal

These require charcoal and can heat to very high temperatures, however it is difficult to maintain a constant temperature. As this type of barbecue uses a real flame and needs to heat the charcoal it can take up to 20 minutes to heat fully.  A charcoal grill gives food that great smokey flavour that we associate with a barbecue.

Electric

A great option for both inside and outside grilling, this will heat quickly and keeps a consistent temperature. However, there is no smokey flavour.

Gas

A very popular choice as it is easy to use, easy to clean, only takes 10 minutes to heat and it is easier to maintain a constant temperature than charcoal. The smokey barbecue flavour can be enhanced by adding wood chips.

Boost the flavour!

Marinades

A marinade is used to tenderise meat as well as add flavour. Here are some ideas for marinades; you can mix and match these flavours up as well as experiment and create your own!

• Soy sauce + honey + ginger
• Pineapple juice + garlic + soy sauce
• Orange juice + ginger + garlic
• Buttermilk + honey + mustard

Dry rubs

Instead of a marinade, you could also use a dry rub to enhance flavour. A dry rub is a mixture of spices or herbs that is rubbed into the meat before cooking. Again you could mix and match and even create your own version. Here are some ideas to get you started!

For poultry:

• 6 tbsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp thyme
• 1 tbsp mustard powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (optional — add if you would like some heat!)

For beef or pork:

• 5 tbsp paprika
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp cumin
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp chilli powder
• 2 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper

For seafood:

• 2 tbsp parsley
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 4 tbsp lemon pepper
• Serve with a wedge of lemon for an extra lemony flavour!