Chadwicks Butchers - Summer 2008 - http://www.chadwicksbutchers.com

BBQ Meal plan!

If you haven't got a barbecue then you need to decide which type and size you prefer or are going to need. Before you buy consider the following options.

1. How often am I going to use my barbecue?
2. How many people will I invite?
3. What time do I have to prepare for a barbecue?
4. What type of barbecue would I prefer?
5. What storage space have I got?
6. How much food do I need?

1. How often am I going to use my barbecue?
You have to consider how many times you are going to use your garden cooker as if you are only going to use it once or twice during the summer then a cheaper coal barbecue would probably suffice. There is no point in paying lots of money for a top of the range barbecue if you are not going to give it much usage.

2. How many people will I invite?
If all your gatherings are going to be small then there is no need to buy a large barbecue, however, if you are going to have varied number of people at each barbecue day then perhaps a medium sized barbecue would be more suitable. A medium sized barbecue will give you flexibility.

3. What time do I have to prepare for a barbecue?
If you are time poor then you may have little time to prepare so it is always best to get the food you need a day or two before. That way you can marinate well in time and concentrate on starting the barbecue so that it is hot in plenty of time. Make sure that if you are using coals or wood chips that you have plenty. When starting your barbecue avoid using the liquids as these can be dangerous if miss used. You are better to use fire lighters as they are safe. Just let them burn off before you put your food on.

4. What type of barbecue would I prefer?
If cleaning a barbecue does not fill you with relish then perhaps you could buy a gas barbecue. We use one outside the shops in the summer and they are great as they cool down quickly and you can pack away quickly. Okay so you don't get that Smokey taste of a gas barbecue but if you take a piece of barbecue coal and put it in some olive oil and brush the food with the oil, then you will get a Smokey taste! Remember when you are buying a barbecue to check whether it has the right tools you need.

5. What storage space have I got?
They say that size does not matter but if you have nowhere to store your barbecue then it will be left outside and be ruined for the next summer, so decide before where you are going to store it and buy the size suitable for your space whilst meeting the requirements of your cooking needs.

7. How much food do I need?
It is always best to have a bit more than less as you can always freeze it afterwards. It is always wise to keep your food in a cool box next to the barbecue and keep the lid on as on a hot day you could spoil the meat very quickly especially chicken. People always come back for more an hour later so keep some in reserve for later.

Well we have tried to give you some sensible advice that will help you prepare a little better for your gatherings whether they are small or large. Just remember to be safe and keep the barbecue where children can not touch it or bump into it when they are running around excited; it is best to barrier it of and make it a no-go zone for the children. Remember to avoid liquid fire starters as they can be dangerous. Good luck and have a lovely barbecue