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BBQ Dos and don'ts

sausages on a bbq
Posted January 8, 2015

There’s nothing wrong with a kransky, tomato sauce and white bread (mmmm). But if you want to make your barbeque a little bit spesh, here are tips for holding a great summer party:

DO:

  • If you’re holding a bigger party, get your planning done early. This will mean a lot let stress for you, and make it feel effortless for your guests. Get food and drink prepared well in advance. Offer a variety of dishes, including gluten free, that cater for different dietary needs.
  • If it’s potluck, have a table prepared with empty bowls, where people can transfer their own food without cramming into the kitchen. For something special, offer mini blackboard stickers and chalk, so people can get creative labelling their food (you can buy these at most homeware stores)
  • Get a few friends to act as ‘waiters’ and offer around nibbles and drinks—this will help people relax and start mingling.
  • Create a great atmosphere by using cosy lighting, such as outdoor lamps or lanterns.
  • Hospitality guru and Masterchef judge Simon Gault says that when holding a party you can create that ‘five per cent magic’ by thinking outside the box and having little surprises throughout the evening.

DON’T:

  • The obvious one is, don’t poison your guests! You can do some cheats, like pre-boiling good quality sausages, which will not only save your stomachs, but save you time on the barbeque. Use a meat thermometer for chicken; and for red meats, aim for medium-rare. Unless there’s just a few of you, don’t cook to order—it’s just too much stress!
  • A barbeque should feel relaxed, so keep things casual and fluid. Don’t try to do too much—people will have more fun if you are relaxed and enjoying yourself.
  • Don’t try to be perfect. Remember that your friends have come to enjoy your company, more than your food. So if you end up burning your sausies and getting fish ‘n’ chips’, that might just be the ‘five per cent magic’ that will make your night extra memorable!

(c) 'War Cry' magazine, 10 January 2015, pp8.
You can read 'War Cry' at your nearest Salvation Army church or centre, or subscribe through Salvationist Resources.