“It is better to have burnt and lost, than never to have barbecued at all”. Summer is synonymous to barbeque especially to those who are fond of outdoor activities. Grilling barbecue with meat, fish, fruits or even vegetables gives one a relaxing and satisfying moment with family and friends. Kids and adults alike enjoy the fun and bonding that goes with it amidst the astounding aroma of barbecue grilling. Be it on a lazy afternoon or under the moonlight, this humble foodstuff will surely give your gustatory senses a jolt.
Through the years, chefs from all over the world and even simple housewives never stopped reinventing the traditional barbecue. From the naïve skewered meat or fish, it has transformed to a delectable food mastered by anyone with a penchant for cooking. With the twists and variety of flavours added to it, it has become a gourmet that sometimes makes up the name of restaurants. For this year, several add-ons and tips are suggested to further enjoy your barbeque.
Go beyond the standard barbecue fare
Thrill the palates of your guests with all sorts of edible food that can be barbecued. Use fish such as halibut, salmon and tuna. Cut up some colourful peppers and portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar to add up to the feast. Sweet potatoes dipped in lemon juice that caramelise when grilled will make it a perfect match to your barbecue and will also complete your banquet.
Create the perfect marinade
The secret to a perfect barbecue is the marinating mixture. You can choose one that can be bought from the grocery or you can mix up your own to give it a more personal taste. Do not forget to incorporate some herbs and spices for that added zest. Just have in mind that there should be a delightful balance of saltiness, spiciness, sweetness and tanginess. There is also a wide variety of sauces to choose from to make you enjoy your barbecue more. From those usual vinegar sauces to either mustard-based or tomato sauces, you will find something that will suit what is cooking on the grill.
Make something that will also work for the delight and interest of your kids
Since barbecue activity is not limited to adults, more colourful add-ons can be skewered. Go for some carrot bits, pineapples, sweet potatoes or even tomatoes and onions. Have your kids cook their own barbecue but with adult supervision.
Experiment on barbecuing food for health-conscious individuals
For the fitness conscious individuals, barbecue should not be a taboo. Fish and more vegetables plus the basting can give it a regal lift. Trim off some excess fat and that makes it ideal for them.
Pick a drink
Enjoy your barbecue with lemonade. If you want a refreshing cocktail for adults, sangria is a tasty option. The perfect drink will make barbecuing and eating it even more delightful to the palate. You can certainly experiment on your beverage and you will be amazed when you find out that there is something that will help you out in your feast.
Having the right ambiance is also suggested
This will make you enjoy your barbecue to its fullest. For a summer night-out, light up some paper lanterns to give the place a warm appeal. If done during the cold months, light up some logs to keep you warm. This is also ideal for warming up your food and getting some marshmallows done. Let kids enjoy their barbecue by providing some kiddie entertainment.
Go green and stay safe
Be environment friendly. Use 100 percent lump hardwood or and electric or gas grill. It would also be great to have a fire extinguisher handy. You don't want to spoil your day/night by being caught unprepared!
Getting expert BBQ services
For those who do not like to get their hands dirty, a great way of enjoying your barbeque is to simply hand the tedious task to a company specializing in BBQ catering in Toronto. Such a provider can help you manage all aspects of the BBQ from start to finish, all you have to do is just sit back and enjoy the food!