Choosing the best BBQ

If you want a more authentic BBQ experience, then charcoal is for you. From lighting the coals to stocking the fire, you’ll achieve that unique BBQ flavour.

Charcoal will take more time to heat up (30-40 mins), as the embers need to be piping hot. Cooking will also take a little longer as the temperature can fluctuate depending on the position of your coals. But by taking your time, you’ll lock in more of that succulent, delicious flavour.

Although seen as a more expensive choice, gas BBQs are a convenient and flexible cooking option, and ideal for novices.

Simply hook your BBQ up to a gas canister (propane or butane are most suitable), press the ignition button and start cooking. You can control the heat more evenly with a gas BBQ, and with most models boasting multiple burners, you can easily alternate your cooking temperatures – giving you a more even cook.

Smart, savvy and super quick. Electric barbecues come with ultimate precision and control.

Powered by electricity, electric BBQs are quick to heat up, smoke-free and perfect for those looking for a hassle-free set up. Models such as Ninja BBQs offer more control than the charcoal or gas BBQs with features such as variable temperature control via app, auto-clean function, digital display and sometimes even multiple cooking modes.

Poke it, flip it, cut it. Have all your cooking equipment close to hand for easy grilling.

BBQ covers are great when you’re short on space – especially when summer showers make a surprise visit.

Classic charcoal, barbeque briquettes or easy fire logs. Pick up essential fuel to get your BBQ going.

Who doesn't love a BBQ on-the-go? Partying, camping or holidaying, a compact barbecue is your partner for the next outing. It's easy to store so you can use it for backyard summer parties as well.

Expand your repertoire beyond BBQs and burgers. Make the best of warm weather and get togethers with fresh, delicious pizzas straight out of the oven.

Want some slow-cooked perfection? Small in size yet big on flavours, these Kamado grills are great for smoking, roasting, or searing. With durable body and compact size, this makes for a great camping companion too.

Up your grillin' game 

Get the most out of alfresco cooking and look for our favourite features:

• Wheels – easily manoeuvre yourself to cook in the sun.
• Warming rack – keep food warm whilst you cook the rest.
• Ash collection tray – this will save you cleaning time later.
• Adjustable grill – have more control over your cooking by moving food to or from the heat.
• Shelves – ideal spots to hold dishes, trays, condiments and beverages for the chef.
• Loading door – safely and easily reload your charcoal BBQ with a handy door.
• Hoods and chimneys – keep food warm with a hood, whilst chimneys will disperse excess smoke.
• Fireboxes – an extra chamber for fuel such as wood for infusing your food with extra smokey succulence.

Sun's out, (burger) buns out

• Check for any dietary requirements as you may need separate tools or dishes.
• Add your food once the flames have died down to avoid scorched edges.
• Marinade any meat the night before to save time and get the best flavours.
• Line your BBQ with a bit of foil for a quicker clean-up.
• Wait until your BBQ is cool before cleaning. Most grills are dishwasher safe or you can use a wire brush. Oven cleaner is ideal for the rest of your BBQ.
• Clean your utensils too so they’ll last longer.
• Dive into side dishes – corn on the cob, coleslaw, potato salad…we could go on!
• Set the mood with a top garden party playlist.

Sunshine sizzles vs cosy grills

• For summer BBQ sessions, prioritise ventilation for safe cooking.
• Choose faster and easier recipes that require searing such as burgers and sausages.
• For winters, take into consideration longer pre-heating and choose heat-retaining BBQs.
• BBQs with lids are best for winter recipes that require slow cooking such as root vegetables or chicken skewers.
• When storing you BBQ for the winters, ensure that it is clean, dry, and oiled to prevent rusting.

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