As the warm weather rolls in, garden enthusiasts and outdoor entertainers alike are gearing up for the most anticipated season of the year—barbecue season. Hosting a barbecue is more than just grilling meat; it’s about creating a memorable outdoor experience that brings together good food, great company, and a touch of creative flair. This summer, why not elevate your barbecue game by embracing some of the latest trends that are sizzling in the world of outdoor cooking? From innovative grilling techniques to gourmet-inspired flavours, here are the top BBQ trends to try this summer.

1. Experiment with Global Flavours

One of the most exciting trends in outdoor barbecues is the infusion of global flavours into traditional barbecue fare. As culinary boundaries continue to blur, more people are experimenting with international spices, marinades, and cooking techniques that bring a whole new dimension to their grills. Whether it’s Korean barbecue with its sweet and savoury marinades, Middle Eastern-inspired skewers laden with aromatic spices, or the smoky, tangy flavours of South American chimichurri, global cuisine is making its mark on the barbecue scene.

Tips for Incorporating Global Flavours:

• Korean BBQ: Marinate your meat in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sugar, then grill to perfection and serve with kimchi.
• Middle Eastern Kebabs: Use a blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic to season your lamb or chicken skewers.
• Argentinian Asado: Pair your grilled meats with chimichurri sauce—a vibrant mix of parsley, garlic, vinegar, and chilli flakes.

2. Embrace Plant-Based BBQ Options

The rise of plant-based diets has sparked a revolution in the world of grilling. No longer relegated to side dishes, vegetables and plant-based proteins are taking centre stage at barbecues. Grilled vegetables such as aubergines, peppers, and courgettes develop a rich, smoky flavour that rivals any meat dish. Meanwhile, innovative plant-based products like vegan sausages, burgers, and even seafood alternatives are making it easier than ever to cater to a diverse range of dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Best Plant-Based BBQ Ideas:

• Grilled Vegetable Platters: Create a colourful and flavourful spread with an assortment of marinated vegetables, grilled to perfection.
• Vegan Burgers: Try plant-based patties made from ingredients like black beans, chickpeas, or soy, topped with your favourite barbecue sauces and garnishes.
• Plant-Based Skewers: Assemble skewers with tofu, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes, brushed with a tangy marinade.

3. Go High-Tech with Smart Grilling Gadgets

For those who love to combine tradition with technology, the latest trend in barbecuing is the use of smart grilling gadgets. These high-tech tools are designed to make outdoor cooking more precise, efficient, and enjoyable. From smart thermometers that monitor the internal temperature of your meat and send alerts to your smartphone, to advanced grills with temperature control systems, technology is transforming the way we barbecue.

Must-Have Smart Grilling Gadgets:

• Smart Thermometers: Devices like the Meater+ offer wireless connectivity, allowing you to monitor your meat’s doneness from your phone.
• Pellet Grills: These grills use wood pellets for fuel and come with digital controllers for precise temperature management.
• Automatic Rotisseries: Perfect for evenly roasting whole chickens or large cuts of meat, ensuring a juicy, tender result.

4. Focus on Sustainable Grilling Practices

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more people are adopting sustainable practices in their outdoor cooking routines. This trend includes everything from choosing eco-friendly fuel sources to minimising waste and sourcing local, organic ingredients. Sustainable grilling not only reduces your carbon footprint but also supports local producers and contributes to a healthier planet.

Sustainable BBQ Practices:

• Use Natural Charcoal: Opt for lump charcoal made from sustainably sourced wood rather than briquettes, which often contain additives.
• Reusable Grilling Accessories: Invest in stainless steel skewers, reusable grilling mats, and other tools that reduce single-use waste.
• Local Sourcing: Purchase your meat, vegetables, and other ingredients from local farmers and markets to support the community and reduce transportation emissions.

5. Create a BBQ-Friendly Outdoor Space

The setting is just as important as the food when it comes to hosting a successful barbecue. Creating a barbecue-friendly outdoor space involves more than just having a grill; it’s about designing an area that encourages socialising, relaxation, and of course, delicious outdoor cooking. This summer, consider upgrading your garden with elements that enhance the overall barbecue experience.

Ideas for an Enhanced BBQ Space:

• Outdoor Kitchens: Equip your garden with a fully functional outdoor kitchen, complete with a grill, prep area, and storage for all your barbecue essentials.
• Comfortable Seating: Provide ample seating options with outdoor sofas, benches, and dining tables that allow guests to relax and enjoy the meal.
• Ambience Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, and torches to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that extends the party well into the evening.

This summer offers the perfect opportunity to explore new BBQ trends and elevate your outdoor cooking experience. By experimenting with global flavours, embracing plant-based options, utilising smart grilling gadgets, focusing on sustainability, and creating a BBQ-friendly outdoor space, you can host unforgettable barbecues that will leave your guests eager for the next invitation. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and make this summer’s barbecues the best yet!

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