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If you want to host the perfect BBQ for friends or family, there are a few easy steps you can take to make sure you get everything right. If you live in Australia or California then you have no excuse not to throw a BBQ party. If you are planning a BBQ in Ireland you won’t be guaranteed sunshine, but you will be guaranteed a good time if you follow these top tips.
Guests
Do you want a family gathering, a night in with friends, or a chance to get to know the neighbors? Whoever you decide to invite, make sure you give them enough notice.
Timing
The time you choose to host the gathering will depend on the guests – if there are a lot of families with small children invited, you might want to host the BBQ at lunchtime. If there are mostly older kids and adults attending then plan the BBQ for five or six o clock and let the party stretch into the night.
Weather
If you plan on cooking and eating outdoors, it helps to have nice weather. Check the forecast to see which day offers optimum BBQ conditions. If you live in Ireland you can skip this step because Irish weather is so unpredictable.
Menu
Everyone can bring something or you can provide all food yourself. Either way, buy in bulk and prepare as much as possible the day before. Don’t forget to find out if any of the guests have special dietary requirements, e.g. gluten free, vegetarian etc.
- Meat: No BBQ is complete without a large variation of meat grilling over the coals. The most popular options include: burgers (don’t forget the buns); chicken skewers (add peppers, onions and baby tomatoes), potatoes (wrap them in tinfoil), sausages, hot dogs and fish. Embellish your meat with herbs, spices or marinade.
- Sides: Choose something cheap and cheerful such as a big tray of oven chips or a large bowl of rice. Add a few extras such as potato salad, regular salad, garlic bread, corn and coleslaw.
- Desserts: Suggest that your guest bring the desserts to save you the hassle. Alternatively, prepare some easy options such as fruit and cream with ice-cream or pavlova.
- Drinks: Provide a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Consider homemade lemonade, cocktails, fruit punch, cold beer and chilled rosé.
Essentials
Make a list of all the essentials that you need for the day and stock up in advance. The list should include the following items: plates, cutlery, glasses, napkins, sauces, seasoning, tables, chairs, ice, toilet paper, trash bags, suncream and insect repellent. If you are really stuck for tables and chairs, lay out picnic blankets and cushions for people to relax on.
Shelter
Hopefully you won’t need protection from the rain but you might need to shelter yourself from the sun with a parasol or a marquee.
Entertainment
Adults will entertain themselves with conversation and later you could take out a deck of cards or play a party game. Set up your speakers to play some chilled out rhythms in the background. To keep kids occupied get some crayons, buy a paddling pool or provide the ultimate kids entertainment option – hire a bouncy castle.
Decorations
Decorations are not a must but are a tasteful embellishment. Try bunting, fairy lights, colorful table cloths, novelty napkins and candles.
Barbeque
Don’t forget the essential part of the equation – the barbeque itself. Pick up a few disposable ones or invest in a high-end coal or gas fired unit.
This article was written by Jenna Crotty who recommends www.dublinbounce.ie if you want to hire a bouncy castle.
