It’s National Barbecue week this week and there’s never been a better time for some alfresco cooking.
Temperatures are rising again this week and if you’re on the hunt for a new barbecue, there are plenty of options available.
Whether you want to go for a traditional charcoal grill or a gas alternative, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.
And you don’t have to have a huge back garden to get grilling.
Thanks to the broad range of options on offer, a balcony or terrace can be used for cooking up a storm.
Compact
Lynsey Abbott, senior buyer at Dobbies garden centres, which has stores in Gailey and Lichfield, says you just have to think outside the box.
Lynsey said: “We’re seeing an increase in city dwellers looking to make the most of their apartment balconies and compact outdoor spaces, so lightweight portable options like the Sahara Portable Mini BBQ have been a huge hit. These nifty barbecues can just as easily be fired up on a balcony as they can on a camping trip, or even on the beach, so they make the perfect summer accessory.
“For those with a bit more space, who are perhaps just getting started on their grilling journey, kettle barbecues are a great option.
“Not only are these easy to move in and out of storage, but they’re also big enough to feed a family of six and heat up in under 15 minutes.”
Two-tier
Lynsey says the Kamado Joe Classic is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and features an impressive two-tier system that allows you to cook foods at different temperatures, plus handy foldable side shelves for simple storage.
“When it comes to those suitable for grilling enthusiasts, you can’t go wrong with a large gas model. Barbecues like the Weber Genesis and the Sahara X450 are fantastic options for people who like to entertain and throw regular summer garden parties. These come complete with foldable prep and serve tables, and because they are larger, they’re great for catering to a range of different guests when hosting.
“With enough grill space to separate meat and veggie food, these options make prep for different dietary requirements easy and stress free. If you’re a grilling guru, this style of barbecue is a garden must-have and will completely change the way you dine alfresco this summer.”
Chic
And it’s not just getting the perfect barbecue that helps create a gastronomic success.
As Liam Glennon, a buyer at at VonHaus which supplies a range of homeware products, says: “Barbecue season is one of the best times of year for getting friends and family together to enjoy some sunshine and good food. It only takes a couple of essentials to transform your garden into a chic al fresco dining space: a BBQ and a comfy garden dining set. Just pop your BBQ close to your seating and you’re good to go.
“You can even get extras to help you out, including items like melamine dinner sets and shatterproof glassware for the garden, or even a gazebo if you don’t want the weather to ruin your plans.”
