As BBQ season arrives, the enticing aroma of charred food wafts through the neighborhood. At Kitche, we adore BBQs, but they often lead to unnecessary food waste. Social gatherings tend to result in excess food, and unfortunately, it often ends up in the bin. But fear not! Chef Dan is here with his top 10 tips for hosting a wasteless BBQ. Let’s dive in!
1. Utilise what you have
Instead of purchasing specific items for your BBQ, make use of what you already have. Treat your BBQ, even gas ones, as an outdoor oven. You can cook with metal frying pans and baking trays, just like you would indoors.
2. Avoid excessive heat
While a touch of char adds flavor, avoid burning your food to the point of wastage. Allow the heat to reach the middle of your ingredients gradually, ensuring they cook evenly.
3. Prepare flavourful rubs in advance
Prepare your favourite rubs and store them in labeled old jam jars. This way, you can avoid wasting ingredients and have them ready to enhance the flavors of your BBQ creations.
4. Soak your skewers
To prevent wooden skewers from burning, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. For better results, plan ahead and soak them overnight.
5. Be prepared
Minimise unnecessary trips in and out of the house by preparing everything you need beforehand. Proper preparation is the key to a smooth and waste-free BBQ experience.
6. Don’t overlook leftovers
Cast iron pots and pans are your BBQ’s best friends. Utilize them to heat up any delicious leftovers and incorporate them into your BBQ feast.
7. Invest in quality tongs
To ensure your food is handled with care and prevent burning, equip yourself with good BBQ tools. Investing in quality tongs can make a significant difference in your grilling experience.
8. Embrace vegetable delights
BBQs are not exclusively for meat. Let vegetables take center stage, especially when marinated to perfection. Discover the delightful world of grilled veggies!
9. Skip disposable BBQs
Avoid contributing to unnecessary waste by avoiding disposable BBQs. If you don’t have a traditional BBQ, you can easily create one using bricks and grated shelves from your oven.
10. Gift leftovers to your guests
Become the ultimate zero-waste host by sharing any delicious leftovers with your guests to take home. It’s a thoughtful way to prevent food waste while giving them a tasty treat.
With Chef Dan’s 10 tips for a waste-free BBQ, you can savor the joy of outdoor cooking while minimizing food waste. Embrace these suggestions, and you’ll not only enjoy a delicious BBQ but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable environment. Happy grilling!
Happy BBQ ing!
