Barbecues and grills hold a special place in the hearts of the British people as they ignite a passion for outdoor cooking and social gatherings. Irrespective of unpredictable weather, the allure to fire up the grill is irresistible. From sunny summer afternoons to chilly winter evenings, the Brits love embracing the smoky aromas and sizzling delights of barbecues. It gives them a chance to display their culinary skills, experiment with flavours, and indulge in traditional favourite foods in the company of their loved ones.
Whether in back gardens, parks, or the great outdoors, the joy of gathering around a grill brings friends and family together and creates cherished memories along with a true appreciation for the art of outdoor cooking.
Traditional Sunday Roast on the Grill
Why limit the Sunday roast to the oven when you can take it outdoors? Succulent roast beef or lamb on the grill while allowing the smoky flavours to infuse the meat to achieve a deliciously charred exterior is the perfect way to prepare a Sunday special meal. It can be served with Yorkshire puddings, roasted potatoes, and a variety of grilled vegetables available in the season.
Gourmet Burgers with a British Touch
Elevate your burger game by experimenting with unique British-inspired combinations. Juicy beef or lamb burgers seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme topped with classic British cheeses like cheddar or Stilton, along with a dollop of tangy Branston pickle or HP sauce for a burst of flavour served on a soft brioche bun for the perfect gourmet twist is the perfect way to savour gourmet burgers.
Scotch Eggs on the Grill
Scotch eggs are a British pub favourite that can be transformed into a barbecue delight. Instead of traditional deep-frying, they can be grilled. Wrap hard-boiled eggs in seasoned sausage meat and grill them until the meat is cooked and has a tempting smoky flavour. Slice them in half to reveal the vibrant golden yolk, and serve with a side of tangy mustard sauce.
Sticky Barbecue Ribs with a Whiskey Glaze
Ribs marinated in a rich and smoky whiskey-based sauce together with flavours of barbecue sauce, whiskey, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and some spices create a glaze that adds depth and complexity to the grilled ribs. The result is tender, sticky ribs with a distinctive British twist.
Grilled Vegetable Medley with Minted Pea Salad
While meats take the spotlight at barbecues incorporating vibrant grilled vegetables into the spread is certainly appetizing. Marinate an assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill them until tender and slightly charred. Serve alongside a refreshing minted pea salad made by combining garden peas with fresh mint, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Planked Salmon
Grill fresh pink salmon on a cedar plank! Soak the plank in water and place the salmon fillet on top and let it cook on the grill. The cedar imparts a subtle smokiness while keeping the fish moist and flavourful. It can be served with a zesty lemon dill sauce or any sauce of choice.
Lamb Kebabs with Mint Sauce
Marinate chunks of freshly cut lamb pieces in a marinade of garlic, ginger, lemon zest, olive oil, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Thread the lamb onto skewers with colourful vegetables like bell peppers and red onions. Grill to perfection and serve with a side of homemade mint sauce for a burst of freshness.
Cornish Pasty Parcels
Cornish pasty grilled individually in a parcel will indeed taste scrumptious. Fill puff pastry squares with a mixture of seasoned beef or lamb, diced potatoes, onions, and carrots. Seal the parcels, brush with egg wash, and grill until golden and flaky. These handheld delights will make a delightful addition to any barbecue feast.
Barbecue Pulled Pork with Cider Sauce
Give the traditional pulled pork a British twist by incorporating cider into the sauce. Slow-cook a pork shoulder with a flavourful rub until it becomes tender and easily shredded. For the sauce, simmer cider brown sugar, onions, and spices until it thickens. Mix the shredded pork with the cider sauce and serve on buns for a luscious barbecue pulled pork experience.
Sausage and Black Pudding Skewers
Combine the richness of black pudding with flavourful sausages by creating skewers. Alternate pieces of black pudding, sausage, and colourful vegetables like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers on skewers. Grill until the sausages are cooked through, and the black pudding is slightly crispy. Serve with a tangy apple chutney for a delicious twist.
Grilled Welsh Rarebit
Grilled Welsh Rarebit is bound to taste heavenly. Prepare the cheese sauce by combining sharp cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and beer. Spread the mixture over thick slices of crusty bread and grill till the cheese is melted and bubbling. Enjoy this gooey and cheesy treat with a lovely charred flavour, while it is still hot.
Grilled Sticky Toffee Pudding
Indulge in a British favourite by grilling sticky toffee pudding. Prepare individual portions of this moist and rich sponge cake, filled with dates and covered in a luscious toffee sauce. Place the portions in heatproof dishes and grill until the sauce caramelizes. Serve with vanilla ice cream scoop or a drizzle of warm toffee sauce.
Barbecued Sticky Toffee Apples
Create a delightful twist on the classic British dessert by grilling sticky toffee apples. Core and halve the apples and coat them in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Grill the apples until they are tender and caramelized, and serve with a drizzle of toffee sauce or a scoop of ice cream of choice for a heavenly dessert.
Grilled Eton Mess
Skewer fresh strawberries and grill until they are slightly charred and juicy. Serve the grilled strawberries with crushed meringue, whipped cream, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a smoky and delectable twist on this beloved dessert.
The Enduring Love for Barbecues and Grills
The British are passionate about grills and barbecues. It shows their appreciation for good food, community, and the joy of indulging in smoky and succulent dishes. So, grab the tongs, gather your friends and family, and let the love for barbecues and grills continue to thrive in the British culinary tradition.