Your trusty BBQ may have been hibernating over winter, but with spring on our doorstep, there’s no better way to welcome the season than by getting outdoors and firing up the barbie!
And one of our favourite spring events is the AFL Grand Final. Whether your team has made it to the finals or you’re just excited to celebrate with friends, it’s a highlight of the season. In this blog post, our butchers in Melbourne share what you need to know about throwing the perfect Grand Final celebration!
Reviving your BBQ set-up
After months of cold, your BBQ might need a bit of TLC to get back in action. Starting the season with a clean grill ensures your food tastes better and extends the life of your BBQ.
Begin by inspecting your BBQ for any wear and tear or rust spots that may have developed over winter. Clean the grates and inner compartments thoroughly; burn off any remaining residues, then scrub down with a brush and soapy water.
Don’t forget to check your gas connections or charcoal stocks, depending on your BBQ type.
What are the best cuts for grilling on the BBQ?
Ribeye steak
Known for its marbling and flavour, ribeye is perfect for the BBQ. These steaks cook quickly and remain tender and juicy.
Lamb cutlets
Lamb cutlets are a hit for their rich flavour and beautifully tender meat. They’re quick to cook and ideal for feeding a crowd without missing any action of the game.
Pork ribs
Slow-cooked then finished on the BBQ, pork ribs offer fall-off-the-bone tenderness with a smoky crust.
Chicken thighs
More forgiving than breast meat, thighs are flavourful and retain moisture well, making them great for BBQing.
Sausages
No BBQ would be complete without a variety of sausages. Opt for higher-quality sausages from your local butcher to elevate your BBQ. Perfect for the kids, too!
3 easy marinades packed full of flavour
Elevate your BBQ meats with these simple yet delicious marinades.
Garlic and herbs
Don’t underestimate the flavourful punch of this simple combination! Mix olive oil, crushed garlic, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. This blend is ideal for enhancing chicken and lamb with a fresh, aromatic flavour.
Spicy chipotle
Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with lime juice, olive oil, and a dash of honey. The honey mellows the heat, enhances caramelisation for a perfect char, and subtly tenderises the meat.
This blend is ideal for adding a smoky kick to pork ribs and steaks.
Soy and ginger
Mix soy sauce, grated ginger, sesame oil, and a splash of rice vinegar. This marinade adds a tangy and rich flavour and is excellent for both beef and chicken.
Marinating tips for flavourful meats
Marinating enhances flavour and tenderises your meats, making them perfect for the BBQ. Here are some tips to get the best out of your marinades:
Use acidic components
Ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or yoghurt help to break down tough muscle fibres. These components help to make meat tender and soft.
Include fat
Adding oil to your marinade helps distribute the flavours evenly and prevents the meat from sticking to the BBQ.
Balance flavours
Combine sweet, salty, and spicy elements to create a well-rounded marinade. For example, a soy sauce, honey, and garlic mix provides a simple and delicious base for any meat.
Marinate overnight
If possible, let your meat marinate overnight. This deepens the flavour and ensures your meats are ready to go when you’re ready to BBQ.
Perfect pairings: sides and snacks to complement your BBQ
To make hosting easier, ask guests to consider bringing a side dish or a sweet dessert. Make sure someone picks up plenty of ice to keep your drinks cool too!
Potato salad
A creamy, herby potato salad is a staple at any backyard BBQ. It’s easy to whip up in large batches and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Meat pie
Nothing quite says ‘footy’ like a meat pie. Smaller party pies are perfect for guests to snack on during the game.
Cheese and charcuterie
Create a beautiful display of soft and hard cheeses, cured meats, pâté, and colourful fruit. The perfect centrepiece for your party!
Caprese salad
Fresh, light, and so easy to whip up: a Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious dish that’s especially fitting for a warm spring afternoon.
Kick off footy finals with the ultimate BBQ celebration
As the footy finals kick off and the weather starts to improve, there’s no better way to celebrate the start of spring than with friends and family to celebrate Melbourne’s biggest day of the year.
Get prepared with all your BBQ requirements with Australian Butchers Store.
Buy meat online or visit one of four stores across Melbourne to discover a huge range of high-quality meat and poultry at wholesale prices.
