Summer is here, which means it’s time to fire up the barbecue! At Australian Butchers Store, we know a thing or two about quality meat, and we’re excited to share some summer BBQ ideas that will make your grilling experience unforgettable.
Whether you’ll be celebrating the Australia Day long weekend or simply want to make the most of lighter evenings, warmer temperatures, and the kids on holidays, there’s no better place to be than right beside your BBQ.
Shop online or visit us in-store!
Australian Butchers Store is a leading butcher in Melbourne providing families and businesses with a huge range of premium quality meat products at wholesale prices.
We have four stores across Melbourne’s south-east, and also offer the added convenience of ordering online so you can enjoy delivery to your doorstep!
Explore our online butchers in Melbourne or find out more about our stores here.
Sizzling summer BBQ ideas your family will love
Enhance flavours with different marinades and rubs
Elevate your meat game with marinades and rubs. Some of our favourites include classic BBQ sauces, zesty marinades, and exotic spice blends, all designed to infuse your meats with incredible flavour.
Enjoy a variety of meats
Create a diverse BBQ experience by including a range of different meats – and cuts of these meats. From succulent chicken skewers to juicy beef burgers, tender lamb chops, and mouth-watering eye fillet steaks, enjoy a beautiful array of choices.
Explore new cooking techniques
While grilling is considered the most popular and common type of cooking, have you considered smoking?
This slow and steady journey is all about cooking meat at lower temperatures, and infusing it with wood chips. We’ve previously broken down the difference between BBQ, grilling, and smoking techniques in this blog post, so check it out and get inspired!
Don’t forget the sides!
Complete your BBQ feast with a range of delicious side dishes. Think fresh, zesty salads, crunchy coleslaw, and a medley of colourful roasted veggies. Summer staples include:
- Corn on the cob
- Sliced zucchini and eggplant
- Charred red capsicum
- Crunchy asparagus
- Juicy cherry tomatoes
- Grilled onions
Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
BBQ pizza
Say “Ciao” to your very own pizzeria!
Craft your pizza dough, layer it with BBQ sauce, cheese, and small goods including prosciutto, chorizo, or bacon, and grill it to perfection for an easy and fun pizza experience at home.
Extend the BBQ with dessert on the grill!
Explore creative ways to keep the BBQ going until dessert time!
Grill pineapple slices or ripe peaches until caramelised, then serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – a perfectly sweet ending to your BBQ.
BBQ brunch
Elevate your brunch game by hosting a BBQ brunch. Grill breakfast sausages, and sizzling bacon, and cook eggs in a cast-iron skillet right on the grill. The perfect, slow start for those lazy summer weekends!
8 quick-fire tips for BBQ perfection
1. Start with quality meat
The better the meat, the better the outcome.
Start with high-quality meat from your trusted local butchers. Our friendly team of butchers are always happy to help offer advice and answer your questions, so visit us today!
2. Preheat the grill
Preheat your barbecue grill to the appropriate temperature. For searing, go for high heat, and for slow cooking or smoking, remember the rule: low and slow.
3. Oil the grates
Before placing the meat, brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking and enhance those beautiful grill marks.
4. Season well
Season the meat generously with your choice of rubs, marinades, or simply good old salt and pepper. Let it sit for a while – overnight or a few hours if possible, but even a few minutes – to allow those beautiful flavours to be absorbed.
5. Use a meat thermometer
If you’re a budding BBQ aficionado, you might want to consider Investing in a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature of the meat.
6. Sear for flavour
Searing meat at high heat for a short time locks in juices and creates a flavoursome crust. Start with searing and then adjust the heat for the desired doneness.
7. Let it rest!
After cooking, make sure you allow the meat to rest for a few minutes. This will ensure juices are reabsorbed and distributed, resulting in a juicy and tender final product.
8. Clean and maintain your grill
Regularly clean your grill grates and burners to help ensure even cooking. A well-maintained grill simply performs better!
Enjoy delicious BBQ flavours this summer
We hope you’re now inspired to explore different cuts of meat, new grilling techniques, and bold, varied flavours in your next barbecuing adventure. Whether you’re grilling for friends and family or simply savouring the moment with a little solo time, enjoy your summer!
