Nothing says summer like the smell of sizzling meat on a grill, surrounded by friends, family, and the warm glow of a perfect BBQ. But achieving that perfect BBQ isn’t just about firing up the grill and tossing on some steaks. It requires the right cuts of meat, proper seasoning, and expert cooking techniques. At Burts Catering Butchers, we are here to share the secrets to a perfect BBQ.

Choose the Right Cuts

The foundation of any great BBQ starts with the quality of the meat. When selecting cuts for the grill, here are some go-to options:

• Ribeye Steak: With its rich and robust flavour, ribeye is a top choice for grilling. The fat melts into the meat, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Pork Ribs: Whether you prefer baby back or spare ribs, slow-cooking these bad boys over indirect heat will give you that fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
• Chicken Thighs: Unlike chicken breasts, thighs are less likely to dry out on the grill. Their higher fat content keeps them juicy and flavourful.
• Brisket: If you have time, slow-cooking a brisket on the BBQ can yield an incredibly tender and smoky piece of meat that’s well worth the wait.

Mastering Marinade

Marinades are the unsung heroes of BBQ, infusing your meat with flavour and helping to tenderise tougher cuts. Here are some key components of a great marinade:

• Vinegar, citrus juice, or wine helps break down the proteins in meat, making it more tender.
• Olive oil or another fat carries flavour into the meat and keeps it moist.
• Salt is crucial, but don’t forget other spices and herbs like garlic, rosemary, thyme, and pepper. For a little sweetness, add honey or brown sugar, which also helps with caramelisation.

Remember, marinade time matters. For most cuts, 4-6 hours in the fridge is sufficient, but for tougher meats like brisket, you might want to marinate overnight.

Perfecting the Grill Setup

The way you set up your grill can make or break your BBQ. Set up your grill with a hot side (direct heat) and a cooler side (indirect heat). This allows you to sear your meat on the hot side, then move it to the cooler side to cook through without burning. Always preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking. Finally, keep your grill clean to prevent old food residue from sticking to your fresh meat. Use a grill brush to scrape off any leftover bits after preheating.

Seasoning

While marinades are great, sometimes the best seasoning is a simple dry rub. A classic blend that works wonders includes kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika (for a bit of smokiness), and brown sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness). Generously rub this mixture into your meat before grilling. Remember, it’s important to season your meat about 30 minutes before it hits the grill to let the flavours penetrate.

Timing is Everything

Different meats require different cooking times, so it’s essential to know your grill and keep an eye on the clock:

• Steaks: Depending on thickness and preference, steaks usually need 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
• Chicken: Boneless thighs take about 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in pieces need 10-12 minutes per side.
• Ribs: These should be cooked low and slow—about 3-4 hours over indirect heat at around 225°F (107°C).
• Brisket: This is an all-day affair. Expect to cook it for 10-14 hours at 225°F (107°C), until it reaches an internal temperature of around 195°F (90°C).

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This is the most reliable way to ensure your meat is cooked perfectly.

The Importance of Resting

After all the hard work of grilling, it’s tempting to dive right in. But patience pays off! Let your meat rest for at least 5-10 minutes after it comes off the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and flavourful.

Sauces and Sides

While the meat is the star of the show, the right sauces and sides can elevate your BBQ to the next level. Whether you like a tangy vinegar-based sauce, or more of a sweet, smoky or a spicy variety, you have a few options on hand to suit different tastes. Classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and grilled vegetables are always crowd-pleasers. Consider offering a mix of flavours and textures to complement your main course.

Where’s Best To Buy This Meat?

At Burts Catering Butchers, if local to us, we extend our services with a convenient home delivery option. This ensures that cuts of nutritious and delicious meat are delivered straight to your doorstep.

We are a catering butcher who works across the South East of the UK, delivering quality meat to hotels, restaurants, pubs and brasseries as well as schools and event venues. If you are looking for a reliable and quality butcher to deliver your meat then please get in touch at 01424 730417 or by filling out our enquiry form. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.