Last-minute BBQ? Easy peasy with these tips
Beautiful weather, and of course you’re going to have a barbecue! Enthusiastically, you agreed at the last minute in the group chat that the BBQ could also take place at your place. And then: mild panic. Defrosting skewers, cutting vegetables and before you know it, the doorbell rings. Breathe in, breathe out. We have the tips to help you survive this evening.
Defrosting meat
A bit of a grillmeister has enough meat in the freezer for a summer barbecue. But what if that barbecue is unexpected? Time to defrost! And that can sometimes be rather tricky. Erik Waagmeester, owner, butcher and sausage maker at Slagerij De Wit in Amsterdam, offers advice. “Wrap the meat in plastic so no water can get to it, and place it in cold running water. The meat defrosts faster when you use cold water instead of warm water.”
Keep it simple
It’s okay not to come up with culinary masterpieces all the time. Classics like chicken (thighs), grilled courgette or a rack of lamb are always a hit. And you can always make that barbecue cauliflower with Cape spices. We may live in the Netherlands, but the sun does shine here too—at least two days a year.
Snacks to the rescue
For your hangry guests, it’s best to prepare a few snacks in advance. That way, the initial hunger is taken care of. Think quick dips, (ready-made) garlic baguette or potato salad.
Cook faster
Nothing beats a delicious large piece of meat, fish or a vegetable parcel. Didn’t have enough time to prepare? You can save time by wrapping your meat, fish or vegetables in a piece of aluminium foil. Seal the foil well. Your food will cook faster in a sealed parcel of aluminium foil because no air can get in. A delicious vegetable parcel—and more time for your guests.
Drinks
Of course you want an ice-cold beer or another cool drink with your BBQ. With this #lifehack, you can still make that happen at the last minute. Put water, ice cubes and a decent amount of salt in a container. Add the bottles and voilà: your drinks will be ice-cold within half an hour.
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