Hosting a successful BBQ in the UK doesn't have to be impossible. OK, the weather may make things difficult at times - but it doesn't have to be a disaster just because everyone gets a little wet. A burger in the rain is the new hype - haven't you heard?
So forget about the rain. Buy an umbrella (or a few), and enjoy it! Here are my Top 5 BBQ tips to make everything else go smoothly - so you won't even notice the thunder and lightening.
1. First things first, get yourself a BBQ. If you plan on hosting lots of BBQs (and you're a bit of a show-off) then go the distance and invest in something substantial. If you're more of a one trick pony and think you'll only be hosting one BBQ this year - then pick up a small "pop-up" BBQ for a quarter of the cost. Think about numbers too - if you're cooking for 40 people you're going to need space. If you're cooking for three people - you'll probably be able to get away with a (much) smaller grill.
2. Next thing: Get some decent tools. Buying some good kitchen equipment is necessary for hosting any kind of cooking, and it's a good idea to invest in long-lasting ones rather than flimsy ones that will break the next day. One thing you're definitely going to need for BBQs is a set of good knives, and I'd put a lot of emphasis on this. A good set of knives can help cut down on preparation time - and any nasty accidents too (because believe it or not, sharp knives are actually safer than blunt ones). Personally, I'd recommend Global Knives - but you can read the Global Knives review to make up your own mind.
3. Meat is of course going to be a big priority - and unless you're hosting a vegetarian BBQ, buying some decent meat is a must. Think about buying a big variety too - go for the traditional burgers and sausages, but make things more interesting by purchasing some steaks, some fish and also some ribs. The more you have the better, especially for the hungrier of guests.
4. Be adventurous with your BBQ - I've already mentioned trying out different meats and having a variety of meat available for your guests, but why not try cooking them in different ways too. You could try marinading some of the meat a day before for those who like flavour, or you could make some mixed meat skewers for those who want to try a bit of everything. For ribs - cook them for 40 minutes on the BBQ in tinfoil - and then unwrap them and cook them for a further 10 minutes until they go crispy. It's little details like this that will make it a huge success.
5. Don't forget Dessert - Because we can all eat burgers and steak, but most of us would always say yes to a pudding afterwards too. A great idea for desserts are to make them fun - so make some traditional American Sh'mores or make a banana chocolate melt...! Don't just bring out a tub of ice-cream, get inventive with it!
6. Salad shouldn't be forgotten. People always want salad - whether they like to admit it or not. You'll either get a super awkward guest who is on a diet and won't eat meat (in which case salad will save the day) or you'll get complaints because there is nothing to garnish the meat with. Salad is a life saver in situations like this so just buy a cheap bowl and add some nice dressing. Done.
Oh, and one last thing.... Don't forget the music! Create an awesome playlist well in advance to get everyone in the summer BBQ mood.