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The right food, the right grill, the right vibe – these are the important ingredients for that perfect backyard barbeque bonanza. With summer just around the corner, we thought we’d make a quick guide to nailing a classic barbecue party in true blue Aussie fashion. We’ve also included a handy personal recommendation for the best backyard grills, smokers, and barbeques.
RELATED: 3 things you didn’t know you could cook on the BBQ
Why do Australians love barbeque parties?
For us Australians, BBQing is more than just a casual get-together – it’s a time-honoured tradition. There’s no better way to spend Easter, Christmas, or Australia Day, than firing up the barbie and inviting over a few friends. Backyard grilling isn’t an activity unique to Australia, but we do have our own special twist on the convention.
According to the Australian Food Timeline, backyard barbecues didn’t take hold in the country until the early 1900s. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the idea of a private BBQ in outdoor kitchens caught on, and we’ve never looked back.
What makes Australian BBQ parties different?
Some people just grill and eat at their barbecues, but that’s not how Australians do it. Here are a few of the things you can expect at an Aussie backyard bash:
Activities: Outdoor sports like cricket and soccer are a common sight at Aussie BBQs. After all, you’ll be eating a lot of food – and what better way to work up an appetite than a few minutes of play?
Relaxed dress code: It’s a yard party, so don’t expect a lot of formal etiquette. The only rule is that there are no rules! Wear the stuff you’d wear in your own backyard – thongs, shorts, and singlets are all fair attire in a backyard grill. If you aren’t sure about the stuff you should wear, asking your host is the best way to find out.
Smoked and grilled food: BBQs are all about the meat. You can either bring something for the grill (if you’re a guest) or have a selection of meats prepared (if you’re the host.) You CAN have vegan BBQs, but it’s usually something that requires a separate grill from the one used for meats.
What food can I bring to the BBQ?
Red meat is an ever-present sight at Aussie BBQs, but it wouldn’t hurt to expand your palate with other things to cook! Here’s a handy list of foods that tend to be popular at Australian BBQ parties:
- Steaks
- Lamb Chops
- Sausages
- Kebabs/Meat skewers
- Bacon
- Prawns
- Squid
- Mushrooms
- Eggplant
- Onions
- Beetroot
- Capsicums
- Brussel Sprouts
Best smokers and grills for Aussie BBQs
Of course, you can’t have a BBQ without the all-important barbeque. Here’s our review of the best barbeques you can get in Australia:
Matador Radiant BBQ – starts at $299.00 AUD
If you’re looking for a cheap yet high-quality charcoal BBQ in Australia, go for the Matador. With an easy ash disposal system and direct and indirect grilling, it’s ideal for small, intimate parties.
Kamado Joe Classic Grill – starts at $959.00 AUD
Kamado Joe does it all: grill, smoke, and bake for the best portable BBQ in Australia. Switch from each mode by simply adjusting the airflow and use less heat with its generous layer of heat-resistant ceramic.
Weber BBQ Family Q Built In Series – starts at $1,299 AUD
Family BBQ’s a common sight in your home? Then try the Weber Family Q, one of the best built in BBQ’s in Australia. Fine tune how your food is cooked with its infinite control burner valve, and grill efficiently with its cast-aluminum body.
Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 – starts at $999 AUD
The Traeger Pro series gives you an almost effortless grill using its Digital Pro Controller to serve up the right amount of wood for the ideal heat. It’s a perfect blend of old-school wood grilling and modern grilling methods!
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