Our Guide to the Perfect Summer BBQ: tips, recipes, and more from Parson's Nose

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it's the perfect time to fire up the grill and host a summer BBQ. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a BBQ beginner, our guide will help you create an unforgettable outdoor feast.

From selecting the best cuts of meat to mastering the grill and serving up delectable sides, we've got you covered.

Selecting the Best Meats

At Parson's Nose, we believe that the foundation of a great BBQ starts with top-quality meat. Here are our top picks for a summer BBQ:

1. Steaks: opt for well-marbled cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or T-bone. These cuts are flavourful and cook beautifully on the grill.
2. Ribs: both pork and beef ribs are BBQ classics. Baby back ribs and spare ribs are tender and juicy when cooked low and slow.
3. Chicken: whole chickens, thighs, and drumsticks are perfect for grilling. Marinate them for extra flavour and juicy results.
4. Sausages: from traditional pork sausages to spicy chorizo, sausages are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
5. Burgers: For a delicious and customisable BBQ staple, craft your burgers from high-quality ground beef, lamb, or even plant-based alternatives.

Preparing the Grill

1. Clean the Grill: Ensure your grill is clean and free of any residue from previous cooking. A clean grill prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to the appropriate temperature. For high-heat searing (steaks and burgers), aim for around 230°C (450°F). For low-and-slow cooking (ribs), keep the temperature around 120°C (250°F).
3. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks on your meats.

Essential BBQ Recipes

Classic BBQ Ribs

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Rinse the ribs and pat them dry. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
3. Rub the ribs with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Wrap the ribs in foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the ribs, basting with BBQ sauce, for 10-15 minutes until caramelised.

Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.

Perfectly Grilled Steaks

Ingredients:

• 4 ribeye steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to high heat.
2. Rub the steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for your preferred doneness.
4. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Delicious BBQ Sides

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and onions in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill until tender and slightly charred.
2. Classic Coleslaw: For a refreshing side, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing of mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grill corn cobs until charred and serve with butter, salt, and a sprinkle of paprika.

Hosting Tips

• Create a Relaxed Atmosphere: Set up comfortable seating, play some background music, and provide shade for guests to create a welcoming environment.
• Beverage Station: Offer a variety of drinks, including water, soft drinks, and a selection of alcoholic beverages. Consider making a signature summer cocktail.
• Interactive Elements: Set up a DIY burger or hot dog bar with a variety of toppings and condiments. Create a build-your-own side salad bar, allowing your guests to pick what parts of a salad they want to include on their own plate. This will add a fun and interactive element to your BBQ. 

At Parson's Nose, we're passionate about bringing people together over great food. We hope this guide helps you host the perfect summer BBQ filled with delicious dishes and cherished memories. Happy grilling!

Don’t forget you can shop in-store at any of our stores in Fulham, South Kensington, Putney and Selfridges. As an online butcher, you can also take advantage of our nationwide delivery and have our quality meats and produce straight to your door; shop here.