Are you planning a barbecue or barbeque (BBQ) party? Make sure you have everything you need to make it run perfectly.
Barbecue/bbq party season is in full swing. Whether you're throwing a small barbecue for the family or a big party for several friends, make sure you have everything ready. From food, to inventory, to drinks, to table settings. We've compiled a list of everything you need for a good barbecue/bbq party. We've also added a few tips to make your party even more special. In preparation, run through our list and make sure you really have everything.
Grill and grill accessories
The grill is the heart of any barbecue/bbq party. Whether you prefer a gas or charcoal grill, round or square, rest assured that you'd be useless without your grilling tools.
What not to forget:
- stainless steel turner - when buying one, look at what material the handle is made of.
- tongs - the ideal tongs are ones that can also be clipped together after use so they don't take up space in your drawer. Also look for them to have a loop for hanging.
- barbecue fork - as with a turner, the material the handle and loop are made of is important.
- grill cleaning brush
- flame retardant glove
- apron
- gas/charcoal
- lighter - you can choose the classic way or choose a lighter that will also heat the coals immediately and you can start grilling right away
- foil - the finished food covered with foil retains its heat longer
- teflon grill mat
- oil - just in case the grilled food sticks and burns, you can rub it with oil or a marinade that includes oil
- towel
- tongs for removing the grill - this accessory has been very popular lately. You don't need to burn the housewife's kitchen gloves, you can grab the grill very neatly and without burning yourself.
Drinks
An ample supply of drinks keeps everyone in good spirits. Think of everyone, so that everyone has something to choose from. But especially make sure you have plenty of water so you stay hydrated even on hot days at a hot grill. Fruit punches or homemade lemonades are always trendy. A cooler with ice and a beer loaded in it is perhaps already a grill/bbq party tradition. You can pair wines with individual dishes to take your barbecue to another level. You can also show off your bartending skills and mix cocktails for your guests.
- beer, wine, ingredients and accessories for cocktail making
- lemonade, soft drinks
- water
- soda
- glasses
- if you don't use disposable cups, mark somewhere where guests can put dirty cups
- hard plastic cups are very suitable, to prevent accidents or possible breakage
- if you use disposable cups, place a trash can prominently
- stickers, markers on the cups (so that everyone knows their cup) - there are various gadgets on the market, ranging fromcolored balls, gluten, or decorations on glasses
- ice
- bottle openers (beer, wine) - ideally two in one
- straws - choose eco-friendly options such as paper or stainless steel straws
Condiments and sauces
Choose condiments and sauces according to the type of food you are preparing. Sauces add the right atmosphere and flavour to grilled food. For flavourings, choose sealable bowls. So that sauces do not attract insects unnecessarily.
- salt and pepper - a salt/spice shaker with a manual grinder is very effective
- olive oil, vinegar, balsamic vinegar - for example, to flavour salads
- marinades, different types of sauces, dips or chutneys - ideally served in sealable containers with a spoon
- ketchup
- mustard
- mayonnaise
- pungent flavouring
- original flavourings: pesto, tahini paste, wasabi paste
- grated cheese - excellent for salads
- roasted pumpkin, sunflower seeds
- roasted onions
Side dishes
In addition to the main course, do not forget about the side dishes. As well as complementing the main dish, many of them make excellent starters.
- bread, pastry
- Potatoes, chips - if you decide to serve classic side dishes such as potatoes, roast potatoes or chips, keep them so that they don't lose their flavour orin appearance
- olives or other boiled sterilized vegetables
- potato salad
- vegetable salad
- pasta salad (or bulgur or quinoa salad)
Desserts
Although most of the attention is on the grilled food, it should not be forgotten that dessert is an excellent ending to your barbecue/bbq party. For cakes, opt for smaller portions so they can be eaten in one sitting. Alternatively, choose desserts in smaller bowls or cups with a spoon.
- fruit salad
- ice cream
- mini cakes
- puddings, creme brulee
Coffee
A good host does not forget to offer coffee. You can have it pre-made in a thermos or serve it on an espresso tray.
Dining
Spice up the picnic table with fun decorations, but don't overdo it. Rather, functionality and practicality should prevail so that people with food and drinks have somewhere comfortable to sit.
When it comes to crockery, if you prefer disposable utensils, look for eco-friendly options; there are bowls and cutlery made from bamboo or compostable materials. Reusable dishes made of hard plastic are very good, there is no risk of breakage or accidents. When using classic non-disposable utensils, you should count on the fact that it will bring a lot of work to wash the dishes, so think about the space where the dirty dishes should be put away.
- plates, bowls
- cutlery
- glasses
- napkins - don't forget a napkin holder so you don't have to chase napkins around the garden
- tablecloth - choose a plastic one, you can easily wipe up any spills
- sharp knife - knives instand or in a case are a safe choice, especially if children are attending the BBQ/bbq party
- knife sharpener
- toothpicks
- ashtray - think of the smokers too, you won't have to pick up butts around the yard. The ideal ashtray is a covered one that won't blow cigarette ash into your food.
Safety features
Always take into account that something can happen. To avoid having to spend a long time looking for things in the heat of preparation in case of an accident, have everything ready in advance.
- first aid case - especially leucoplasts or bandages
- fire extinguisher
- sunscreen
- repellent or repellent candles
Download the checklist and keep it handy.
Above all, enjoy your day with friends or family. Don't let your spirits drop if things don't go as you dreamed. Time spent together is important.
