Top tips to officially kick off of BBQ season!
With summer around the corner, the days grow longer and it’s time to dust off the BBQ and ensure you are ready for a sizzling El Nino summer. However, to ensure your BBQ gatherings are a hit this season, it’s crucial to prepare your BBQ properly. Here are some essential tips to get you ready to feed your guests and entertain outside.
1. The Big Deep Clean
Has your BBQ been languishing neglected outside during a rather soggy winter? Who knows what lurks beneath that cover? So before you fire up for the first time, give it a thorough cleaning. Take off the grates and hotplates and scrub them with a wire brush to remove any stuck-on residue. There are plenty of products available to help with this sometime greasy task. Use warm, soapy water to clean the inside and outside of the grill, paying special attention to any greasy or stubborn spots. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
Has your BBQ been languishing neglected outside during a rather soggy winter? Who knows what lurks beneath that cover? So before you fire up for the first time, give it a thorough cleaning. Take off the grates and hotplates and scrub them with a wire brush to remove any stuck-on residue. There are plenty of products available to help with this sometime greasy task.
Use warm, soapy water to clean the inside and outside of the grill, paying special attention to any greasy or stubborn spots. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
2. Inspect and Replace Parts if Necessary
While giving your BBQ a deep clean, take the opportunity to inspect the burners, igniters, and hoses for any signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged or corroded parts to ensure safe and efficient operation. It’s also a good time to check your gas tank for any leaks or damage. You can also take it into your local Rockgas shop where they can perform a full safety check for you.
3. Grate hack
Has your BBQ been languishing neglected outside during a rather soggy winter? Who knows what lurks beneath that cover? So before you fire up for the first time, give it a thorough cleaning. Take off the grates and hotplates and scrub them with a wire brush to remove any stuck-on residue. There are plenty of products available to help with this sometime greasy task. Use warm, soapy water to clean the inside and outside of the grill, paying special attention to any greasy or stubborn spots. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
4. Refill your gas tank and stock up on accessories
As mentioned, your Rockgas shop can check your gas bottle for safety and also refill it while you are there. No-one likes to run out when that sausage is only half cooked! It’s also a good idea to clean and check your tongs and other BBQ implements, especially if they have been stored outside within the BBQ. Maybe you need a new basting brush, or your meat thermometer has cracked? Check that you have everything good to go.
5. Brainstorm meal ideas
We all know there is an art in creating the perfect barbequed sausage, but maybe this is the summer to be more adventurous. Try vegetarian kebabs, or glazed ribs, or even a whole fish on the BBQ. It’s a good idea to check guests dietary requirements and plan accordingly.
6. Always think safety first
There are a few basic rules to follow to make sure you have a great BBQ season. Always know how to turn it off quickly in case of emergency, and that includes at the gas tank. Never leave the BBQ unattended, and make sure children and pets are supervised and keep a safe distance from and anything hot to prevent accidents.
If you follow these easy steps, you’re all ready to have a sizzling summer. If you need more tips and advice, the teams at Rockgas around the country are always happy to help, and likely share a recipe or two!
Enjoy the summer and here’s to the good old Kiwi BBQ!