 Barbecue party checklist
Hosting a barbecue party can be the highlight of your summer - but it can also be a stressful and time-consuming event.
That's why we have produced the ultimate barbecue party checklist. Read on for a step by step guide to making your barbecue go with a swing...
Plan ahead: One week before the party
Forward planning is key to a great barbecue. Check the weather forecast well in advance, time your barbecue accordingly, then get your invites out. Once you know how many people are attending, you will be ready to step up your plans!
Also check that you have enough gas with which to cook. The Gas Trac® indicator on Patio GasTM cylinders tells you when you are running low on gas. This means you an plan ahead and purchase a gas refill in good time.
Check your cupboards and the freezer, and start to draw up a shopping list. Make sure to account for any vegetarians that are coming.
Forecast checked...................
Invites sent...............................
Gas level checked..................
Shopping list written..............
One day before the party
A thorough shopping list should help make the supermarket trip a little less daunting.
Make sure you are catering for a variety of tastes and have a good selection of meat. As well as trusty favourites like sausages and burgers, add some chicken wings, minted lamb chops or mixed kebabs to your trolley.
Think beyond food too. Unless you are happy to risk your crockery, buy some paper plates. Similarly be sure you've enough cutlery for all your guests. When the shopping is done, store it all in the fridge keeping raw meat away from other ingredients.
 Drinks wise, you will probably want to have a selection of beer and wine, but make sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic options too.
Shopped for food................................
Got plates and cutlery........................
Stored food safely...............................
Non-alcoholic drinks provided.........
The evening before the party
If you wish to add marinades or rubs to any of your ingredients, do so the evening prior to the party - then leave your marinating food in the fridge overnight to allow it to soak up the flavours.
Check you have all the tools you need for cooking and serving, and make sure the barbecue is clean. It makes the day of the party so much more enjoyable if you do this beforehand. You may also want to think up some party games to play - or fetch them out of the garden shed!
Marinated food...................................
Checked tools and barbecue.........
Planned some games.....................
 The big day!
Use the early afternoon to prepare a couple of quick side dishes and a fresh salad, then you're pretty much done!
Pour a few assorted drinks to offer your guests as they arrive, and pop some music on to kick things off. When your party guests are all present - and hungry - fire up the barbecue. In ten minutes you will be ready to cook.
Serve up your tasty feast with the pre-prepared side dishes on paper plates. Now it's time to sit back and watch your friends marvel - at both the food and your previously-unheard-of preparation skills!
Prepared salads and sides..........
Drinks and music ready.................
|
