As the weather cools down and the nights get shorter, we’re all trying to squeeze as much as we can out of summer (and outdoor hangouts!) Barbecues are the perfect way to spend time outside, enjoying the company of friends and family before the weather gets too cold.
Wondering what to serve for your next (and possibly final) summer gathering of the year? Here are some fun ideas to impress and satisfy adults and kids alike.
Appetizers
Before you even get grilling it’s a good idea to serve some appetizers and drinks to keep your guests’ hunger at bay. Try your hand at some new and exciting dishes your guests will love. Bonus: These finger foods ensure there aren’t extra dishes to clean up.
- Chilli Garlic Prawns
Chilli Garlic Prawns are ready in 15 minutes but taste like you’ve been working on the recipe all day. They’re fast, delicious and the perfect appetizer for a barbecue. If you’re serving people who are sensitive to spice, go easy on the chilli garlic sauce.
- Mac and Cheese Pakora
Mac and Cheese Pakora are a hit for adults and children alike. They combine an everyday favourite with the delicious texture of a pakora. Give a couple of options for dips (hot and spicy sauce for those who love spice and ketchup for everyone else).
The main event
While you’ll definitely want to provide sides, like rice and vegetables at your BBQ, let’s face it: proteins will always be the star attraction.
Put a twist on your regular grilled chicken and wow your guests with Grilled Chicken Tikka. This recipe requires you to marinate your chicken overnight, so all of the prep work is done and you just have to grill. Premade spice mixes like ginger garlic paste make preparing this marinade a breeze.
- Bihari Kabab Tofu Skewers (vegan)
Tofu is great for marinating and grilling because it is pretty bland on its own so it really takes on flavour. (Tip: Freeze your tofu, thaw it and then press out the water to help it absorb maximum flavour.) For tofu skewers, chop your tofu into one inch cubes and marinate in National Bihari Kabab recipe mix, chopped fried onions, coconut yogurt, ginger and garlic paste, mustard oil, raw papaya and lemon juice. Let sit for at least three hours, add to skewers and then grill when ready.
Dessert
While ice-cream cones are regular BBQ fare, a non-traditional dessert is a great opportunity to mix things up.
Royal Falooda is a popular Pakistani cold dessert and it will not disappoint. It can be made ahead (and actually needs to chill for three hours) so it’s easy to bring out at the end of your BBQ without requiring extra work in the kitchen.
A BBQ is the perfect way to end the season, and by including these delicious recipes it will be a BBQ your guests will remember during their long winter hibernation.
Gourmets Food 