Outdoor Entertaining

Tips

Although it is rumoured that American servicemen brought the concept to Australia – we know that where Americans consider BBQ to be the process of cooking Aussies know a barbie to be a party!

The barbie epitomises effortless entertaining. The atmosphere is always casual and the food is simple to prepare, share and serve. The menu possibilities are endless, so here are a few tips to consider especially in the warmer weather…

• Citronella candles are an ideal way to keep bugs away and in the evening they double up as outdoor lighting. Have some extra insect repellent on hand just in case!
• Outdoor umbrellas or shade cloth are ideal to keep your guests protected and they look great. 
• In warmer weather, make sure that your food does not sit out for more than an hour 
• Barbequing Kebabs?– soak the wooden skewers in water overnight and marinate the meat for at least 12 hours in advance for a succulent result.
• Try the “Brick Trick” to barbeque chicken breasts so that they are moist, tender and delicious. Take a regular brick, wrap it in aluminium foil and place it on top of the chicken while it grills.
  

BBQ Checklist

• Marinated meat, chicken, seafood or vegetables & cooking. Just about anything can be grilled so let your imagination run wild.
• Sides & salads
• An ice tub with drinks
• Music & seating 
• Good friends & family
  

Cheesy Bits

A cheese platter featuring a selection of cheeses like a wedge or wheel of South Cape Camembert, some South Cape Blue Cheese and South Cape Persian Fetta is ideal. Serve with quince paste, some fresh grapes and South Cape Classic Crispbreads.

For an ideal treat to serve before the main fare, stuff some figs with South Cape Blue Cheese and wrap in prosciutto. Grill on the barbie or back in a hot oven until cheese starts to melt and the prosciutto crisps a little.