Whether you do it regularly or go all out on a small number of occasions throughout the year, barbecuing doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and some strategic planning, you can enjoy mouthwatering grilled dishes without draining your wallet.
To enable you to barbecue whenever you want, we’re going to explore some savvy tips and tricks for barbecuing on a budget, from affordable cuts of meat to clever grilling techniques.
So, fire up your grill, and let’s get started on your journey to delicious and budget-friendly BBQ!
It’s time to sizzle up some savings…
Choose Budget-Friendly Cuts of Meat
One of the easiest ways to save money on your BBQ adventures is to select budget-friendly cuts of meat.
Opt for cuts like chicken thighs or pork shoulder. These cuts are not only more economical but also have plenty of flavour, especially when slow-cooked on the grill. Marinate them overnight to tenderise and infuse flavour.
Using a barbecue with our multi cooking surface in combination with a wok or pan, you can even cook minced beef. Beef with more fat is cheaper, with fat actually helping to enhance flavour. You can always drain the fat away later if you wish.
Make Your Own Burger Patties
You can also skip the pre-made burger patties, and use minced meat or even mince the meat yourself. Invest in a meat grinder or ask your butcher to do it for you. Not only is this cost-effective, but it also allows you to customise the blend of meats and seasonings. Plus, freshly minced meat results in juicier, more flavourful burgers.
Buy in Bulk and Freeze
Take advantage of any sales and discounts by buying meat in bulk. You can sometimes grab a family sized bargain if you’re lucky. Once you’ve made your purchase, divide the meat into portion-sized servings and freeze them. This not only saves you money but also ensures you always have meat on hand for impromptu BBQ gatherings.
Try More Vegetables
Grilling doesn’t have to revolve solely around meat. Incorporate vegetables into your BBQ menu. Vegetables like bell peppers, courgette, and corn on the cob grill beautifully and are a cost-effective way to add variety to your meals. Season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until they’re tender and slightly charred. Vegetable skewers are also a winning idea.
Check our recipes page for more vegetable-based dishes, updated regularly!
Shop Seasonal Produce
Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be more affordable and tastier. Plan your BBQ menus around what’s in season, and you’ll enjoy fresh, budget-friendly sides. For example, spring and summer offer an abundance of ripe tomatoes, perfect for homemade salsa, while autumn is the time for grilled apples or butternut squash.
Embrace the Power of Marinades
Marinades are your secret weapon for adding depth and flavour to budget-friendly cuts of meat. Create your own marinades using simple ingredients like soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and you could even use herbs grown in your garden if you are particularly green thumbed.
Marinating not only enhances taste but also helps to tenderise tougher cuts of meat. If you’ve got a BBQ coming up, be sure to let your meat soak in the marinade for at least a few hours, or even overnight, for the best results.
DIY BBQ Sauce and Rubs
Buying BBQ sauces and rubs can add up in cost over time. Instead, try making your own. Basic BBQ sauce ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices are often already in your pantry. Experiment with different combinations to create your signature sauce.
Similarly, crafting your rubs allows you to control the flavours and save money on pre-packaged options.
Use Charcoal Wisely
If you prefer a charcoal BBQ, make the most of your charcoal by creating heat zones on your grill. Pile charcoal on one side for high heat and leave the other side with fewer coals for indirect grilling.
This way, you can sear your meat over high heat and finish cooking it on the cooler side, saving on charcoal and ensuring even cooking.
Cook in Batches for Leftovers
Plan your BBQ sessions to produce leftovers that can be used for future meals. Cook extra chicken, pork, or sausages, and use them in sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes later in the week. It’s a budget-friendly way to stretch your BBQ creations and prevent waste.
Share the Costs
Consider hosting BBQ gatherings with friends and family where each guest can contribute a dish or beverage, spreading out the costs and allowing everyone to enjoy a variety of flavours.
This approach not only saves money but also makes your BBQs more social and diverse.
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Barbecuing on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or fun. By being mindful of your meat choices, DIY seasonings, and grilling techniques, you can savour the delicious tastes of BBQ without overspending.
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