Host the Ultimate August Bank Holiday BBQ Come Rain OR Shine

With the UK Summer Bank Holiday approaching on Monday 26th August, now is the perfect time to start planning the ultimate BBQ for family and friends. But as anyone in Britain knows, summer weather can be unpredictable. Fear not! Knud Augustin, Founder and CEO of premium barbecue brand, Flammkraft, shares his top tips on how to host a successful BBQ no matter what the British weather has in store, alongside advice on BBQ safety, delicious recipes, and which BBQ to invest in for all-weather grilling.

1.Be Prepared for British Weather

“Rain doesn’t have to dampen BBQ spirit,” says Knud Augustin. “With the right preparation, a fantastic BBQ can be hosted whatever the weather.” Here’s how to ensure the event is a success:

• Invest in a Quality Gazebo: A sturdy, waterproof gazebo can shield both the BBQ and guests from unexpected showers. The BBQ should be placed under the gazebo with plenty of ventilation.
• Provide Blankets for Guests: British summer evenings can be chilly, so placing a cosy blanket on each chair for guests is a thoughtful touch. It will keep everyone warm and comfortable, even if the temperature drops.
• Use Eco-Friendly Outdoor Heaters: Consider investing in eco-friendly outdoor heaters, such as infrared heaters, which are energy-efficient and provide instant warmth without heating the air around them. Alternatively, bioethanol fire pits or wood pellet heaters are great for creating a cosy atmosphere while using renewable fuel sources.
• Solar-Powered & Rechargeable Cordless Lighting: As the evening draws in, solar-powered or rechargeable cordless lighting is ideal for keeping the BBQ well-lit. These lights are perfect for adding ambiance to the outdoor space while being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. They charge during the day and provide soft, warm light in the evening without the need for mains electricity.

2. Safety First – Rain or Shine

“Safety is the number one priority when BBQing,” emphasizes Knud Augustin. The following steps can help ensure everyone stays safe:

• Position the BBQ Correctly: The BBQ should always be placed on level ground, well away from anything flammable such as trees, bushes, fences, or sheds. BBQing on a balcony or in an enclosed space should be avoided, and accelerants should not be used to speed up lighting.
• Stay Vigilant: The BBQ should never be left unattended, and children and pets should be kept at a safe distance from the cooking area. It’s easy to get distracted, but staying focused is essential for safety.
• Have Emergency Supplies Ready: A bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher should always be nearby in case of emergencies. After cooking, the BBQ should be allowed to cool down completely while still keeping children and pets away from the area.
• Safe Food Handling: All meats should be thoroughly cooked, especially in cooler weather when cooking times may vary. A meat thermometer can be used to check internal temperatures.
• Prepare for the Elements: Plenty of water and sun cream should be available for guests to keep everyone hydrated and protected from the sun. Citronella candles can be placed around the outdoor area to ward off pesky bugs while adding to the evening’s ambiance.

3. Experiment with Different BBQ Accessories

“A BBQ doesn’t have to be limited to just burgers and sausages. The right accessories can elevate the BBQ experience and expand the menu,” says Augustin. Whether using a Flammkraft grill or another brand, the following accessories can enhance the BBQ:

• Rotisseries for Perfect Roasts: A rotisserie attachment is perfect for slow-roasting meats like chicken or lamb, resulting in tender, juicy dishes that will impress guests.
• Griddle Plates for Versatility: Griddle plates like the Flammkraft Teppanyaki allow for the cooking of everything from pancakes to seafood, making the BBQ a versatile cooking station. They’re ideal for breakfast BBQs or adding variety to meals.
• Pizza Stones for Alfresco Pizzas: If the BBQ has the option, using a pizza stone can bake crispy, delicious pizzas outdoors. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a fun alternative to traditional BBQ fare.
• Smoking Boards for Extra Flavour: Adding depth to dishes with a smoking board is a great way to enhance the meal. Ideal for fish, meats, and even vegetables, smoking boards infuse food with rich, smoky flavours that will set the BBQ apart.

These accessories not only add variety to the BBQ but also help create a memorable culinary experience for guests.

4. Elevate the BBQ Experience with Flammkraft

“For those looking to take their BBQing to the next level, investing in a top-quality grill is essential,” Knud Augustin advises. Flammkraft’s Block D (Gen.5) BBQ is designed to deliver exceptional results, whatever the weather:

• Built for All-Weather Cooking: Manufactured in Germany, the Block D (Gen.5) is crafted from durable, robust stainless steel with ceramic burners that achieve precise temperatures from 100˚C to 900˚C. Thanks to its stainless steel construction, it is easy to clean even after a rain-soaked BBQ.
• Innovative Design: The Block D (Gen.5) features a unique OfenDock BBQ oven concept with flippable grates and two stainless steel containers, creating a second cooking level for roasting or baking. It’s perfect for everything from low-and-slow cooking to direct grilling, ensuring that the BBQ is versatile enough to handle any type of cuisine.
• Stylish and Customisable: Available in seven colours, the Block D (Gen.5) not only complements any outdoor kitchen design but is also quick to heat up, making it perfect for those spontaneous BBQ sessions when the sun unexpectedly comes out. Its professional-grade features and exceptional build quality make it a standout choice for serious BBQ enthusiasts.

Flammkraft’s Block D (Gen.5) BBQ comes fully assembled and can be used as a freestanding barbecue or built-in for a luxurious outdoor kitchen. For more information about Flammkraft and all-weather grills, visit www.flammkraft.com.

MEN SHOULD NEVER BE SHIRTLESS IN SUMMER, UNLESS ON THE BEACH OR BY A POOL