Bbqing success

To coincide with National Barbecue Week (25-31 May), The Best of British BBQ Team have compiled some unusual tips to help guarantee bbqing success this summer.

Here are just a few tips devised by Captain Mathew Shropshall, Ben Bartlett and Viv Harvey to get bbqing this week:

Spray the meat with un-sweetened apple juice to keep it tender.  It also creates a delicious caramelised coating

Stop the skewers burning by soaking the sticks in water for 30 minutes beforehand

Create aromas by throwing a handful of herbs such as rosemary, lavender or thyme on the grill

Rubs made from herbs and spices such as cracked black pepper, paprika and garlic guarantee added intensity

Good quality spices and meat are essential.  Ask your butcher for advice

Ensure the food doesn't overcook – steak, burgers and chicken take 8-12 minutes. Seafish such as prawns takes no more than five minutes

Shropshall said:  "Whether you're planning ahead or the good weather encourages a last minute BBQ, our easy tips are great for avoiding common disasters such as burning the food while bringing the best out of the ingredients.

He continued: "As a team, we've always found that combining different herbs and spices is a great way to develop new flavours and add intensity to the BBQ."

Related Articles:

• 30 Jul 2010 - The Best of British BBQ Team get set for championship cook-off
• 27 May 2009 - Cook with care
• 15 May 2008 - Are you champion of the BBQ's?