Whether it's 'BBQ', 'braai' or 'barbie', everyone has an affectionate name for this ancient method of cooking
There's something about grilling food over an open fire that inspires passions across the world and when the weather’s warm it's hard to avoid the unmistakably smoky aroma of someone cooking al fresco.
Barring rain, the May bank holiday gives us the first long weekend in warm weather, so it's time to scrub the grill, prepare your favourite marinades and get out the novelty apron.
4Food suggests there's been a barbecue renaissance over the past few years: no longer is partially incinerated meat washed down with warm lager acceptable. In fact, just like in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, Britain's humble barbecue has become distinctly gourmet.
Whether it's a disposable grill for a picnic in the park, or a bells and whistles gas-fired monster, there's a huge range to consider. Charcoal grills using briquettes is cheapest and considered more authentic by the purists, but there's also natural gas cookers which are easiest to clean and control; you might not taste the smoke, though.
Marinades are a great way of keeping meat tender and moist, particularly on charcoal barbecues. Try this south-east Asian honey, mustard and sesame marinade.
Outdoor foodie: barbecued asparagus
The southern United States is barbecue central, with centuries of tradition to impress even the most committed garden chef. Jamie came back from a trip to Texas inspired and created blackened barbequed pork fillets.
Wrapping food in tin foil is a great way to retain natural moisture and flavour. For those aiming for a slimmer summer, you’d be hard-pressed to find a healthier salmon or chicken barbecue option than basting them in herbs and lemon juice – sealed in a foil envelope and thrown on the grill.
Smoking food is probably as old as grilling and the versatile barbecue is perfect for a bit of slow cooking. Jamie shows us how with smoked beetroots nestled in rosemary sprigs. The sky's the limit.
Continue the outdoor theme by growing your own greens for terrific salads. Check out Jamie's growing guide for tips.
Your gathering doesn't have to consist of just beer and wine. Why not serve up some cocktails with Nigella Lawson's summery fresh green gimlet cocktail.
...and if the weather proves inclement, there's no reason why you can't entertain indoors. Try these great family-friendly dishes to wile away the day.
Creamy rich lasagne
Seared tuna with bean and olive salad
Blackberry and apple pie
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