Our Go To Guide to BBQ Season

There is something wonderfully British about spotting a single ray of sunshine and declaring it BBQ weather. At River Cottage we fully support this approach. It could be ten degrees and windy but if the sky is blue then the grill is out.

Barbecuing is about more than cooking outside. It is about slowing down and sharing good food. And like everything we do, we believe it should be sustainable.

Sun Is Out. BBQ Is On

There is no perfect temperature for barbecuing. We have cooked in April frost and summer drizzle. If the weather looks remotely kind and you fancy something grilled, then go for it. It is certainly most popular in the warmer months, but we say cook whenever you feel like it. Take your time, manage your heat, and focus on flavour. That is where the real joy lies.

Make Your BBQ Tasty and Sustainable

Sustainability starts long before the food hits the grill. Choosing planet friendly fuel and ingredients makes a big difference to your impact.

Start With Sustainable Fuel

Charcoal is not all created equal. Choose FSC certified charcoal from UK woodlands or opt for compressed coconut shell briquettes. Avoid anything with chemical additives or lighting agents. Better still, try a wood fire in a cob oven or fire pit using offcuts and windfall wood from your own garden. You can even learn how to build your own cob oven right here at River Cottage.

Choose Ingredients With Care

Buy organic and local wherever you can. Seasonal veg, responsibly sourced meat, and good quality bread all go further and taste better. If you eat meat, choose a rare breed or free range from trusted local producers.

Buy Equipment That Lasts

You do not need fancy gadgets, but it is worth investing in tools that last.

Invest in Reusables

Ditch the single use plastics and stock up on reusable cutlery, enamel plates, and cloth napkins. A good pair of tongs, a wire brush, and a temperature probe will serve you for years. If you are catering for a crowd, borrow extras rather than buying disposables.

Look After What You Own

Give your grill a regular clean. Store it under cover. Sharpen your knives and oil your tools. These small habits mean you will not need to replace your kit every summer.

Temperature Over Time

If there is one tip we live by at River Cottage, it is this: cook to temperature, not time.

Why Internal Temperature Matters Most

Cooking meat is not about guessing or watching the clock. Every cut is different. To cook safely and properly, aim for the right internal temperature. Chicken should reach 74 degrees Celsius in the thickest part. Pork shoulder needs to go higher if you want it falling apart. Use a thermometer and trust the numbers.

Using a Temperature Probe

A simple probe thermometer makes a big difference. Insert it into the centre of the meat, avoiding any bones. Keep the lid down between checks. Let the heat do its thing. Do not rush it. Patience is everything.

Understanding Heat Zones

Control is the secret to great barbecuing. A two zone grill setup gives you options.

Direct and Indirect Heat

Use the direct side for searing and the indirect side for slow cooking. This lets you brown meat fast then move it away from the flames to finish gently. Think of it like turning your oven down halfway through roasting.

Charcoal Versus Gas

Both can be used well. Charcoal offers depth of flavour and feels like a ritual. Gas gives you precision and speed. Either way, look for energy efficient models and always cook with the lid on to retain heat and save fuel.

BBQ Food Worth Talking About

A great BBQ is all about good produce, simple cooking and generous sharing. These are just a few ideas from us but we could talk BBQ all day.

Seasonal and Local Meats

Try a butterflied leg of lamb with herbs or whole mackerel with lemon and sea salt. Sausages from a local butcher or burgers made with organic beef will beat any supermarket option.

Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes

Charred vegetables, grilled tofu, and halloumi skewers are all brilliant. Try corn on the cob with smoked paprika butter or stuffed mushrooms with herbs and breadcrumbs. You can even grill lettuce if you have never tried it.

Fresh Sides and Breads

Potato salad with mustard and chives, garden leaves with a sharp dressing, and flatbreads cooked right on the grill bring everything together. Use up odds and ends from your fridge. BBQ sides are perfect for reducing food waste.

Save and Store Leftovers

Cool food quickly and pop it into containers. Label them and use them up in the week ahead. Cold BBQ chicken in a salad or a leftover burger in a bun makes lunch a treat.

A River Cottage Approach to BBQ Season

Barbecuing should be joyful. It should be relaxed, delicious, and connected to the seasons. At River Cottage we believe that great food is good for people and the planet. With a little planning and care, your next BBQ can be both. Use what you have. Buy what matters. Cook slowly. Waste nothing. And always eat outside if you can.