BBQ trends 2020
The 2020 grilling season is well under way, after all it is regarded as something of a national pastime here. For all those who did manage to bid farewell to the season, they eagerly fire up the grill as soon as the year’s first warm rays of sunshine appear. But now it is more than just a matter of grilling a few sausages on a cooking grate. Some even conjure up an entire meal from the starter to dessert on the grill and for all those who are proud owners of a gas grill, this even replaces the cooker – at least in the summer, when they instead opt to cook on the grill. To make sure that you are not bored during this grill season, we have collected the most popular BBQ trends 2020 for you here!
Plank grilling – grilling on a piece of wood
Plank grilling is believed to have been created by Native Americans. This process entails the slow roasting of the goods to be grilled, which gives the dishes a special aroma, since they take on a hint of the flavour from the wood that was used.
Hardwoods are ideal for creating wooden planks, some of which include cherry, apple, alder, cedar, or beech, because they are not fast-burning and tend to smoke more. The wood should be as thick as a finger and must be untreated and free from resin. In addition, prior to use, it should be completely submerged in water for at least six hours – or the day before would be even better. When it is time to get started: Dry off the wooden plank, brush the top side with some olive oil, put the food on it and place it on the grill! The important thing is that the grill must have a hood so that it can be completely closed. This allows distribution of the smoky aroma within the cooking chamber, thus ensuring an even more intense taste.
Fire plates – grilling on a steel plate
Grilling without a cooking grate: Fire barrel, drum or grill – throw on the plate and let the fire do the rest! This new BBQ trend calls for sizzling everything that can be grilled on a fire plate. This plate is especially well equipped to handle those recipes calling for reducing the amount of fluid – such as sauces or alcohol – while grilling to add even more flavour to the food.
The plate can be made out of steel, stainless steel or cast iron. Steel is usually used, since it retains its shape, is cheaper than both of the other alternatives and, thanks to its smooth surface, is quicker and easier to clean. The fire plates are especially suitable for food that requires a short amount of time on the grill and for Mediterranean cuisine, but can also be readily used for preparing burgers and other hearty dishes.
For all those who do not have a fire barrel or who simply want to use their own grill: Now numerous manufacturers also offer fire plates that fit your grills.
Beefing – the dream of a perfect steak
The perfect steak is wonderfully crispy on the outside with its roast aromas, plus juicy and tender on the inside. So far, so good. However, ensuring that a steak is not transformed into a piece of rubber and is so perfect that it actually looks and smells as if it was straight out of a BBQ bible, is truly challenging. If it seems to be picture perfect at first, then it is usually completely well done. Perfectly cooked on the inside, often means that it is not crispy enough on the outside.
The secret to a perfect steak is the Beefer. The 800°C top-heat grill is gas-powered. All you have to do is organise the high-quality meat (or fish, poultry, vegetables – yes, even pizza is an option) and the Beefer does the rest. The heat only comes from above and the meat is placed on the grill grate and inserted in the Beefer. The degree of doneness is determined by the height at which it is inserted – the higher it is, the more rare the meat will be – the steak is also only flipped once, which already occurs after 30 to 45 seconds, depending on the overall thickness. This is the key to a delicious steak featuring an excellent taste, caramelised crust and tender core.
Fancy recipe variations
Why does it always have to be just a sausage with mustard or ketchup? Recipe variations are becoming increasingly daring and creative – even when it comes to grilling. So, why not give it a try – by immersing your steak in a coffee marinade or pimping your salads, side dishes or deserts with something special? You can find many delicious ideas such as grilled pork steaks with papaya salsa, strawberry mango salad with ham, and walnut dressing or mango ketchup in our recipes!
Has all this reading about food sparked your appetite? Are your ready to fire up your grill right away? Then go ahead and discover your own personal BBQ trends for 2020!
