Though it may seem unusual at first, barbecuing in the cold weather is perfect for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The warmth of the grill and the scent of the food cooking can be especially comforting in the crisp winter air, and hosting a winter barbecue can encourage people to get outside and enjoy the scenery, making it a great way to combat cabin fever. So, if you’re wondering what you need to know about winter barbecues — including what to serve and how to keep warm — here StovesAreUs will share a few top tips.
What are the benefits?
Many of us enjoy a hot drink and a warm meal when the weather is cold, and there’s no better way to enjoy the contrast between these temperatures than eating outdoors. From baked potatoes on bonfire night to mulled wine at Christmas, many of our most festive traditions are enjoyed outside — so why should a barbecue be a summer-only event? Especially when gathered around a warming campfire or log burner, a winter barbecue can be a great excuse for a jolly gathering out of the house and be a fantastic way to make the most of the season.
As an added bonus, the food you serve will likely stay fresher for longer thanks to the colder temperatures — no more sun-spoilt mayo or flies in your picnic food.
Winter barbecues may not be the most traditional choice, but they are definitely the coolest trend to embrace and can be just as enjoyable as summer barbecues too. The crisp air, the cozy atmosphere, and the warmth of the grill create a one-of-a-kind experience that your guests will love, so don’t let the cold weather stop you from enjoying a barbecue — embrace it and make your winter barbecue the talk of the town.
What to serve
You’ll find that the best food to serve at a winter barbecue will be very different to what you’re used to eating in summer. Your main goals will be to serve warming, filling dishes and ensure your food stays as hot as possible, so it’s better to serve bigger items of food cooked slowly such as joints of meat rather than individual sausages and burgers, as these will retain heat better. Prepare stews, casseroles, and pies to be eaten family-style, not dished out in individual portions as these will cool more quickly. Serve your meals in high-sided bowls, pots with lids, and oven-safe dishes that can go straight from fire to table. All these hacks will allow you to conserve as much heat as possible and prevent serving a cold buffet to your guests.
Try to use lots of seasonal produce like pumpkins, sprouts, and mushrooms in your recipes to celebrate winter and set your barbecue apart from summer events. For example, you could eat foods traditionally eaten on Bonfire Night such as baked potatoes and toasted marshmallows, or even attempt a barbecued Christmas dinner. If you can, look for locally sourced produce as this is often fresher and of better quality. What’s more, you’ll be doing your bit for the planet by limiting the amount of food miles your barbecue requires.
One popular option is to serve up a hearty stew, filled with warming ingredients like root vegetables, beans, and tender cuts of meat. Another option is to roast seasonal vegetables, such as butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, directly on the grill for a smoky and flavourful side dish. For meat lovers, consider winter-inspired marinades like rosemary and garlic or cranberry and orange. These recipes will not only keep your guests warm and satisfied, but they will also add a touch of seasonal flair to your winter barbecue.
How to stay warm
Creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere is key to hosting a successful winter barbecue. One way to warm up your space is by using outdoor heaters strategically placed around the seating area. This will provide a source of warmth for your guests and keep them comfortable throughout the event. Another option is to set up a fire pit where guests can gather around and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire.
It’s imperative that your guests are encouraged to dress warmly when attending your winter barbecue, using items of clothing such as thermals, winter coats, hats, scarves, and gloves to their advantage against the cold weather. You should also consider providing plenty of wool blankets to snuggle under — not only are these warm, but they’re naturally flame-resistant too. Consider fitting canopies, windbreaks, or umbrellas in case the weather turns and your guests are subjected to wind, rain, or even snow, and serve plenty of hot drinks like mulled wine, cocoa (with or without Irish liqueur), and hot toddies.
Be sure to use a barbecue with a lid when preparing food for your winter barbecue, as a strong gust of wind could cause the coals or ashes to spill and become a fire hazard. You’ll find that lidded barbecues are better for low slow cooking anyway, which is recommended for the warming, filling dishes you’ll want to prepare for your al fresco dining experience. As with any barbecue, you should always use the proper tools and consider purchasing some barbecue gloves to protect yourself from the flames. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your winter barbecue is a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Entertainment ideas
In addition to delicious food, a winter barbecue can be made even more enjoyable with some fun activities or games. Consider setting up an ice-skating rink in your backyard or nearby park, where guests can glide across the ice and show off their skills. Another option is to organise a friendly snowball fight, providing guests with plenty of snowballs and a designated area for the battle. For those who prefer a more relaxed activity, set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings and flavours, allowing guests to customise their warm beverages. This will not only keep everyone entertained but also add a festive touch to the event.
Quote from StovesAreUs:
“We typically only get a few weeks of summer per year. So why limit your barbecue to just one season? Most charcoal and gas barbecues can safely be used all year round but be sure to use a lidded model during winter months for best results. With oven-to-tableware like cast iron pans and dishes, you can also utilise your kitchen oven to prepare even more delicious food.
“Encourage your guests to layer their clothing, starting with a warm base layer, followed by a cosy sweater or jacket, and topped off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This will help them stay insulated and protected from the cold. Additionally, consider providing blankets or warm drinks, such as hot cocoa or mulled wine, to keep your guests cozy throughout the event.
“Chimineas, fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and patio heaters are all designed to keep you warm no matter the weather, which is ideal for the British climate. So, be sure to add any of these additional heat sources to your barbecue set-up and your winter barbecue is sure to be the talk of the season.”
- Adam Oldfield, Director at StovesAreUs
