Aussie winter barbecue
Just because the temperature dips doesn’t mean you have to holster the tongs too. Truth is, winter barbecue means less pesky mozzies and you get to huddle around a cozy fire.
Take a chill pill:
Let's face it, we don't really get a miserable winter here, especially as you start going to Northern Australia. Compared to some parts of the world our coldest day may as well be a brisk summer.
With this realization, you don't really have an excuse to not hit the grill or smoker, there's a beauty in the warmth from the grill that's hard to beat.
Seasonal Ingredients
Winter is the perfect season for hearty root veggies, citrus-marinated meats, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. From a soulful smokey pumpkin soup to a charred pear and cinnamon dessert there’s a whole heap of winter warmer meals for the cooler season.
Stews and Soups
Let's embrace those hearty warmers like baked beans, Brunswick stews and pumpkin soups. we are often faced with weather to warm to enjoys these warming delights and it can certainly be refreshing to have something new to cook other then brisket, pullet pork etc. Not only are these meals often delicious they can also be a great way to use up leftovers.
How about some cold smoking
Take the opportunity to work on some cold smoking as for most of the year this can be a battle with even the slight of warm weather. Cheeses are the first thing I. gravitate towards but there are other options such as nuts, butter and garlic. Just keep an eye on it and keep those temps between 15c - 25c. Use a tray of ice to help if those temps still get away form you.
Winter Barbecue Essentials
Stock up on a little extra charcoal, you will burn through more than usual, especially if you try and maintain those higher temperature cooks. If you are using a water pan, you may want to skip it as it may do too good a job of soaking up that excess heat. Last of all, you want some warm mittens so you don't get cold holding a beer! Or maybe go for a whiskey to warm you up.
Conclusion
The best part about barbecuing through the winter months welcoming those hearty meals like stews and soups. This provides a great contrast to the repetitive heavyweight meats like brisket.