Throw the perfect winter grilling party

• Convenience: If you want a hassle-free grilling experience and want to get food on the plate faster, then electric or gas units are the way to go. They heat up quickly and are as easy to operate as a general cooking appliance. Charcoal grills take a little more time and effort, from getting the fire started to literally fanning the flames and getting them to the right temperature. If you have the luxury of time, charcoal is great.
  
  
• Flavour and Taste: We love barbecue because of the distinct smokey flavour it imparts to meat and veg. That is something you can only get with a good old charcoal barbecue. The science is simple: wood is what gives meat a smokey taste when grilled, and charcoal is a form of wood. If you are grilling hot dogs, kebabs or burgers, an electric or gas grill works just fine. But if you are slow roasting meat or want your food to have a deep smokey flavour, then use charcoal.
  
  
• Size: The size of your balcony also determines what grill to choose. If you have a small covered balcony, then a compact electric grill may work best, since electric grills don’t produce flare-ups, emit less smoke, and are generally safer in small spaces.  If you have a roomier balcony or an outdoor space that is uncovered or open, then you can use charcoal grills and large-sized grills, since they won’t smoke up the space as much.

The Vibe Makes All the Difference!

Even with a grill burning, it can still get pretty cold on the balcony. So, make sure you have some additional heat and light sources. Portable LED lanterns, candles, and votives can be used for extra light. Comfy floor cushions and rugs can create help create a cozy vibe. Throw in some warm cocktails and hot chocolate and you’re all set to enjoy the crisp winter air!

MENU MUST-HAVES BY CHEF SHILARNA (CHINU) VAZE

Speaking of hot chocolate, be sure to keep your guests satisfied with plenty of good food! That’s the whole point of a barbecue, after all. We spoke to the hostess with the mostest and author of the cookbook Party Like a Star, Chef Chinu Vaze, for her tips on how to host a stress-free barbecue.

Beautiful Homes: Hey Chinu! Thanks for speaking to us. First off, what should people keep in mind when grilling especially if they are a newbie?

Chinu Vaze: Clean your barbecue!! And oil it well! Fat is your friend. I have a whole chapter on barbecues in my cookbook.

BH: How long should meat be marinated/how should the meat be prepared before grilling?

CV: More marination, more flavour! Couple of hours at least is good. Also, remember not to put very sweet things like honey or sugar as they can burn on a barbie.

BH: What are your suggestions for vegetarian and vegan-friendly grilling foods?

CV: Wrapping veggies up in foil with some yummy spiced butter or pesto or Asian marinades is my favourite way to use veggies on the bbq

BH: What is your top tip to host a fun and stress-free barbecue?

CV: Have some other hot and cold food so all the stress isn’t on the barbecue. And keep drinking cold beer!

Look for our picks of a barbecue and accessories below. Happy barbecuing!

•    Chefling One Time Use DIY BBQ Kit

•    Ikea Korpon Portable Barbecue

•    Wonderchef Smoky Grill Electric Barbecue

•    Weber Compact Kettle Charcoal Grill

•    Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill
 

•    Ikea Grilltider Silicone Barbecue Brush

•    Home Centre BBQ Grill Cleaning Brush

•    Home Centre Metal Barbecue Serving Platter

•    Weber Stainless Steel Barbecue Tools Set

•    Von Shef Raclette Grill Set