Summer is here! Or was here for a hot minute? You never know with this crazy weather. But what it's worth, it's time to fire up the grill. Rain or shine, it's BBQ time!
At Cleverchefs, we understand the importance of keeping up with the latest food trends to provide exciting and diverse menu options. One such offering is our Chop Shop, an irresistible blend of BBQ meats, fresh salads, and sides.
Picture this: it is lunchtime, and you are starving. It has been one of those days that feel like a Monday on a Wednesday afternoon. Dragging, slow, tedious. Ah! But what is this? The aroma of slow-cooked goodness wafts through the room. The star of the show is none other than a tender, succulent brisket, lovingly prepared and expertly served for a mouthwatering midday meal.
As you approach the serving station, your senses come alive. The sight of the glistening, caramelized exterior beckons you closer, revealing the hours of meticulous cooking and dedication that have gone into creating this masterpiece. The deep, rich brown crust hints at the smoky flavours that lie within. The knife glides effortlessly through the tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Each mouthful is a symphony of flavours—a perfect balance of savoury and slightly sweet notes.
Accompanying the brisket, you find an array of delectable sides that complement and enhance its savoury goodness. A vibrant and crisp coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch, cutting through the meat's richness. The tangy acidity of a homemade barbecue sauce adds a zing that amplifies the overall experience.
Your day is saved! Faith in humanity is restored. Your belly is full. And you are happy to continue the rest of the day. That is the Cleverchefs Chop Shop experience - available at selected sites but expanding rapidly.
But enough about us. Let's talk about BBQ trends you can use right now in your backyard.
Asian-Inspired Barbecue: The popularity of Korean, Thai, and Japanese cuisines has influenced BBQ enthusiasts to experiment with bold and vibrant flavours. Think marinated meats infused with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and spicy gochujang sauce, creating a unique fusion of East-meets-West.
Plant-Based Barbecue: As the demand for plant-based options continues to rise, BBQ enthusiasts in the UK are embracing innovative techniques to create delicious meat alternatives. From smoky tofu skewers to jackfruit "pulled pork" sandwiches, there's no shortage of creative plant-based BBQ dishes to satisfy vegetarians and meat lovers.
British Heritage Meets BBQ: Traditional British ingredients are being given a smoky twist, showcasing the country's heritage, such as grilled lamb chops with a mint and rosemary glaze or barbecued fish and seafood served with zesty lemon and herb butter are becoming increasingly popular.
Inspo from the other side of the pond
Across the Atlantic, the United States takes the lead when it comes to BBQs, so understandably, the UK always has an eye on the meat on the other side.
Go Regional: From tangy and tomato-based Kansas City-style ribs to the vinegar-based Carolina pulled pork, each region offers a distinct flavour profile and cooking technique that reflects its unique culinary traditions.
Cook-at-home Texas fried pickles: pickles lightly coated in a mixture of flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper and buttermilk, then deep fried until golden and crispy.
Fusion BBQ: The melting pot of American cuisine has paved the way for innovative fusion BBQ creations. Think Tex-Mex flavours infused with smoky meats, such as brisket tacos with a chipotle BBQ sauce or BBQ pulled pork sliders topped with spicy coleslaw and pickled jalapeños.
Cook-at-home BBQ Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with succulent brisket or pulled pork, and top them with fresh salsa, tangy BBQ sauce, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious BBQ twist on a Mexican favourite.
Fruity, mate: Grilling isn't just limited to meats. Fruits and vegetables are taking centre stage at BBQ gatherings. Grilled watermelon with a sprinkle of sea salt, charred corn on the cob slathered in lime butter, or fire-roasted bell peppers for vibrant salads are just a few ways to elevate your BBQ experience.
Cook-at-home Skewers: Thread juicy chunks of pineapple, watermelon, and peaches onto skewers and lightly grill until they caramelize. Serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and a drizzle of honey for a yummy and light summer dessert.
Happy grilling!
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