Summer is here. So girls, its time to really show the boys how its done. There's some skill involved in the perfect barbecue, but with a little help from Lovepork, you'll be a Grilling Goddess in no time.

Top tips for a brilliant barbecue
 

GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT

Much like us on a night out, BBQs take time getting ready. We know the boys love the 'throw it all on' approach, but if you start grilling too soon you'll have meat with a burnt outside and raw inside...not quite what we want to serve up! Coals should be grey to white and the usual guidelines are: Charcoal: 30min, disposable: 15min, gas: 10min.

KEEP IT CLEAN

You may have seen the guys using one cloth to wipe everything...but this is not a habit we want to get into! Keeping hands and utensils clean is especially important when handling meat, a bowl of soapy water nearby does the trick. And make sure you pop an apron on - messy stains are hardly a covetable accessory!
clean

THE PERFECT TEMPERATURE

Remember, frozen meat should be completely thawed and can't be refrozen. Keep it in an icy cool bag out of the sun until you're ready for it. Beware though; the boys may think it's for their drinks!
sausages

DON'T MIX N MATCH

Be sure to handle cooked and raw meat with different utensils in separate dishes. And always have a bowl of soapy water on hand to dip those tongs into.

A good way of keeping cooked meat warm (and away from hungry fingers!) is to pop it in the oven on a low heat until you're ready to serve. But not for too long, otherwise it may dry up.
clean

UNDIVIDED ATTENTION

We know us girls don't have a problem with multi-tasking, but once your meat is on the grill it's a good idea to take a tip from the guys and hand the hosting over to somebody else.
lollipop

SLOWLY DOES IT

We may not all enjoy our meat quite as 'well-done' as some male grillers serve it, so turning meat occasionally ensures it cooks evenly. Keep an eye on the colour and if it's browning too quickly, you can always move it to the side or up a shelf.
grill

DO THE POKE TEST

We know the guys prefer the 'taste test' but when your meat looks done give them a gentle prod, the juices will run clear when ready. Steaks and kebabs however, are best served straight away as they tend to dry out if left. If you prefer to be a little more exact, or you want to gazump the guys with a new gadget, use a meat thermometer - 70 °C or more and it's ready to serve!

The basic rule of thumb for BBQ'ing steaks and chops is:
total cooking time
for thick (2-3cm) 16-20min
for thin (1-2cm) 12-16min
and for burgers & sausages
about 10-12 mins for either thick burgers (3cm) or chunky sausages
about 8-10 mins for either thin burgers (1-2cm) or chipolatas

KEEP A HEALTHY BALANCE

Compliment your perfectly cooked meat with fresh salads, veggies and carbs for a well-balanced feast. The guys won't know what do to with themselves when they see your deliciously impressive spread!
platter

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