How to Host an Australian-style BBQ with Aussie fizz!

Australian’s are often known by the stereotype of throwin’ shrimp on the barbie, but while they actually call it a ‘prawn’, it’s true Aussie’s certainly love a good barbecue.

With all that hot weather down under, who can blame them? It’s the perfect place to have a barbecue party and we could probably learn a thing or two from them here in the UK.

One thing many people don’t take advantage of however is their beautiful Australian sparkling wine, so we’ll be showing you where to find some for your Aussie-style barbecue party this summer. We may as well make the most of this warm weather!

Grill vs BBQ

Grilling and barbecuing are two different things: barbecuing is cooking the meat slowly over a long period of time, allowing the meat to become tender soak up the smoky flavours.

Grilling is cooking something fast at a higher temperature, mostly used for chicken, steaks or vegetables, rather than big chunks of meat. A charcoal barbecue will give you a more smokey flavour than a gas one, but either will work! Check out this list of affordable grills if you are thinking of getting one.

Which meat?

For an Australian-style barbecue, you have to go all out on on the meat. Select good cuts of red meat, such as lamb and beef. If you are able to get your hands on some, why not try something even more authentic such as kangaroo, crocodile or emu.

Don’t forget to season your meat before putting it on a barbecue over a low flame; for cutlets just add some sea salt and pepper, but marinate  most of the meat however you like, preferably over night.

Being surrounded by the sea, seafood such as fish and prawns are a great addition to a barbie. Marinate prawns over night in ginger, chili, salt and pepper before popping them onto skewers and grilling.

The classics are of course on the menu: grilled burgers, chicken and sausages will always go down a treat with some fried onions. Add some sides like cheese, potato salad, rice, corn on the cob and bread then you’ll have a great meal.

Most importantly, the wine!

For something a little different than the usual beers or Prosecco, try out some gorgeous Australian sparkling wine.

Australia is home to an amazing array of diverse climates. Many of Australia’s best sparkling wines are made in Tasmania or contain substantial components that have been sourced there. The majority of sparkling wine is made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

The UK is the largest export market for Australian sparkling wine, accounting for a third of all Australian sparkling wine exports! Here’s some you can find in shops or online:

Sparkling wine

• Grant Burge Methode Traditionelle NV – Online, £22.47
• Yellowtail Sparkling Brut NV – Asda, £9.25 (case)
• Jansz Premium Rosé NV – Online, 14.95

• Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé NV – Waitrose, £13.99

Sparkling Shiraz – An Australian specialty, sparkling red wine which goes great with meat

• Leasingham Classic Clare Sparkling Shiraz 1997 – Majestic, £10.49 
• Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Shiraz NV – Waitrose, £9.99
• Wyndham Estate Bin 555 Sparkling Shiraz –  Online, £11.59

… Now just put some footy on the telly and you’ve got yourself an authentic Aussie barbecue party!