Summer barbecues are one of life’s simple pleasures and what better way to celebrate great Australian sunshine than sizzling up a storm with delicious produce, great company and a fantastic Aussie barbecue. This summer, why not add a sustainable eco-friendly twist and go natural and organic. Here are a few handy tips and tricks to help you prepare the best natural, delicious and nutritious barbecue.
When it comes to getting the best flavour and finest quality be sure to use the freshest certified organic ingredients. Not only are organic ingredients beneficial to your health but also for the environment, keeping harmful chemicals out of our soil, water and air, ensuring a healthy environment rich with nutrients.
The word "organic" refers to the way farmers process and grow agricultural products including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Organic food is grown to work with nature and without the use of artificial fertilisers and pesticides. How do you know if it is Organic or not? Organic certification is when an organic certifying group audits a business’ methods to ensure that they comply with strict national or international standards for organic farming and processing. Check the label, products labelled “Certified Organic” is 100% organic and in compliance with strict certification standards and ensures freshness and quality.
Here are a few handy tips to get your barbecue fired up and ready to go:
Vegetables
Everything tastes good on the barbecue, even vegetables. Most veggies are delicious on the barbecue, but here are some that really stand out when it comes to flavour: asparagus, corn, eggplant, mushrooms, capsicum, onions and cabbage. Before you start, make sure you thoroughly wash and slice your veggies into equal pieces for an even grill. Marinating or soaking the veggies in water for 30 minutes helps prevent them from drying up or sticking and for an added burst of flavour sprinkle some of your favourite fresh herbs. When the veggies can easily be pierced with a fork, it’s time to take them off.
Cook the perfect steakTake the steak out of the fridge 10 minutes before cooking, this helps prevent the meat from becoming tough, and lightly season with salt and pepper. The barbecue should be heated before you add the steaks to ensure tenderness and maximum flavour, the steak should sizzle as it is placed on the barbecue. Turn the steak only once, let it cook on one side until you see moisture start to appear on top and then flip. To test when your steaks are done simply use the back of your tongs and press the centre of the steak. If the steak is rare it will feel soft, medium will feel springy and well done will feel very firm. Be sure to rest the steaks and gently cover with foil for 2 to 4 minutes before serving.
Why choose organic? By purchasing and eating animal products raised on sustainable and organic farms you provide the healthiest choice for yourself, your family and the environment. Organic animal products are free from antibiotics, added hormones and GMO feed, instead these animals are allowed to graze freely and are fed organic feed. Studies have shown that organic meat is leaner which may help lower bad cholesterol levels, can contain 2 to 4 times the amount of essential Omega-3s and is also higher in vitamin E. Buying organic is better for your health, your family’s’ health and the entire community as a whole.
Safety First
If you are about to fire up that gas grill for the first time this year or if you haven’t had a chance to inspect it lately it pays off to check whether it is safe to use. Inspect all connections and hoses for cracking and leaks, and make sure there are no sharp bends in the tubing. If you find problems, don't use the barbecue.
Don’t put cooked food on a dish or surface that has had raw meat on it. Once you are finished with dishes and utensils used for raw meat, take them away and replace with clean ones and always wash your hands thoroughly after touching raw meat. Before you start grilling, be sure to stock up on and prepare the right tools, baskets, containers, trays and utensils to eliminate hassle.
There is every reason to fire up the barbie this Summer as long as you have a little time for preparation and can source the best organic fruit, vegetables and ingredients you will be able to enjoy a delicious home-cooked family meal.