Jimmy’s BBQ tips
Ready to up your grill game? Unlock Jimmy’s pro tips and secret hacks for the juiciest BBQ ever...
If you're looking, you're not cooking! This is one of the first things I say to the chefs that join Jimmy’s. Once the meat is down, close the lid. The BBQ will work as an oven, cooking the meat internally imparting lovely smokey flavours. Keeping the lid closed is going to control the temperature and allow a nice even cook.
Use good quality charcoal. I choose briquettes as they have a longer burn time. Charcoal is the ultimate form of wood - just don’t use too much of it. Quality charcoal burns at a high temperature over a long period of time and produces a good amount of heat for cooking. It’s what gives off that delicious smoke.
Flirt with the fire! If you want to leave a lasting impression on your guests and really add some extra smokiness to your food, then try something a little bit theatrical like tossing some hickory or cherry woodchips on the coal. Not only will it taste incredible, but it will leave a delicious scent in the air.
Don't rush it! Grill your proteins on a medium to high heat (200-300 degrees celsius) taking your time to get the perfect charred, smoky exterior, locking in flavour and juices.
Be bold with sauces! Experiment with spicy sriracha or a honey and chipotle glaze for extra flavour. This will add extra depth of flavour to your food. I like to brush a good quality sauce or glaze onto my meat right before it's ready. It gives a nice glossy finish.
Use a meat thermometer. It’s a great tool to ensure that you are not undercooking or overcooking your meats. Overcooking foods can change texture and disrupt the flavour. And you definitely don’t want undercooked meat. Using a meat thermometer gives you a clear idea on temperature to ensure you are getting the perfect cook, every time.
No BBQ is complete without some delicious sides. Adding some heat and a kick is always a winner for me. A great trick to this is to be confident to spice your veggies with some hot flavours. A gochujang paste, or chilli and coriander butter.
Make your own herb basting brush. Get a bunch of your favourite herbs together and wrap with twine or butchers string. Use the brush to splash your basting juices over your BBQ food of choice. You can leave the herbs on the grill once you're done basting too for maximum flavour.
Presentation is important. Plate up with pride. Add fresh herbs and a fresh home made dressing to your meal. Herbs and dressings help balance out the smoky flavours and look beautiful too.
Get your vibes right! Blend your Atmosphere with not just the perfect BBQ food. Make sure you pair it with the perfect drink too! Take your BBQ up a notch by serving a fun cocktail with fresh produce! Mojitos always win for me, with fresh mint!
Don't throw away your charcoal. Charcoal ash is actually a great soil amendment for gardens. The ash helps break up the soil, adding essential nutrients and minerals.
Don’t forget you can let us do all the hard work for you. Just make a reservation and enjoy our six-course tasting menu
