Winter BBQ Recipes: Cosy and Delicious Grilling Ideas

As winter settles in, many might think it's time to pack away the BBQ, but true grilling enthusiasts know that the colder months bring a unique charm to outdoor cooking. In Melbourne, Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the smoky, hearty flavours of BBQ while cozying up with family and friends in your outdoor kitchen. Here are some winter BBQ recipes that will warm you up from the inside out.

1. Smoky BBQ Beef Brisket

Ingredients:

• 2kg beef brisket
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground black pepper
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

• Preheat your BBQ to a low heat (around 120°C).
• Rub the brisket with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt.
• Place the brisket on the BBQ and cook low and slow for about 4-6 hours, basting with beef stock occasionally.
• In the last hour, brush the brisket with BBQ sauce and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 90°C.
• Let the brisket rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
• Serve with grilled vegetables BBQ Sauce on the side.

2. Grilled Winter Vegetable Medley

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes, sliced
• 1 butternut pumpkin, cubed
• 2 red onions, quartered
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat your BBQ to medium-high heat.
• In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Grill the vegetables for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and charred.
• Serve hot as a side dish or a main course for a vegetarian option.

3. Lamb and Rosemary Skewers

Ingredients:

• 500g lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

• Preheat your BBQ to medium heat.
• In a bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Add the lamb cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Thread the lamb onto the skewers.
• Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your liking.
• Serve with a side of yogurt dipping sauce.

4. BBQ Spiced Apple and Pear Dessert

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, halved and cored
• 2 pears, halved and cored
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat your BBQ to medium heat.
• In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
• Brush the apple and pear halves with the butter mixture.
• Grill the fruit for about 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and caramelized.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Winter BBQ Success

Keep Warm: Dress in layers and keep a warm drink nearby to stay comfortable. Or invest in outdoor heating options to stay cosy.

Light It Up: Use plenty of outdoor lighting to make sure you can see what you're doing as it gets dark early in winter.

Stay Safe: Be mindful of fire safety, especially if it's windy. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand close by.

Winter BBQs in Melbourne can be a delightful experience with the right recipes and preparation. Enjoy these cosy, delicious dishes with your loved ones and make the most of the cooler season!