Barbecuing: A Quintessential American Tradition

 Next to baseball, nothing says summer like the sizzling sounds, enticing aromas, and mouth-watering flavours of barbecue. In fact, according to a survey commissioned and conducted by American food and retail companies, 90 per cent of respondents agree that barbecues make them think of summer.

Where does America barbecue? According to the survey, 89 per cent prefer to hold family barbecues in their backyards, compared with 3 per cent who prefer a public park or picnic area. Barbecues are a great way to bring the family together, entertain friends and family and enjoy the summer nights-right in the backyard!

A few simple tips can make your next grill-out even easier:

1. Marinating musts: Marinating meat adds flavour and tenderization before cooking. Every marinade should contain an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar or wine; an oil, such as olive or canola; and seasonings, such as herbs and spices.

2. Barbecue in bulk: Got leftovers? No problem. Barbecue meals freeze well and often become more flavorful when the sauce and spices are reheated at a later date. Once you have fired up the grill, cook as much as your pit can handle since your food will maintain its flavour for future meals. Then thaw, reheat and just add the sauce for a delicious leftover treat.

3. Fire up a fast-cooking feast: To spend more time with guests instead of the grill, choose a pre-cooked variety of barbecue meat, or barbeque fully cooked ribs, which cuts the cooking time to less than five minutes. Just heat and eat!

4. Deck out your deck: Minimal meal preparation time gives you a chance to focus on the details. To make your barbecue spectacular, set the mood by hanging lanterns around the yard, blending a signature summertime cocktail and presenting the meal on brightly coloured plates.

Now that the days are long and school is out, it's easy to step outside and cook dinner on the grill. A relaxing backyard barbecue dinner will melt the stress of the workday away. Your family will love the meal, and you'll love the convenience.

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