Looking for someone to BBQ

[AJAS]

Hello

I am hoping to have a big BBQ in September for a celebration and was looking for some recommendations of people who might be able to run the BBQ for me. I am planning on doing sausages, lamb burgers, spatchcock chicken and something for the vegetarians.

Thanks

Anita

[david_carnell]

How many people is this for?

If you contact the user Seabag on this forum he can probably put you in touch with professionals but it would be really expensive for a small number of people but they'd probably do their own food rather than your menu.

Otherwise, why not do it yourself - you're not doing anything that requires much supervision.

Do you know how to cook using the indirect heat method of your bbq?

Check out http://amazingribs.com/ for loads of helpful info. Seabag can sell you top notch sustainably sourced English hardwood charcoal too. Stay away from BigK - load of junk.

[cactus]

Depending upon the date, my brother in law is a chef and he may be able to help out.

I think it's a great idea to have someone else take charge, then you're free to enjoy the celebrations.

[AJAS]

Thank you, I think there will be between 80 - 100 people so I am not keen on doing it ourselves as I think it will be challenging. So any recommendations would be really appreciated.

[Nunheadfamily]

My brother in law does the best BBQs from the rear of a VW bettle! Check out his website.

http://www.smokingbeetle.com

[Seabag]

AJAS

You could consider buying in the main elements from a pro and doing the salad/buns and put together yourselves. I'm having a gathering at the end of August. I'm up for enjoying myself, not checking to see if there's enough sausages cooking or whether the lamb burgers are on fire (as they will be btw). So here's what i'll be doing

I know of one very competent street food trader (part of the Kerb collective) who's up there with the best in the low & slow style American BBQ. He'll sell you Boston Butts (whole shoulders of pork) for pulled pork. Also USDA Beef brisket and short ribs, plus his own recipe sauces. He also does Turkey and catfish too. He'll also guide you as how to serve the food, portion, presentation etc

The meat is rubbed and hot smoked for 8hrs plus over Oak. The flavours and technique are really good and authentic and it's unusual to be able to buy this in this way. In the USA it's how some of the real BBQ pit guys operate, so to get this here is quite unique. He's based in West Norwood and trades in the city and elsewhere (south-bank and Kings X)

I recommend a visit to try his food at one his venues, but get there as he opens, as he sells out fast

From my personal point of view, it's hard work getting and setting up food cooked from scratch, for that many people. I do it for larger groups at events, and even with support from professional kitchens, it's challenging.

From what you're describing menu wise, it's fairly off the cuff generic garden party BBQ fare. Chicken alone requires absolute spot on attention. Plus, by the time you get out to buy those items, you'll not be far off the cost of buying in, but without the headache

If i'm inviting lots of people, then I wan't them to have a really good experience while we're together, the food is key to that, it's something they'll remember

Drop me a pm if you're interested. I know others who might do a different event offer too