Never Mind the Weather: Why not BBQ in the Rain!

We’ve all been there. The weather app promised a sunny day, only for grey clouds to roll in and rain to begin just as we fired up the grill. As dedicated practitioners of the Great British BBQ tradition, we’ve learned to accept that the weather’s as changeable as a chef’s specials board. But does that mean we have to abandon our love for a good old barbecue when the weather turns? Absolutely not!

From sun to snow: adapting your British bbq strategy for any weather

Rainy days won’t dampen our grilling spirits. Discover tips for mastering the art of grilling in the rain and turning those raindrops into flavour enhancers. And when snow covers the ground, fear not! We’ll equip you with tricks to conquer the cold and create unforgettable winter BBQ feasts.

What about indoor grilling? Don’t let bad weather stop you from savouring that perfect char. Explore the secrets of indoor BBQs and wow your family and friends with mouthwatering cookouts right in your kitchen.

Whether you’re a rain-soaked grill master, a winter BBQ adventurer, or an indoor BBQ enthusiast, we have you covered –  both literally, with the protective embrace of a BBQ cover, and figuratively, with tips and inspiration to adapt your British BBQ strategy to any weather condition.

The Worst British BBQ Fear: Grilling in the Rain

Rainy days won’t dampen our grilling spirits. In fact, they present a golden opportunity to embrace the adventurous side of British BBQ and conquer the great challenge of grilling in the rain. Don’t let a little water falling from the sky discourage you from enjoying the smoky flavours and sizzling delights that define our beloved BBQ tradition. With a few tips and tricks up our sleeves, we’ll transform those raindrops into flavour enhancers, adding a touch of magic to your rainy-day grilling sessions.

1. Seek Shelter with a BBQ Shelter or Cover

To tackle the rain head-on, consider investing in a BBQ shelter or a sturdy BBQ cover. These protective guardians will shield your grill from the elements, allowing you to continue your grilling escapades without the fear of rain ruining your flame. Create your own little grilling oasis, rain or shine, and let the drizzle dance around you while you work your magic on the grill.

2. Harness the Power of Charcoal Briquettes

Grilling in the rain doesn’t mean compromising on flavour. In fact, the moisture in the air can infuse your dishes with a tantalising smoky richness. Make sure to use high-quality charcoal briquettes that can withstand damp conditions. The right charcoal briquettes will maintain a consistent heat, ensuring your meats are cooked to perfection while capturing that signature smoky essence that British BBQ enthusiasts adore.

3. Embrace Pre-Cooked Meat as Raindrop Revellers

When grilling in the rain, speed, and convenience become your allies. Consider incorporating pre-cooked meat into your rainy-day BBQ repertoire. These pre-cooked wonders, such as marinated chicken skewers or smoked sausages, can be quickly finished off on the grill, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the flavours and less time waiting for the meat to cook. 

The ultimate BBQ shelter and cover guide

Grilling in the rain can be an exhilarating experience. There’s something captivating about defying the elements and cooking up a storm while raindrops sizzle on the hot grill. However, to truly enjoy the adventure, it’s essential to have the right tools and protection. That’s where BBQ shelters and covers come into play, ensuring your grilling escapades remain undeterred by the whims of Mother Nature.

The Benefits of BBQ Covers and Shelters

• Weather Protection: Let’s face it; rain showers can put a damper on any BBQ party. But fear not! A BBQ cover is like a trusty raincoat for your grill, shielding it from the elements. It keeps your equipment dry and prevents rust or damage caused by rainwater. Don’t let a little drizzle ruin your grilling fun.
• Extended Grilling Time: A BBQ shelter takes weather protection to the next level. It creates a dedicated space where you can grill comfortably, rain, or shine. With a BBQ shelter, you can extend your grilling season, relishing the joys of outdoor cooking even when the skies are cloudy. No more hasty retreats indoors due to a passing shower.

Here are our top picks for BBQ covers and shelters to elevate your grilling experience:

• Grillman Premium BBQ Grill Cover: This affordable yet premium option comes in many different sizes and uses quality materials that will protect your BBQ from bad weather. With its sturdy construction, it offers reliable defence against rain, snow, and UV rays. Say goodbye to worries about leaving your grill exposed to the elements. The Grillman Premium BBQ Grill Cover has got you covered.
• Sunjoy Kent Steel Grill Gazebo: Get ready to enjoy grilling in a more comfortable and cool area with the Sunjoy Kent Steel Grill Gazebo. This BBQ shelter is designed to enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Its rust-resistant powder-coated steel structure ensures durability, while the 2-tier roof provides excellent ventilation to keep smoke at bay. With built-in shelves, hooks for grill utensils, and an attractive brown steel design, it combines both functionality and style. Assembly is a breeze with easy-to-follow instructions, and it even comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Embracing the Winter BBQ

And when snow covers the ground, fear not! We’ll equip you with tricks to conquer the cold and create unforgettable winter BBQ feasts. But before we dive into the culinary delights, let’s talk fashion, because dressing appropriately for grilling in the rain or cold is crucial. First, layer up! Think thermal base layers, cozy sweaters, and a trusty insulated jacket to keep you snug as you brave the chill. Don’t forget a hat to keep your head warm and gloves to protect those precious grilling hands. With the right attire, you’ll be ready to tackle the winter wonderland and bring the heat to your winter BBQ extravaganza.

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of grilling in the winter. First things first, make sure you have the right equipment. Once again we suggest you invest in a high-quality BBQ shelter or cover to shield your grill from the elements. This will not only protect your equipment from rain and snow but also help maintain consistent cooking temperatures. With a BBQ shelter, you can create a cozy grilling oasis even when the world outside is frosty. Next, let’s talk fuel. Charcoal briquettes are your best friends during winter BBQ sessions. They provide steady and long-lasting heat, ensuring your grill stays warm and ready to cook up a storm. Plus, the smoky aroma of charcoal-infused dishes will make your winter BBQ even more tantalising. If you want to save time and add convenience to your winter BBQ, consider incorporating pre-cooked meat into your menu. Pre-cooked ribs pulled pork, or smoked sausages can be easily warmed up on the grill, saving you cooking time and allowing you to spend more time enjoying the winter festivities with your friends and family.

But what if the weather outside is just too frightful? Fear not, for an indoor BBQ can be just as delightful! Transform your kitchen into a sizzling paradise with an indoor grill. Whether it’s an electric grill, a stovetop grill pan, or a countertop grill, the options are endless. You can still achieve that perfect char and mouthwatering smokiness, all while staying cozy and warm indoors.