These are the BBQ essentials your toolkit can't do without

Yes, it's really true. Good BBQ gear really makes the difference. With the right barbecue equipment and a bit of preparation, you'll put a top-notch meal on the table without any fuss. In this article we check out the real essentials and show you how an outdoor kitchen completes that wonderful, relaxed outdoor feeling.

Why good BBQ equipment is essential

Good preparation is half the battle (sorry for the cliché), and that certainly applies to barbecuing. You don't want to discover mid-grill that your tongs sink into the meat or that you've only just run out of charcoal.

With the right BBQ equipment you avoid stress and enjoy yourself more.

• Efficiency and speed while grilling
• More safety at high temperatures
• Better flavour and cooking of your dishes
• A relaxed atmosphere: you've got everything under control

The ultimate checklist: essential BBQ equipment

Grilling tools

Without decent tools you're nowhere. Think of: long tongs, a spatula, a fork, a basting brush and heat-resistant gloves. Don't go for the cheapest tools, as buying cheap often means buying twice. Invest in stainless steel tools that are durable and easy to clean.

BBQ thermometer

Guessing is a thing of the past. With a core thermometer you know for sure that your meat is perfectly cooked. There are, of course, a few things to look out for. 

Think about the type of thermometer. Will you go for a quick instant-read or would you rather have a wireless version?

It's important that it measures super accurately (ideally with only a degree of margin) and shows your result within 2–3 seconds.

Also handy: a thermometer that can take a knock, is heat-resistant and has a display you can read easily, even in the sun. With wireless models, a range of at least 30 metres is rather nice.

And want to make things really easy for yourself? Then go for extras such as an alarm, a Bluetooth connection or multiple probes. Suddenly barbecuing feels a lot more relaxed and worthy of a pro.

Barbecue in an outdoor kitchen

Getting the right BBQ for your outdoor kitchen? Really super important. First check how much space you have, what your way of cooking is and which type of fuel suits you. Will you go for that classic charcoal flavour, the convenience of gas, or do you just want to get going quickly with electric?

If you choose a built-in BBQ, you can't go wrong: sleek looks and ultimate ease of use during your outdoor cooking sessions. The outdoor kitchen with Kamado is certainly our favourite!

Lighters and briquettes/charcoal

Charcoal is pure charred wood and burns quickly and hot, ideal for short, intense sessions such as grilling steaks. You'll have high temperatures within 15 minutes. Charcoal often gives a lovely, natural smoky flavour.

Briquettes are pressed blocks of charcoal residue, mixed with starch as a binder. They take longer to get hot, but keep glowing at a constant temperature for much longer. Perfect for longer cooking such as pulled pork or large cuts of meat.

Pro tip: use a chimney starter for quick and safe lighting.

Chopping boards and knives

You prepare like a pro with a sharp set of knives and separate chopping boards for meat, vegetables and fish. Hygienic and handy.

Tips for chopping boards

• Use several boards: one for raw meat, one for vegetables and bread.
• Choose plastic for hygiene or wood for presentation and to keep your knives sharp.
• Put a damp cloth under the board to stop it sliding.
• Use a large size for plenty of workspace.

Tips for knives

• Invest in quality: choose stainless steel or Japanese steel.
• Keep knives sharp with a honing steel or knife sharpener.
• Choose knives with an ergonomic grip for comfortable use.
• Use a separate boning knife for precise cuts.

Aluminium trays and foil

Essential for indirect grilling, keeping dishes warm or catching juices. Also ideal when making pulled pork or cooked vegetables.

Cleaning equipment

A clean grill gives better flavours and prevents food sticking at your next session. Use a good brush (preferably brass or plastic rather than steel, so you don't damage your grill), a sturdy scraper to remove stubborn residue and, if you like, a cleaning spray for a thorough refresh. Clean it while the grill is still warm; it's a lot easier that way.

Outdoor kitchen: every BBQ lover's dream

Just imagine: no more hassle with pans, herbs and plates that you have to keep carrying back and forth. Everything you need is right there, within easy reach. That's the convenience of an outdoor kitchen. And believe us: if you love barbecuing even a little bit, you'll really want one.

Extra accessories that take your barbecue experience to the next level

• Smoker box or smoking planks: for that delicious smoky flavour
• Pizza oven insert: turn your BBQ into a stone oven
• Rotisserie spit: perfect for spit-roast chicken
• Grill basket for vegetables: no more bits falling through the grill

Common BBQ mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Starting too early: give your BBQ time to come up to temperature
• Too much on the grill at once: this drastically lowers the temperature
• Not using a lid: you lose heat and control
• Cutting meat straight after cooking: always let it rest for a while

Tips for a well-organised BBQ

• Make sure you have a cool drinks table (cool box or mini fridge)
• Lay the table in advance: napkins, plates and sauces within easy reach
• Use timers for different dishes
• Keep a separate pair of tongs for raw meat

Barbecuing doesn't have to be difficult at all, but with a bit of good preparation it becomes real fun. The right BBQ gear really makes the difference between rushing around stressed and simply relaxing and enjoying yourself.

Whether you have a simple Weber at the back of the garden or a complete outdoor kitchen with all the bells and whistles: with this checklist you're completely ready to grill.