Kiddipedia
The enjoyment and value of teaching kids and teens how to cook also should be extended to the brilliance of the barbecue.
Making sure that safety is paramount, children should get ensconced in the joy of barbecuing by understanding different techniques and preparation tips. As they continue to work on their skills, they will certainly fill their cup by spending quality family time experimenting and diving into the mouth-watering world of grilling.
Guiding and encouraging junior barbecue masters to enjoy the preparation side of barbecuing is paramount, but it is also important for them to understand about fire and how cooking over flame enhances the flavours of what they are creating.
As with all cuisines, barbecuing requires preparation, so it is important to guide your junior barbecue masters with the sort of prep work which needs to be done before you get stuck into the ‘fun fire’ part.
From marinating the meat, selecting and grinding the spice mix to choosing which Samba barbecue product to use for the grilling magic to happen, is all part of the grilling greatness process. From Samba’s natural firelighters to lump charcoal and smoking chips, have everything a ready so when it comes to the actual cooking, it becomes a joyful and seamless event.
When it comes to barbecuing, entrust your junior grilling chefs the creative license to peruse the internet and select recipes they would love to try out. Perhaps guide your budding barbecue masters to recipes that have a ‘never fail’ title to them such as beef satay skewers, mini lamb burgers or pork barbecue ribs. Working off simple recipes does not mean they are not delicious – quite the opposite. It is important to give the kids the confidence and gusto to enjoy the barbecue experience so they have the faith and support to do it again and again!
Also take the time to teach your juniors how meats are cooked, including teaching them the ‘Touch Test.’ By simply touching the meatiest part of your relaxed palm of your hand with your index finger, you can see what it feels like to push down on raw meat which has a springiness to it. Medium rare is similar to touching our index finger to your thumb, medium is your middle finger to your thumb, medium-well when you move your ring finger and thumb and finally, well done is putting your pinky and thumb.
By teaching your children the basics in barbecuing you are removing the initial fear of grilling and fire, you will reap the benefits by having very enthusiastic chefs at the barbecue meticulously creating meals for the family to enjoy (and where you can sit down and relax, enjoying the hospitality as a guest!)
