If you’re looking to create this year’s Christmas dinner on the BBQ, we’ve got plenty of barbecue tips and recipes to get you inspired. There's nothing more Kiwi than a Christmas BBQ. Never mind a hot roast on Christmas day - our Kiwi summer holiday season is all about firing up the barbie and enjoying Christmas dinner in the sunshine. From a tender smoked pork shoulder to slow-cooked ribs to even a whole honey glazed ham, there are so many barbecue menu ideas to make your Christmas day special.
Looking for more Christmas inspiration? Check out the New World Christmas hub.
Looking for more great BBQ menu ideas? Check out our top tips and recipes at Boost your BBQ.
What kind of grill should I use?
These days, there are so many different types of grills and plenty of BBQ food to match!
Just a few of the types of grills that make delicious barbecue food include:
Charcoal grill
Covered charcoal grills use hot coals, making them an inexpensive way to create delicious smoky food. The tall lid of a covered grill enables you to smoke foods. Some of our favourite options to barbecue on the charcoal grill include Teriyaki salmon and vegetable kebabs and Barbecued Corn with Flavoured butters.
Gas grill
The gas grill is what most people think of when they think of the traditional Kiwi BBQ. They're the most popular type of outdoor grill, primarily for the convenience they provide for fast cooking. Since there are often multiple burners, you can create different heat zones for searing, cooking or warming foods on the grill. Perfect if you're grilling to serve a big group! You can prepare so many delicious meats and veggies on a gas grill, from ribs to crispy chicken nibbles to sausages!
Smoker
Charcoal grills can be used for smoking meat and vegetables but for those who love deep smoky flavour, a standalone smoker might be the best choice. A smoker will cook foods at low temperatures over longer periods of time, making them perfect for low and slow options like beef brisket, pork ribs, pork shoulder, chicken, turkey, duck, or even seafood like smoked salmon, oysters or shrimp. We love modifying this Marinated Beef Brisket dish and creating it in the slow cooker.
Electric grill
If you live in an apartment or just have limited space, an electric grill can be a great option. As these are usually the smallest grills, you'll be best to either choose just one barbecue dish for your Christmas BBQ, or prepare meats that can be grilled quickly so you can keep sending out new dishes.
Some of our favourite menu ideas for an electric grill are Grilled prawn and pineapple salad and these tasty Grilled chicken thighs with spicy Brazilian sauces - add your own favourite herbs and spices to the herb sauce like paprika, oregano, lemon pepper or cumin for extra flavour.
Looking to create the ultimate Christmas dinner? Check out our Summer BBQ Christmas Menu. We've got everything you need to help you win in the kitchen - or on the BBQ!
What can I make on the BBQ for Christmas dinner?
So, let's answer the big question - what recipes can be barbecued? The good news is that your options are endless! There are all of the traditional options that the kids will love - like sausages in bread and chicken wings.
But if you're looking for some options to make Christmas just that little bit more special for hungry guests, we have some delicious recipes ready to be served! We guarantee these will fly off the table.
Chicken and poultry
Beef, lamb and pork
Vegetables and fruit