Must Have BBQ Accessories for your Outdoor Kitchen

Every outdoor kitchen should be equipped with BBQ accesories. Here are our top five must haves for your outdoor kitchen...

Barbecue Tool Set

If it's one thing an outdoor kitchen can't go without it's a barbecue tool set! The price range can vary between AU $12 to AU $200. A basic grill master set usually has tongs, a spatula and fork. A deluxe barbecue tool set can contain up to 24 utensils including a bottle opener, basting brush, skewers and a grill brush. Stainless steel is a recommended material for a set but they do also come in aluminium.

BBQ Grill/Cooking Thermometer

For perfectly cooked steak we recommend a thermometer. The doneness of the meat all comes down to internal temperature. So use a thermometer to ensure you're not over or under cooking your meat. You can buy digital thermometers or leave in oven proof thermometers. When your meat is done the internal temperature of the meat will be:

• Rare 60ºC
• Medium rare 60-65ºC
• Medium 65-70ºC
• Medium well done 70ºC
• Well done 75ºC

BBQ Firelighter

Whether you're using it for lighting a fire, your BBQ or candles, a firelighter is a very handy accessory to have in your outdoor area. Long stem lighters are generally safer to use as you keep a safe distance from the flame. These lighters are refillable and can be bought for as little as AU $3, however we suggest spending a bit more for a quality lighter that'll last.

BBQ Pizza Kit

The alternative BBQ. Grilling pizza is a popular barbecuing alternative. These are usually pretty low in  cost and typically consist of a pizza spatula, pizza wheel cutter and a pizza rack.

 

Non-stick BBQ Grill Mat

These aren't for everyone, but if you're looking to protect your BBQ these non-stick BBQ grill mats are a great solution! Avoid scrubbing and scraping your barbie after a cook up and use these re-useable non-stick mats. Using these mats is also a healthier way to BBQ. The non-stick surface means you use less oil. They can also be used in the oven. 

Bench Seating for Your Outdoor Area

Bench seating has become increasingly popular as home planners look for better ways to create a more intimate feel for their outdoor areas. Here are some bench seating ideas and benefits that we love!

Hinge Top Benches

A great opportunity to create storage space you wouldn't have had otherwise! Hinge top benches work for clutter control as you can store toys, outdoor cushions and anything else that takes up space.

Make sure the lid is not too heavy! Hinge top benching usually is usually made from timber to keep the lid light, but this isn't the most durable option as the timber requires more maintenance that concrete for example.

Stand Alone Bench

If you prefer a chair and table set-up, a stand alone bench is still a good idea as an alternative or additional seating option. Having outdoor bench seating custom made also has its benefits.

Solid Bench Seating

A solid bench is usually made from a combination of stone or concrete with a timber finish. The main benefit of this type of bench is that it's low maintenance and very durable for outdoor areas.

Pool Seating

Bring your outdoor area together with movable pool side furniture. Benches made from durable materials, like polished concrete are advisable as its highly durable and water resistant (as opposed to a timber bench) Some home planners opt for built in pool side seating, but we reckon a movable bench is the way to go!

Of course if you prefer your bench seating to have a bit more of a rustic look - timber works too!

 Benches Around the Table

Benches tend to accommodate more people. They look good (especially in farm style kitchens or outdoor areas) and are preferred by families with kids. One of the downsides to bench seating is that there is no back support. Some people choose not to go for bench seating around tables for personal space reasons too... Ultimately, great for restaurants!

Kitchen Layouts - What's the Difference and Why Does it Matter?

G-Shape? Galley? One wall? What's the difference between these kitchen layouts and why does it matter? Here are some key points to know about the most popular kitchen layouts...

One-Wall Kitchens

• Suitable for smaller homes
• There is no working triangle concept with one-wall kitchens, the sink is usually installed between the fridge and oven
• Finding work space can be tricky, consider a pull out work space drawer for extra work space!
• This layout can work well in larger homes if you are looking for an open plan feel

Galley

• Very efficient for cooking
• This style was designed for tight spaces and is common for restaurant kitchens and bars
• Building material for cabinets, splashback and counters needs to be selected carefully; selecting materials that are light to create the illusion of space work well
• A galley kitchen is usually open on either side which can make for a busy kitchen!

U-Shape

• Common in medium sized apartments and suitable for 'one-man/woman cooks'
• The difference between galley and U-Shape is that the U-Shape is closed off at one of the ends which reduces chaotic foot traffic for busy house holds
• Home planners often opt for a fridge outside the 'U' so there is more storage space
• Pull out drawers are handy as a storage space solution!
• If the space is big enough a kitchen island increases your kitchen's interactivity

G-Shape

• For medium sized houses (can work in small homes but tends to look cramped)
• Kitchen bars are often added to G-Shape kitchens which allows for interactivity or cooking collaboration in the kitchen
• A kitchen bar also doubles up as extra work space
• Suitable for families

L-Shape

• Common for outdoor kitchens
• One of the more popular lay out designs
• Suitable for medium or small homes
• Perfect for the working triangle
• Can have multiple entry and exit points as it's open both ends
•  Good option if you are looking to make use of corner space

3 Must Try Winter Wine Recipes

Using wine in food adds a rich and distinct flavour. Red wine is great for stews, meats and sauces. White is perfect for pasta, sauces and broths. Here are our top 3 must try winter wine recipes to try in your kitchen...

1. Angel Chicken Pasta (white wine)

Shopping List

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 (20 grams) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 (305 grams) can condensed golden mushroom soup
• 15 grams of cream cheese with chives
• 1 large pkt of angel hair pasta

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 165 degrees C.

2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in the package of dressing mix. Blend in wine and golden mushroom soup. Mix in cream cheese, and stir until smooth. Heat through, but do not boil. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer in a 23x33 cm baking dish. Pour sauce over.

3. Bake for 60 minutes in the preheated oven. Twenty minutes before the chicken is done, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 5 minutes. Drain. Serve chicken and sauce over pasta.

2. Balsamic Glazed Salmon (white wine)

Shopping List

• 6 salmon fillets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon white wine
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees C. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, and spray with non-stick cooking spray.

2. Coat a small saucepan with non-stick cooking spray. Over medium heat, cook and stir garlic until soft, about 3 minutes. Mix in white wine, honey, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper. Simmer, uncovered, for about 3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

3. Arrange salmon fillets on foil-lined baking sheet. Brush fillets with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with oregano.

4. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until flesh flakes easily with a fork. Brush fillets with remaining glaze, and season with salt and pepper. Use a spatula to transfer fillets to serving platter, leaving the skin behind on the foil.

3. Red Wine and Chocolate Tart (red wine)

Shopping List

• 300g pkt Careme dark chocolate shortcrust pastry (see note)
• 2 eggs
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornflour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cocoa, plus extra to dust
• 1 cup (250ml) fruity red wine (such as merlot)
• 300ml thickened cream

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C.

2. Roll out the pastry so it’s large enough to line a 22cm loose-bottomed tart pan. Chill for 15 minutes.

3. Line the pastry with baking paper and fill with pastry weights or uncooked rice. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove paper and weights and bake for a further 5 minutes until dry. Allow to cool slightly.

4. Place eggs and sugar in a bowl and sift in the cornflour, cinnamon and cocoa. Gently whisk together until combined, but not frothy. Add the wine and 200ml cream, and stir well until combined. Pour into the tart case, then bake for 20-25 minutes until just set. Cool slightly.

5. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 100ml cream to soft peaks.

6. Dust the tart with cocoa, then slice and serve with the whipped cream.

Do you have a favourite wine recipe? Share it in the comments below!

Adelaide Outdoor Kitchens does not own any of these recipes.

Gas For Your BBQ: LPG vs Natural Gas

Choosing the right gas for your BBQ is important. LPG and natural gas are used in various appliances within Aussie homes, but what's the difference?

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or bottled gas is propane whereas natural gas is methane. Although there are many scientific differences between the two, the main difference you need to know is that LPG is supplied in a bottle or tank and natural gas isn't!

Natural Gas

This comes from your local utility company . This would be the gas you use for your cooker or boiler for example. Having a natural gas source for your barbecue would simply mean you'd need a pipe directing the gas to your outdoor area or barbecue. One of the downsides to natural gas is that once it's installed it's difficult to move.

Some of the benefits of natural gas:

• affordable
• produces less emissions
• never runs out!

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

LPG gas comes in a bottle or tank. The main benefit of this is that, unlike natural gas, it can be moved around. Fittings and hoses for these bottles do differ, so we recommend you ensure you're buying the right hose from your supplier to fit your tank or bottle.

Some benefits of LPG:

• the bottle or tank is movable
• it doesn't pollute the ground or water sources
• its octane rating enables it to mix better with air

Heat Temperature

LPG has a higher flame temperature than natural gas, however this shouldn't affect your decision when it comes to picking the right gas for your barbie. The temperature for both these gas types will get the job done!

Cost

As we've already mentioned, natural gas tends to be more affordable than LPG, particularity if you use your gas frequently. If you don't use gas too often then the choosing LPG is okay.

Want to find out more about our barbecue installations? Get in touch here

Fondue Party Ideas

With winter pretty much in full swing we bet you're looking for some cosy dinner party ideas. Throwing a fondue party is super easy. It's also really versatile and different. And let's face it who would say no to dipping food in melted cheese and/or chocolate! Here are some fondue party ideas...

The Pot

Fondue sets and pots come in all styles and designs. They come in a range in prices as well so you can choose whether you want something simple and cost effective or a bit more fancy.

Swiss Cheese Fondue

Of all the types of fondues out there Swiss fondue is the way to go. Swiss cheese is rich and creamy and melts really well. Udder Delights is a local business who makes delicious home made cheeses perfect for fondues.

Meat or Broth Fondues

Meat fondues are a bit lighter than a cheese fondue. Here's a recipe for a meat broth fondue.

Beer Fondues

Yep! You can even make a beer flavoured cheese fondue. Check out this recipe - craft beer cheese fondue.

Dippers

There are no rules when it comes to picking food to dip in the fondue. Some of our favourites are:

• Broccoli
• Bread
• Meat
• Cauliflower
• Mushrooms
• Baby potatoes
• Carrots

Chocolate Fondue

There's always room for the chocolate fondue! All you need to do is melt some cream and chocolate in the bowl or pot, heat it up slowly and you're done! Good dippers for chocolate fondue:

• Strawberries
• Marshmallows
• Biscuits
• Waffles

Preparation Tips

• Don't let the fondue boil over
• Cut the dippers into bite size pieces
• Use the right liquids: beers, wine and cream (not water)
• Throw away bamboo skewers are a good idea in case guests want a fresh utensil to use
• Serve the meat on a separate plate to the rest of the dippers

Check out this fondue party planner for more details on how to throw a fondue party in your home!

Picking the Right Kitchen Sink

Finding a kitchen sink is easy. Finding a kitchen sink that's designed for the way you like to do dishes - not so easy. Here are some tips to help you pick the right sink for your kitchen...

Size

It's annoying trying to wash large oven pans and trays in a small sink. If you are low on space and can't afford to have a large sink, opting for a small one is fair enough but if you have the space, a decent large sink is the way to go! Think about your largest cooking tray and use that as a measurement guide.

Double Sinks

Double sinks are great for washing and rinsing so you aren't left with soapy dishes, but if you don't have the space single sinks will do the job. Consider getting a spray tap for rinsing. They are really handy for rinsing dishes and food as well!

Triple Sinks

This is a luxury but if you have the space three basin sinks are awesome for multi-tasking (washing, draining and rinsing)

Shape

This comes down to personal preference. A round shaped sink is good for kitchen tasks but is not very practical for cleaning dishes (particularly if you are cleaning large rectangular pans and trays.) Generally we install rectangular sinks for this reason. They are also more space effective.

Material

Stainless steel sinks are the most popular. They're durable, easy to clean and look good in any kitchen! It may get scratched but scratches aren't as noticeable on stainless steel as what they are on white porcelain for example. It's  also much cheaper than porcelain, granite and marble.

Above or Below

Top mount or drop-in sinks are a good DIY option. They're  easy to install and cheap, however they aren't as sleek and stylish as some other sinks. Top mount sinks can also collect soap scum between the sink lip and counter.

Under mount sinks are mounted beneath the counter. They collect less scum and dirt than the top mount sink and tend to look better too. They are a bit more costly to install as it needs to be glued to the counter.

Farmhouse sinks are specially designed so that the sink actually replaces part of the counter. They are generally quite deep and tend to look good in a more traditional style kitchen. Obviously installing a farmhouse kitchen is a lot more challenging than a top or bottom mount sink as it has to be fit to the counter.

Do you have any tips for picking the right kitchen sink? Leave a comment with your thoughts or ideas below!

Outdoor Kitchen Lighting Tips

When it comes to lighting for your outdoor area you need to think about more than just ambiance. Design, style, the right light for preparing food and bug control are just some of the things one needs to consider. We're here to help! Here are some outdoor kitchen lighting tips...

Task Lighting

A bright light above your preparation or task area is really important. White lighting with a low or high voltage is suitable, although high voltage lighting is better for a range of temperatures. You could go for a simple light fixture on the wall or under your cabinet. OR you can get stylish and choose from a selection of designer task lights, like this one...

Dimmers

We always recommend getting dimmer lighting. Dimmer switch lighting allows you to control the light intensity, which helps set the mood. They're also good for weather dependent lighting control.

Bug Control

Bugs are attracted to ultraviolet light so having a yellow LED bulb is a good option to keep bugs away! Yellow LED lighting also tends to emit less heat which keeps them away. We recommend yellow LED lighting rather than zapping the poor bugs away!

Quality Stainless Steel

We often hear stories from clients about how they splashed out on an awesome kitchen but then bought budget lighting. Stainless steel is a common material choice for outdoor lights but people don't always check the grade of the stainless steel , which means, soon enough they have rusty lights. Check the rating before buying stainless steel lights!

Rangehood/ Fan Lighting

Most rangehoods these days come with lighting. If it doesn't - rethink your decision and opt for one that does. The bulb options vary from LED to fluorescent, halogen and incandescent. They're all effective, but emit different heat temperatures. The colour, quality, lifespan and intensity also vary. Be sure to find out details from your lighting provider.

Ambiance Lighting

There are so many brilliant ambiance lighting ideas around. Candles, oil lamps, mason jars and fairy lights are just some options that are great for ambiance lighting. Fairy lights should come with a driver or transformer which brings down the voltage. Check that it does before you buy it.

Alternative Lighting

There are an increasing number of light styles and designs and a lot of them are DIY! Light fixtures made from buckets, egg crates and twigs are just some materials you can use to make a unique home made light for your outdoor kitchen. Check out these awesome DIY ideas.

 Be sure to check the IP rating to ensure your lights are safe!