Imagine bringing the gastropub experience to your own garden with the flavours that only a charcoal BBQ can deliver. From perfectly grilled burgers to crispy buffalo wings, your charcoal BBQ can transform classic pub dishes into something truly spectacular.
Setting Up Your Charcoal BBQ for Pub-Style Success
Proper setup is crucial for charcoal BBQ success.
First, create two distinct temperature zones: a hot direct heat area for searing burgers and a cooler indirect zone for slower cooking items like wings. Put more charcoal on one side to create a greater heat.
Quality lump charcoal or hardwood briquettes work best for maintaining consistent heat throughout your cooking session.
You’ll also need long-handled tongs, a reliable meat thermometer, and grill baskets for smaller items. Having everything within arm’s reach makes a real difference.
The Ultimate Pub Burger
There’s just something about a perfectly grilled burger. Start with quality beef mince – a higher fat content is essential for the tastiest results. Form patties slightly larger than your buns, because they’ll shrink during cooking.
Season the meat generously with salt and pepper just before cooking. Place burgers over direct heat on your charcoal BBQ, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. Resist the urge to press down with your spatula, which squeezes out precious fats that give the burger all its flavour.
While the patties rest, toast your buns, cut-side down, on the cooler section of your charcoal BBQ. This adds a subtle smoky flavour that adds to the entire burger experience. Traditional toppings like crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and pickles work beautifully, and try gastropub additions like smoked bacon or a tasty cheddar.
Buffalo Wings That Rival the Best Pubs
Buffalo wings on a charcoal BBQ deliver tasty results that gas grills simply can’t match. Brine your wings for 2-4 hours in salted water for tender, juicy meat that won’t dry out during cooking.
Pat the wings completely dry and season with your favourite dry rub. The secret to crispy skin on a charcoal BBQ is using two temperature zones: start the wings over indirect heat for 20-25 minutes, then move to direct heat for the final 5-10 minutes to crisp the skin.
Once they’re cooked add classic buffalo sauce made from hot sauce, butter, and a splash of vinegar. The contrast between the smoky char from your charcoal BBQ and the tangy buffalo sauce creates pub-worthy wings every time.
BBQ Fish and Chips
A unique twist on a British classic. Choose firm white fish like cod or haddock, and brush lightly with oil before seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
Cook your fish over medium heat on your charcoal BBQ for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The key is gentle heat – too hot and the exterior burns before the interior cooks through.
For the chips, cut and parboil potatoes for 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly, then add oil and seasonings before placing in a grill basket over your charcoal BBQ. Turn frequently for even browning, cooking for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
Bangers and Mash
Sausages were made for a charcoal BBQ. Choose traditional varieties like Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages for authentic pub flavours.
Cook sausages for about 20 mins over medium indirect heat, turning regularly to ensure even browning. This prevents the casings from bursting and keeps your sausages juicy.
For a creative twist on mash, try smoking whole potatoes on your charcoal BBQ before mashing. Like with a jacket potato, wrap your potatoes in foil with butter and herbs, then place on the cooler side of your charcoal BBQ for 45-60 minutes until tender. Then mash.
Timing Your Feast
Managing multiple dishes on your charcoal BBQ requires planning. Start with items requiring longer cooking times, like wings or whole potatoes. Add sausages to the cooler zone while the wings finish crisping. Finally, cook burgers over direct heat while everything else stays warm on the indirect side.
This way everything finishes at the same time, creating the perfect pub dining experience in your garden.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a casual weekend gathering or celebrating a special occasion, these grilling techniques will help you create memorable meals that rival your favourite pub. The combination of traditional British flavours with the distinctive taste of charcoal grilling offers your guests the best of both worlds.
Start with these classics, then experiment with other pub favourites like grilled halloumi, BBQ pulled pork, or even outdoor Yorkshire puddings. Your BBQ opens up endless possibilities.
