Christmas Recipes for Your BBQ

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with some festive BBQ recipes? Whether you're hosting a Christmas dinner or a cosy gathering with loved ones, your barbecue can take centre stage this year. Forget the traditional kitchen oven and bring the magic of Christmas to your grill with these mouth-watering recipes. From succulent mains to sweet desserts, we’ve got you covered!

1. Barbecued Christmas Turkey with Herb Butter

Take your Christmas turkey to the next level by grilling it to perfection.

Ingredients:

  • Whole turkey (4-5kg)

  • Herb butter (softened butter mixed with rosemary, thyme, and garlic)

  • Salt and pepper

  • Lemon and onion (stuffed inside the turkey)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your barbecue to 180°C (indirect heat).

  2. Rub the herb butter generously under the turkey skin and all over the outside.

  3. Season with salt and pepper and stuff the cavity with lemon and onion.

  4. Place the turkey on the grill and cook for approximately 2.5-3 hours, basting occasionally with the juices.

  5. Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

The result? A smoky, juicy turkey with crispy skin that’s bound to impress your guests.

2. Grilled Honey-Glazed Ham

Ham is a Christmas classic, and grilling it adds a smoky flavour that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • Bone-in ham (4-5kg)

  • Honey (½ cup)

  • Dijon mustard (2 tbsp)

  • Brown sugar (½ cup)

  • Cloves

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your barbecue to 190°C (indirect heat).

  2. Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern and stud each diamond with a clove.

  3. Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar to make a glaze.

  4. Place the ham on the grill and brush generously with the glaze.

  5. Grill for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until golden and caramelised.

Serve this show-stopping dish with roasted veggies or your favourite sides.

3. BBQ Pumpkin with Cinnamon and Honey

For a sweet and seasonal side or dessert, grilled pumpkin slices are a must-try!

Ingredients:

  • Pumpkin (peeled and sliced into wedges)

  • Cinnamon (1 tsp)

  • Honey (2 tbsp)

  • Olive oil (1 tbsp)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat.

  2. Toss the pumpkin slices in olive oil, honey, and cinnamon.

  3. Grill for 10 minutes on each side until soft and caramelised.

  4. Serve as a side dish or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

4. Festive Grilled Pears with Mascarpone

Add a touch of elegance to your Christmas BBQ with these simple yet delicious grilled pears.

Ingredients:

  • Ripe pears (halved and cored)

  • Butter (melted)

  • Brown sugar (2 tbsp)

  • Mascarpone or whipped cream

Instructions:

  1. Brush the pear halves with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar.

  2. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until tender and caramelised.

  3. Serve warm with a dollop of mascarpone or whipped cream.

BBQ Tips for the Holiday Season

  • Use Indirect Heat: For large cuts like turkey and ham, indirect heat ensures even cooking without burning.

  • Add Wood Chips: Infuse your food with festive smoky flavours using apple or cherry wood chips.

  • Don’t Forget to Rest: Allow your meats to rest after grilling for juicier and more flavourful results.

This Christmas, turn your barbecue into a festive cooking station and wow your family and friends with these delicious recipes. Whether you’re cooking a main course, a side dish, or a dessert, your BBQ will bring a unique and unforgettable twist to the holidays.

Jade Warner