Top 10 Budget-Friendly BBQ Tips

BBQ doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. In fact, it can be a fun and affordable way to enjoy outdoor cooking. Shiny new gadgets are great, but what do you really need to get started? Here are ten tips to make BBQing easier on your wallet!

Tip #1: Campfire BBQ Basics

Start simple with a circle of rocks and a cheap grill campfire-style. It’s a fantastic way to learn fire and heat control before deciding on your preferred style of outdoor cooking. Be mindful of fire control, especially when using wood, as wind and rain can quickly cool down your grill.

Tip #2: DIY Charcoal Drum

I started BBQing with an old oil drum cut in half, which I pop-riveted with hinges and handles, lined with firebricks, and fitted with a cheap grate. It did the job well, although managing the temperature was a bit of a challenge.

Tip #3: Invest in a Kettle BBQ

Upgrade to a kettle BBQ with a lid; a 22-inch (57cm) one is ideal. These can often be found second-hand and last a long time. Even when you ‘level up,’ it remains a useful part of your BBQ arsenal or can be passed on to someone starting out.

Tip #4: Use Less Smoking Wood

When it comes to smoking wood chunks, less is more. Reducing the amount of wood you use not only saves money but also enhances the flavor of your food. Many beginners overuse smoking wood, so start small and adjust as needed.

Tip #5: Quality Over Cheap Gear

Investing a bit more in durable equipment can pay off in the long run. Cheaper grills often end up in the trash after just a year.

Tip #6: Get a Reliable Meat Thermometer

A digital meat thermometer is a wise investment. It ensures you don’t waste any of the precious cuts, especially when you’re just starting out.

Tip #7: Ugly Drum Smoker Starter

Consider starting with an Ugly Drum Smoker (UDS), which is basically a DIY smoker made from an old metal oil drum with vents and grates. Just ensure the drum is food-safe and well-cleaned before use.

Tip #8: Choose Quality Charcoal

Cheap charcoal can be a false economy, potentially ruining your carefully selected cuts. Opt for the best charcoal you can afford, and save money by snuffing out the coals at the end of a cook.

Tip #9: Embrace Cheaper Cuts

BBQing originally focused on making the most of cheaper cuts. While some of these, like brisket, are no longer bargains, you can still find tasty, inexpensive cuts that cook well slowly. For example, a BBQ pig’s head is often cheap and yields a surprising amount of delicious meat.

Tip #10: Stretch Your Meal with Sides

Don’t hesitate to bulk up your BBQ meals with affordable items like mac ‘n’ cheese. Enhancing carby staples such as dirty fries or pulled pork mac ‘n’ cheese can make pricey meats go further. Using ground beef, sausage meat, black pudding, and bacon provides cheaper meat options to get creative with. Also, don’t overlook the magic of grilling inexpensive veggies—they taste amazing on the BBQ!

Happy grilling!