Ever since the first whole hog got trussed up over a fire, barbecue and grilling have been a staple of North American living.

For many of us, grilling is a routine mealtime activity, while for the most devoted grillers, summer is ruled by massive barbecue parties. But you don’t have to choose between boring repetition and crazy get-togethers: every barbecue can and should be an exciting family event.

Here are 3 ways to make your routine evening barbecue a more unique experience:



1) Remember those “choose your own adventure” stories?

Try foil-wrapped surprise meals to let everyone build their own dinner! Place different combinations of chicken, fish and vegetables, sauces, and spices on the table and let folks build their own foil packets.

These cook in less than 20 minutes and lead to no-mess, lip-smacking results. Everyone will love the surprise element and can easily switch packets.

You can even ask your family for combo suggestions before the barbecue, or draw ingredient names out of a hat to create new dish ideas!



2) A little variety goes a long way. If you tend to stick to the same old burgers and tube-steaks, why not try grilled pizza or salmon steaks? Similarly, try to mix it up with condiments and seasoning. Sick of ketchup? Try salsa or Teriyaki sauce instead. 

Cooking over (or under) a bed of glowing coals is fundamental in almost every corner of the world…hope on the Google and find a new culture to inspire your Q!



3) A BBQ party doesn’t have to be rushed. In fact, the deal should be quite the opposite, which should represent a process of slow cooking on low heat…and nothing does low & slow better than a caja china!

You can find many low-and slow recipes right here on the blog, or in the La Caja China Cookbooks.

Hanging out around the magic box while your pig is roasting to perfection is a great way to pass some quality time with your family and friends.



4) Finally…you’re not Bobby Flay, and no one’s tracking your ratings, or catching every second on film…chill out, have fun, and try being a guest at your own party!

Too many of us get lost in the details of planning the perfect pit-master party and forget to enjoy our friends, family, and delicious food. Plan dishes that can be prepared in advance, and don’t be afraid to hand off some of the grill duties to others so you can walk around with a cool drink yourself!

So…what do YOU do to make a family BBQ fun? Any special recipes, games or traditions that you’d like to share?

Now get out there and enjoy an unforgettable barbecue!

Chef Perry

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Chef Perry P. Perkins comes from a long line of professional cooks.

As a third generation chef, he focuses his love of cooking on barbeque, traditional southern fare, and fresh Northwest cuisine.

Perry runs a non-profit organization. MY KITCHEN Outreach Program, which teaches nutrition, shopping, and hands on cooking classes or at risk youth.

His cookbooks include La Caja China Cooking, La Caja China World, and La Caja China Party.