Start 2025 off right with these BBQ resolutions!
It’s bloody hot outside, the kids are running amok in the backyard, the New Years Eve hangover has subsided, and the smoker’s chugging along, filling the air with that unmistakable smoky goodness. For me, that’s summer in Australia. The BBQ is where it all happens. Great food, cold drinks, and memories made around the grill.
Now that 2025 has rolled in, I’ve been thinking about what I want to achieve this year, BBQ-wise. Because let’s face it, there’s always room to up your game. So, here are my BBQ resolutions for 2025. A mix of skills to sharpen, flavours to explore, and reasons to spend more time with mates around the fire.
1. Nail a New Technique
There’s no shame in sticking to what you’re good at, but where’s the fun in that? This year, I’m diving headfirst into a few techniques I’ve been meaning to master.
- Brisket and Lamb Shoulder: Smoking brisket is the holy grail of BBQ. I’ve done a few decent ones, but I want to make the kind of brisket that has people calling it “the best they’ve ever had.” And because we’re in Australia, I reckon smoked lamb shoulder is overdue for its time in the spotlight. Imagine pulling apart smoky, tender lamb and slathering it with some mint chimichurri. Mouth-watering stuff.
- Smoke-Infused Baking: BBQ isn’t just about meat. Imagine baking a loaf of crusty sourdough, a gooey chocolate brownie, or even a wood-fired pizza right on your grill. The smoke adds a layer of complexity you won’t get from a regular oven. It’s a challenge, sure, but the payoff? Next level.
- Homemade Snags: Give Bunnings a run for its money. I want to try my hand at crafting my own sausages. I’m thinking smoky garlic and rosemary or something with a spicy kick.
I’ll probably screw up a few attempts, but hey, that’s part of the fun. Keep an eye on @ollies_q for the results, good or bad, I’ll share the journey.
Not sure where to start? Check out YouTube tutorials, join a local BBQ store masterclass, or pick up a book like Franklin Smoke: Wood. Fire. Food.
2. Explore New Flavours
One of the best things about BBQ is that it’s a passport to flavours from all over the world. This year, I’m making it a mission to bring some global inspiration to the grill.
- Texan Classics: I love a peppery, smoky brisket with all the trimmings. You can’t go wrong with American BBQ staples.
- Argentinian Asado: Cooking over open flames feels primal and satisfying. Add chimichurri, and you’re in business.
- Southeast Asian BBQ: I’m keen to try marinating chicken wings or pork skewers in a sweet and tangy blend of soy, lime, and garlic. Serve with a killer peanut sauce, and you’ve got a winner.
- Middle Eastern Lamb: Za’atar, lemon, and garlic on lamb skewers, paired with fresh flatbreads and dips… tell me that doesn’t sound unreal.
The beauty of BBQ is that it’s endlessly adaptable. I’m excited to make 2025 a year of experimenting with spices, sauces, and marinades that take my BBQ to the next level.
3. Celebrate BBQ with Others
This year, I want to make BBQ less about perfection and more about connection. Sharing great food and good times is what it’s all about, and there’s no better way to do that than around a grill.
- Mates’ BBQ Nights: Forget teaching sessions, this is about getting mates together for no-frills, honest BBQ. A mix of classic favourites and new creations on the grill, some cold beers, and a few laughs. Whether it’s a Sunday arvo or a Friday dinner, the goal is simple: good food and good company.
- Family Cook-Ups: My girls, Millie and Edie, already love hanging out while I cook. This year, I want to make family BBQ nights a regular thing, where everyone gets involved. It’s about time they got their hands dirty helping prep or even flipping their first burgers. Starting them young is the way to go.
- Exploring Regional BBQ Traditions: Australia has a rich history of outdoor cooking, from indigenous fire-pit techniques to drovers’ campfire stews. I’d love to dive into some of these traditions and find ways to bring them into my backyard. Smoky damper, charred kangaroo, or even experimenting with native herbs and spices. BBQ honouring what’s uniquely Aussie.
BBQ is always better when it’s shared. This year, I’m making a conscious effort to bring people together around the grill, one meal at a time.
4. Shop Local
When it comes to ingredients, I’ve always believed in quality over quantity. This year, I’m doubling down on sourcing the best Aussie produce and meat.
- Local Butchers: You just can’t beat fresh, grass-fed beef or lamb from a proper butcher who knows their stuff. That’s why I shop with Dan at DC Meats.
- Seasonal Veggies: I’ve been grilling corn, asparagus, and capsicums forever, but I’m keen to see what other produce works on the barbie.
- Aussie Seafood: There’s nothing like fresh prawns or a whole barramundi cooked over coals.
Not only does shopping local taste better, but it’s also good karma for supporting Aussie farmers and businesses.
Shopping local doesn’t just elevate your BBQ, it also supports Aussie businesses.
5. Get Creative with Sides
Look, I’ll never stop loving a Tyler’s Potato Bake, but it’s time to mix things up. This year, I’m challenging myself to up my sides game.
- Smoked Mac & Cheese: Rich, smoky, and downright indulgent. It’s always a hit.
- Fresh Salsas: A pineapple and chili salsa is magic with pork, and a fresh tomato and onion mix works wonders on steak.
- Homemade Sauces: I’m thinking a smoky bourbon BBQ sauce or a zingy mango habanero glaze.
Sides are the supporting act that can steal the show—don’t sleep on them.
7. Share the Journey
This one’s a bit personal, but I want to show more of what happens behind the scenes at @ollies_q. BBQ isn’t always perfect, there are burnt ends (and not the good kind), failed experiments, and laughs along the way.
2025 is the year I open up a bit more, sharing my wins, struggles, and everything in between. If you’ve got a question, a tip, or even a BBQ horror story, hit me up. We’re all in this smokin’ journey together.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it, my BBQ resolutions for 2025. Whether it’s nailing a brisket, hosting more cook-ups, or just having fun with new flavors, it’s all about pushing myself to do better and enjoy the ride.
What are your BBQ goals this year? Shoot me a message or tag @ollies_q in your posts—I’d love to see what you’re cooking.
Here’s to a year of great food, cold drinks, and smoky sunsets. Fire up the grill, and let’s make 2025 a year to remember. Cheers!
