Plan Your Perfect BBQ: A Detailed Guide to Menu Selection & Portioning

Plan Your Perfect BBQ: A Detailed Guide to Menu Selection & Portioning

When planning your BBQ party, one of the most common questions we hear is, “Can you set a package for us?” While we offer all sorts of ready-made BBQ Packages, why not design your own using our extensive à la carte BBQ Food? With a bit of guidance on portioning and dish selection, you can craft a menu that perfectly suits your crowd—ensuring everyone leaves full, happy, and impressed. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about selecting a variety of dishes, estimating portions, and choosing the right mix of meats, seafood, vegetables, and carbs.

Estimating Portions: Getting the Basics Right

One of the first steps in planning your BBQ is getting the quantities right. A good rule of thumb is to plan on approximately 350g to 500g of meats and seafood per adult. This range accounts for guests with hearty appetites while avoiding excessive leftovers. In addition, include about 100-200g of carbs and vegetables per person. This combination ensures a balanced meal where the protein is the star, but the sides are substantial enough to fill in any gaps.

Remember, it’s always better to order a little more than necessary, rather than having guests leave hungry. Any extra food can be packed for takeaway, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and everyone is satisfied.

Crafting a Diverse and Delicious Menu

A well-rounded BBQ package should ideally feature between 8 to 11 different dishes. The idea is to offer variety, so guests can mix and match according to their tastes, and so that there’s something for everyone—from meat lovers to those who prefer seafood or veggies. Here’s a suggested breakdown for your menu:

1. Meats

When it comes to meats, diversity is key. Consider including dishes from different categories:

• Beef: Options such as Angus Ribeye Argentinian BBQ style or Shortrib Sliced Bulgogi Beef offer rich, marbled flavors.
• Lamb: A dish like Classic Garlic Rosemary Lamb Rump Chop can act as a stunning centerpiece.
• Pork: Think along the lines of Pork Skewer Moo Ping or Pork Collar Szechuan Style for an irresistible, savory option.
• Chicken: Options like Chicken Satay or Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs bring a mix of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
• Duck: For something a bit different, a dish like Duck Breast Hickory Wood Smoked adds depth with its rich, gamey taste and skin.

Having at least one option from each meat category lets you cater to different preferences and ensures that the overall spread is exciting and varied.

2. Seafood

Seafood is another essential element in a memorable BBQ:

• Fish: Select one or two options, such as Whole Seabass Lemon Pepper Rub or a Mala Jumbo Fresh Squid dish. These choices are light yet flavorful and offer a refreshing break from heavier meats.
• Shellfish: For shellfish, you might consider a standout option like Live Frozen Bamboo Lobster (the crown jewel of our offerings) or Gumbo Style Wild Tiger Prawns. These provide a touch of luxury and are sure to impress your guests with their delicate flavors and succulent textures.

3. Vegetables

Don’t forget the greens and other veggies! They bring color, texture, and a much-needed balance to a meat-heavy spread.

• Grilled broccoli and Cameron Highlands Pearl Corn On Cob, for example, not only complement the meats and seafood but also add a healthy, crunchy element to the meal.
• Other options might include roasted heirloom carrots or a fresh salad—whatever suits your taste and the overall theme of your event.

4. Carbs

Last but not least, carbs are essential to round out the meal and keep everyone satisfied:

• Consider offerings like Soy and Shiitake Mushroom Braised Rice or Brown Rice & Quinoa Cucumber Tomato Salad for a filling yet flavorful addition.
• You might also include options like mashed potatoes or a pasta dish that pairs well with the robust flavors of the BBQ meats and seafood.

Customizing Your Menu: The Art of Balance

Now, here’s the fun part: mix and match these elements to craft a menu that’s perfectly tailored to your party. For a typical BBQ gathering, you might aim for a total of 8 to 11 dishes. 

• Meats (3-4 dishes):

• Seafood (2 dishes):

• Vegetables (1-2 dishes):

• Carbs (1 dish):
  

This combination ensures a mix of proteins, fresh vegetables, and satisfying carbs so that no guest leaves hungry.

Avoiding Food Waste and Keeping Everyone Happy

An important aspect of planning your BBQ package is balancing enough food without overdoing it. Our advice? It’s better to order a little extra than to come up short—especially since leftovers can often be packaged for a takeaway. However, you don’t want to waste food either. The trick is to monitor the mix carefully and consider your guests’ appetites. Some guests may favor the meats, while others might lean towards the seafood or sides. Planning for diverse portion sizes and having a little contingency is key.

Tips for a Stress-Free BBQ Party

• Prepare Ahead: Design your menu and calculate portions at least a few days in advance.
• Get Input: Don’t hesitate to ask your guests if they have any dietary preferences or special requests. This can help tailor the menu even further.
• Be Flexible: If you’re uncertain, opt for a slightly larger quantity of items you know are popular and be ready to serve leftovers.
• Consult the Experts: Our BBQ specialists are always here to help. Whether you need advice on pairing sauces with meats or finding the perfect balance of dishes, we’re only a call or message away.

Final Thoughts

Creating the perfect BBQ Package for your party is all about balance and customization. With our extensive à la carte menu, you have the flexibility to design your own package that perfectly meets your needs. By planning ahead and considering the mix of meats, seafood, vegetables, and carbs, you can ensure every guest leaves satisfied and your event is a memorable feast.

Remember, the secret to a great BBQ party is enjoying the process as much as the food itself. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative with your menu, and let’s make your next BBQ party a Shiok experience that leaves everyone smiling and full!