When planning a BBQ, choosing the right food is crucial for both health and taste. While processed foods may seem convenient, they often contain less than 30% real, natural ingredients and are loaded with unhealthy additives. In this guide, we’ll explore different types of BBQ foods, their production, and why opting for quality options is essential.
Satay
Satay, a favorite at many BBQs, involves marinated meat skewered and grilled to perfection. Traditional satay is made from chicken, beef, or lamb marinated in a blend of spices and coconut milk. This method ensures the meat is flavorful and tender without relying on artificial additives.
Skewers
BBQ skewers are versatile, allowing you to grill a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. Unlike processed skewers, which may contain fillers and preservatives, fresh, high-quality skewers are made from natural ingredients. Each skewer should be carefully prepared, marinated, and grilled to bring out the natural flavors, offering a healthier and tastier alternative.
Marinated Meat and Seafood
Marinated meat and seafood selections should use fresh herbs, spices, and natural ingredients to enhance the flavor without compromising on health. Look for products that are free from artificial additives and preservatives, ensuring that you get the best quality for your meals.
Premium Sausages
Premium sausages stand out from typical low-quality options on the market. Many commercial sausages are packed with coloring, fillers, and unhealthy fats. In contrast, premium sausages are made from high-quality cuts of meat and natural casings, ensuring a superior taste and a healthier option for your BBQ.
Processed Foods to Avoid
While convenient, processed foods often come with a host of unhealthy ingredients. These products may contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, and can have less than 30% real meat or seafood. If you’ve seen how these foods are made, you’d likely think twice before consuming them. Here are some common processed foods to avoid at BBQs:
Meatballs : Often made with scraps and fillers, these are far from the real deal. They frequently contain binders, artificial flavors, and preservatives, making them an unhealthy choice.
Low-Quality Sausages : These are usually full of artificial coloring and low meat content, often made with fatty cuts and loaded with sodium and preservatives.
Crabsticks : Typically made from fish paste and additives, with little to no real crab meat. They often contain artificial flavors and colors to mimic the taste and appearance of real crab.
Hot Dogs : Often made with low-quality meat and various fillers, hot dogs can contain high levels of sodium, nitrates, and other preservatives.
Hamburger Patties : Pre-made patties might seem convenient but often contain fillers, binders, and artificial flavors, reducing the amount of actual meat and nutritional value.
Marinated Ribs : Pre-packaged marinated ribs can be loaded with high-fructose corn syrup, sodium, and artificial flavors, making them less healthy than fresh, naturally marinated options.
BBQ Sauce and Marinades : Many commercial sauces and marinades are high in sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, and sodium, with artificial flavors and preservatives. Opting for homemade or naturally prepared sauces is a healthier choice.
Recent studies have linked the consumption of ultra-processed foods to various health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders. A study highlighted by Channel News Asia emphasizes the importance of choosing natural, minimally processed foods to mitigate these risks.
Why Choose Shiok BBQ
At Shiok BBQ, we are committed to providing high-quality, delicious food that is great for pan frying as well as BBQ. We avoid artificial additives and focus on using natural, fresh ingredients. Our production process emphasizes quality and taste, ensuring that every product meets our high standards.
Quality Ingredients : We use some of the finest cuts of meat and fresh seafood for marination. This is why you might find our offering slightly or much higher compared to the rest of the BBQ vendors. It's wise to do your research—what could a $300 package, including drinks, food, plates, and cutlery with drinks, and charcoal for 15-20pax, really offer? The real cost of food is probably pretty low, forcing vendors to use low-quality ingredients that are cheap to lower down the offer.
Natural Marination : Our marinades are made from fresh herbs and spices, without artificial additives.
Healthier Options : Our products are free from unhealthy fillers and preservatives.
Choosing better Quality BBQ Food not only enhances the taste of your meals but also contributes to better health. Opt for natural ingredients, avoid heavily processed items, and enjoy a healthier BBQ experience.
