Brits are keeping things simple at the grill this summer, as more than half (52%) say they’ll be embracing classic BBQ food and drink, skipping pricey meats and artisan drinks in favour of sausages, burgers and a chilled glass of wine or lager.
Topping the list of must-have items is the ever-reliable sausage, with 78% of the nation agreeing it’s the ultimate BBQ staple. Burgers come in second (66%), followed by white rolls (47%), marinated chicken drumsticks (44%) and familiar sides like coleslaw (43%) and potato salad (39%).
The shift reflects a move away from expensive barbecue trends. High-end items like natural wines (35%), whole fish (27%, ribs of beef (26%), and craft ales (21%) are being left on the shelf as families focus on value and flavour. Even “fancy” salads and sides, inspired by chefs like Ottolenghi, are falling out of favour.
Instead, there’s a renewed love for traditional condiments like ketchup (62%) and mayo (50%), with chimichurri and taramasalata taking a back seat.
The research, commissioned by Andrew Peace Wines, also found that a glass of cold Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay is the drink of choice for two-thirds of BBQ lovers. In fact, 66% say there’s nothing better than sipping a glass of wine while the smell of the BBQ fills the air.
To help make BBQs more accessible, Andrew Peace Wines has teamed up with England cricket legend and chef Matthew “Hoggy” Hoggard to create a £30 BBQ menu. The affordable feast includes crowd-pleasers like soy ginger chicken thighs with mango and pomegranate salsa, BBQ roasted potato salad with bacon bits, and a bottle of Aussie wine – enough to feed a family of four without breaking the bank.
“It’s great to see that Brits’ love for hosting BBQs has not dwindled, despite purse strings being tighter,” said Hoggy. “Burgers, bangers and chicken thighs are always winners, and it doesn’t take much to jazz them up and keep guests happy.”
Andrew Peace added, “BBQs are a quintessential part of a British summer and it’s clear we’re not giving them up – we’re just doing them smarter.”
This summer also sees a move towards cooking the old-fashioned way, with 36% planning to swap gas grills for charcoal to bring a bit of theatre and tradition back to their BBQs.
So if your summer plans involve sunshine, sausages and a simple glass of wine, you’re in good company.
