While foodies love cooking for friends and families, many dread the holidays as the responsibility of entertaining the masses is just too much to stomach (pun intended). It needn’t be, though. With a little forward planning – mise en place if you will – you’ll be able to kick back and relax with your guests this festive season. No slaving over a hot stove for you. Thanks, Big Green Egg!
1. Ensure you’re “EGG ready”: While the EGG is all about convenience, ever so often you do want to do a bit of maintenance on your prized possession. Not a lot – just check your gasket, nuts and bolts every month or so to ensure they are in good condition. You also want to ensure you have all the EGGcessories you need. Our personal favourite at this time of the year is the Dual Probe Thermometer – cooking success every time! Remember, we’re all for convenience, so look up your closest Big Green Egg dealer here or shop online here (but, remember the cut off dates for the holiday deliveries!)
2. Decide how you’re doing Christmas this year: Formal sit down with all the trimmings or relaxed “Bring & Share” vibe? These EGG restaurants are a good alternative if you’d rather have someone else EGG for you.
3. Create your menu: This year, we’re opting for a delicious Christmas duck recipe which is as easy as it is delicious. If you prefer a traditional turkey, this video is a must-watch. Lamb and beef are perennial favourites and, of course, there has to be a vegetarian main course alternative. Sides and puddings are covered in our Big Green Egg Recipes section.
4. Source your supplies: In Joburg, we personally recommend Caroline McCann’s Braeside Meat Market and Jackson Real Food Market. You can also stock up on your cooking accessories while you are there. Cape Town cooks are spoilt for choice with Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants or Raith Gourmet Butchery. Hope Meat Supplies in Durban North supply excellent quality meat.
5. EGG. Serve. Enjoy. Repeat! EGGing is always meant to be fun and we look forward to seeing your holiday snaps on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.