Hot weather set to push Brits to dust the BBQ off as data finds May is the start of BBQ season

• Brits admit the extremes they’ll go to enjoy their pre-planned BBQ
• As May Day weather set to reach the 20s, a survey found that Brits will BBQ when temperatures reach a minimum of 15 degrees, with May being the start of BBQ season
• With determined Brits planning BBQs ahead of the bank holiday, a head chef reveals his favourite BBQ tips

In the UK, weather can be amazing one day and completely horrid the next, but if you’ve planned a BBQ this May bank holiday you want to stick to it right? Food box company, HelloFresh, spoke to Brits to see the extent at which they’ll go to crack the barbie out.

In a survey it was revealed that Brits will BBQ when temperatures reach a minimum of 15 degrees, but in some cases this can be even colder. With May being the first month of warmer weather, we’ve officially reached BBQ season.

Marcus Bawdon, a BBQ lover who loves to share BBQ recipes online, shared that he loves a challenge, “I cook outdoors year round… It’s easy to BBQ on a nice sunny summer evening…so I like to make things more challenging.” Just last year he BBQ’d in the snow! Talk about commitment.

Marcus says, “You need to be well prepared and dress appropriately for the weather (which I didn’t do here), either cook very quickly grilling over high heat with good charcoal or for a long time in a smoker.”

Tom Bourlet, marketing manager at FizzBox shared how he and his team will always go ahead with plans, regardless of the weather. “Ironically all of our BBQs tend to come just before the weather improves- just our luck! Considering we offer activities and experiences, we’re always determined to get in the celebration mood, however the consistent rain has been difficult at times during March-May.”

The survey that was conducted by HelloFresh shows that the average temperature pushing Brits to BBQ varies from city to city up and down the UK, but as a national average, Brits believe that 18°C is the optimal temperature for a BBQ. Luckily for many of us, the weather is expected to reach this during May.

HelloFresh Head Chef Andre Dupin, commented: “Making the most of our gardens and outdoor spaces is what summer is all about — and one of the best ways to do this is al fresco dining!

BBQs are the ultimate outdoor dining experience for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a family BBQ or simply elevating a summer supper, there are a whole host of BBQ recipes and ideas to suit all diets, tastes and preferences. Remember to cater to your guestlist — if you know there are vegetarians or flexitarians attending, they will appreciate being given lots of choice too. Personally, I couldn’t recommend spicy BBQ tofu enough!”

So, no matter what your optimum temperature is to BBQ — make sure you’re ready when the time comes. For more BBQ food ideas, BBQ recipes and your ultimate BBQ shopping list, head to HelloFresh’s BBQ food guide.