Burgers, hot dogs and ribs have ‘God tier’ status among BBQ fans – proving the classics have stood the test of time despite the rise of healthier alternatives, according to research. This guide to the best of the barbeque foods shows the likes of cauliflower ‘steak’, cous-cous and chorizo appear lowest on the nation’s wish lists.
Cheese makes up a huge portion of the ‘good’ tier including halloumi and burger cheese, alongside corn on the cob and onions. Second from the bottom – the ‘meh’ tier – features white fish and tuna, while salmon was considered ‘good’.
Somewhat controversially, bacon was also in the ‘meh’ category.
The study of 2,000 adults revealed the nation’s favourite and least favoured barbeque foods, with 45 per cent preferring traditional dishes compared to 19 per cent who opt for alternatives. The likes of avocado (31 per cent), sweet potato (28 per cent) and brioche bread (13 per cent) are considered ‘elevated’ barbeque foods.
But 57 per cent believe traditional grill dishes have stood the test of time, with 47 per cent claiming hot dogs and burgers are unbeatable. A spokesman for brioche brand, St Pierre which commissioned the research, said: “The god tier ratings are definitely a conversation starter and everyone will have their own opinion on the best and worst barbeque foods.
“We know the bank holiday weekend will be a popular time for grilling and while the great British weather can sometimes surprise us, it could well be the last barbecue opportunity of the year. This list is perfectly timed to help inspire hosts on what to serve hungry guests.
“It’s clear the classics have stood the test of time, despite barbeques evolving in recent years to suit dietary requirements and ‘Instagramable’ dishes. It’s also clear that Brits are not enticed by a fruity dessert on the barbie such as bananas or pineapple, but will be after a variety of bread options for burgers and hot dogs to feed the crowds.”
The study also found 23 per cent plan to host a barbeque this bank holiday weekend while 26 per cent will be attending one. And 21 per cent like to try out new dishes when grilling to impress others.
Meals to impress include salmon (17 per cent), shrimps or prawns (17 per cent) and upgrading from standard bread to brioche rolls (16 per cent).
Despite this, many describe their own barbeques as traditional (28 per cent) and basic (30 per cent), yet flavoursome (42 per cent). But while 53 per cent stick to the basics when cooking as they assume that’s what their guests want, 43 per cent try – and fail – to cook something other than traditional foods.
For four in 10 of those polled, via OnePoll, barbeques have become healthier in the last decade, and 37 per cent think they are more suitable for all dietary requirements. When hosting a barbie, burgers and hot dogs are the go-to, as well as chicken, kebabs and potato salad making the cut.
Meanwhile, bread rolls (54 per cent) and brioche (31 per cent) are among the most popular breads to serve. When it comes to condiments, ketchup (48 per cent), mayonnaise (43 per cent) and aptly barbeque sauce (40 per cent) are the most popular for going alongside the likes of burgers and hot dogs.
St Pierre’s spokesperson added: “The nation has definitely become more exploratory in taste over the past few years and this is the first summer in the past few where hosts can look to impress guests with new-found skills.”
GOD TIER:
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Kebabs/skewers
- Chicken wings
- Ribs
- Chicken
- Potato salad
- Steak
- Coleslaw
- Pulled pork
GOOD TIER:
- Side salad
- Halloumi
- Corn on the cob
- Onions
- Salmon
- Burger cheese
- Lamb chops
- Bread rolls
- Grilled vegetables
- Prawns/shrimp
MEH TIER:
- Pasta salad
- Pork chops
- Grilled mushroom
- Avocado
- Sweet potatoes
- Bacon
- White Fish e.g. seabass, halibut
- Crisps
- Tuna steak
- Lamb doner
NAH TIER:
- Chicken souvlaki
- Lobster
- Pitta/flat bread
- Banana
- Beef brisket
- Pineapple
- Cous-cous
- Chorizo
- Grilled pear
- Cauliflower ‘steak’
