I suspect Al fresco dining
and the use of the garden or picnicking is now prevalent with the present
rather splendid weather. Of course with hormone levels running high the BBQ
comes into its own and the never ending debate of the merits of Charcoal or Gas.
I am not going down this path at all. One of my greatest investments over the
years had been a portable gas stove. Applications to date have include a cooked
breakfast with fresh coffee watching the sun rise over Stonehenge. Tea/Coffee -
Burgers/Hot Dogs in Hyde Park for 30 and the impromptu griddled meats and fish
in the garden.
You will need a griddle plate
too. A camping kettle is also useful for boiling water
I did actually invest in a
two ring camping stove for the garden a little more sophisticated but the
principle is the same and works a treat. One time I actually cooked a large
Gammon Joint in a saucepan on it – really efficient – I got a second one
recently from Argos but note they are on Sale in many places.
Whether you choose to BBQ or
griddle marinating meats and anything else you care to cook gives so many new
flavours and also breaks down textures. Use Herbs, Seasonings, something acidic
like citrus fruit juices – alcohol/wine. A little Oil. Plastic Food bags are
ideal for turning and full coverage – they also easily stored in the fridge
unlike bulky containers or boxes.
Chicken with Lavender (4 Chicken Breast)
Marinade
6 Fresh Lavender Flowers
2 tsp finely grated Orange
Zest
2 Garlic Cloves – crushed
2 tsp Clear Honey
2 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tsp Thyme – chopped
2 tsp Marjoram – chopped
- Strip flowers from stems. Combine all ingredients together.
- Slash the Chicken deeply and spread the marinade over the Chicken.
Leave for about 20 minutes or more.
- Cook Chicken over e medium BBQ or under a Grill basting with
Marinade and turning once until cooked through.
- Serve with Salads of your Choice
