When the UK turns tropical and the garden feels like a grill already, standing over hot coals for hours isn’t the vibe. But BBQ doesn’t need to stop — it just needs to adapt.

Here’s what to cook, serve and sip when it’s 28°C+, the sun is relentless, and you still want proper flavour without the meltdown.

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🧊 Tip 1: Go Light, Go Fast

Stick to quick-cook cuts and lighter flavours. Think tacos, skewers and grilled veg — all done in under 20 minutes.

• 🌶️ Miami Mojo – Veg skewers with courgette, red onion, and halloumi
• 🌮 Al Pastor – Thin pork steaks grilled fast, served in soft tacos
• 🧂 SPG – Simple and clean on grilled chicken or halloumi strips

Keep it moving, keep it breezy — this is fast-fire BBQ.

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🍹 Tip 2: Serve Chilled Everything

Let your sides do the cooling. Build a menu around cold, prepped dishes and icy drinks.

• 🥗 Slaws, potato salads, and pickled veg (make ahead)
• 🧊 Dips like guac, salsa, and yoghurt-lime crema
• 🍉 Drinks like watermelon juice, lime spritzers, or iced tea

📌 Got our BBQ Salads post live? Link to it for bonus flavour.

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🌬️ Tip 3: Set Up for Shade + Flow

Don’t try to cook everything at once. You’re not opening a food truck.

• 🌿 Create a shaded prep station or move the BBQ to cover
• 🔥 Cook in bursts, rest food in foil trays or warm boxes
• 💦 Keep cool packs, wet towels and spray bottles on hand

Comfort equals staying power. Keep it chill.

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🧂 Tip 4: Season Ahead

When it’s 30°C out, the last thing you want to do is rub meat on the spot.

• 💡 Rub meats early in the day — before it gets hot
• ❄️ Store covered in the fridge, ready for fast grilling
• ⏳ Let rubs work their magic while you work on staying cool

Let the seasoning do the heavy lifting. You just show up and grill.

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🛒 Your Heatwave Kit

Shop light, fresh blends like:

• Miami Mojo – bright citrus + herbs
• Al Pastor – sweet, Latin-inspired pork
• SPG – the all-rounder for fast cooks

Browse the full Taco & Fajita Collection or pick up a few mini cans to cover your next few grill nights.

📸 Show us your shaded setups and chill cooks — tag @Smokey.Rebel with your heatwave BBQ wins.

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❓FAQs – BBQ in Hot Weather

What’s the best meat to cook in a heatwave?
Stick to quick cuts: chicken strips, pork steaks, halloumi or skewers. Anything that’s done in 10–15 mins max.

Can I still BBQ if it’s over 30°C?
Absolutely — just plan for shorter cook times, stay hydrated, and set up in the shade if possible.

Which Smokey Rebel rubs work best in hot weather?
Miami Mojo and Al Pastor offer lighter, citrus-forward flavours perfect for the heat.

What’s a good make-ahead side for a BBQ?
Cold slaws, pickled onions, and herby potato salads are all refreshing and easy to prep the day before.

Can I rub meat in the morning and cook it later?
Yes — early rub application helps deepen flavour and makes cooking easier when it’s hot.