Turn your summer up a notch with William’s Gate

Embracing barbecue trends can set you apart this summer. William’s Gate, our company-owned supplier of high quality meats to food businesses all over Ireland, will help you to add exciting barbecue dishes to your summer menu.

This year brings exciting trends that cater to evolving consumer preferences and innovative culinary techniques. Read on to discover some of the standout trends for summer, perfect for enhancing your offering and satisfying your customers.

Low and slow cooking

The low-and-slow cooking method continues to gain popularity year on year. This technique involves cooking meat at a low temperature over a longer period, which helps to tenderise cuts and establish rich flavours. Cuts like brisket, pork shoulder and lamb shoulder are ideal for this method, providing juicy and flavourful results that are perfect for barbecue enthusiasts.

670909 WILLIAM’S GATE PORK SHOULDER BONELESS AP4KG

661820 WILLIAM’S GATE LAMB SHOULDER BONED & ROLLED AP2.5KG

712565 WILLIAM’S GATE SHORT RIB OF BEEF AP1.5KG

World flavours

When it comes to rubs, marinades and sauces, the world is your oyster. Consider Creole and Asian flavours to introduce bold and fresh combinations to your menu. Similarly, Middle Eastern and North African spices, such as cumin and coriander, are fast becoming favourites for BBQ rubs and marinades, adding a twist to traditional barbecue dishes.

Seasonal produce

Seasonal produce not only tastes better but tends to offer better value when it’s readily available.. Craft your barbecue menu using seasonal fruit and veg. For summer barbecue accompaniments, consider an apple and beetroot slaw, barbecued aubergine with a miso dressing, or pickled radishes – all of which make great use of seasonal produce.

Provenance & locality

Knowing where food was farmed and produced is key – and customers care about supporting local. When it comes to your menu, showcasing where your meat and produce comes from is an excellent way to demonstrate that both are of great importance to your business. Don’t be afraid to select a few hero Irish products to call out in recipe descriptions.

654956 WILLIAM’S GATE IRISH BEEF BURGERS 4oz 20pk x 1

654912 WILLIAM’S GATE IRISH BEEF BURGERS 6oz 20pk x 1

654970 WILLIAM’S GATE IRISH BEEF BURGERS 8oz 20pk x 1

Smoked meats

This is one trend that adds a new dimension of flavour when it comes to barbecue. William’s Gate high-quality cuts, such as beef brisket and pork ribs, are ideal for smoking. Try wood chips like hickory, applewood or mesquite for a distinct smoky flavour that enhances the natural taste of the meat. Slow cooking in a smoker results in tender, juicy meat that is sure to be a hit when served alongside customer favourites like pickles, slaw, mash and corn. Highlighting smoked options on your menu can attract customers seeking that authentic barbecue experience.

670913 WILLIAM’S GATE BEEF BRISKET ROLLED & TIED AP3KG

689112 WILLIAM’S GATE BEEF BRISKET AP2.5KG

654876 WILLIAM’S GATE PORK RIBS BBQ 30’S AP4KG

Creative skewers

Skewers are versatile and ideal for barbecue-inspired menus. Remember that we eat with our eyes, so aim to create visually appealing skewers. William’s Gate meats like marinated chicken, beef, or lamb can be paired beautifully with colourful vegetables such as bell peppers, courgettes, onions and cherry tomatoes.

Skewers are also a great way to incorporate vegetarian and vegan options into a barbecue menu to appeal to all dietary requirements. Vegetarian proteins such as halloumi or vegan staples like tofu that are seasoned to perfection and skewered with veggies, are brilliant choices.

Perfect summer drinks for barbecue menus

Complement your barbecue dishes with a selection of refreshing drinks that are a must for your summer beverage menu. There is an opportunity to consider your GP on any premium offerings. 

Seasonal craft beers

Craft beer has become a staple on almost every menu, but consider curating a selection of craft beers that scream summer to pair with your barbecue offering. Easy-drinking IPAs, wheat beer and tropical-flavoured IPAs will elevate your offering of typical lagers and pale ales for summertime.

Summer mocktails

Mocktails are an excellent addition to your summer barbecue menu, offering a sophisticated and inclusive option for all guests. Consider a minty watermelon cooler, a tropical pineapple and coconut mocktail, or a tangy ginger-lime fizz. These non-alcoholic beverages provide a delightful mix of flavours and are perfect for customers who prefer not to drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a summer inspired drink.

Freshly brewed iced tea

Iced teas are another refreshing non-alcoholic option for summer menus. Consider variations like classic black tea, green tea with mint, or a fruity hibiscus tea. These can be sweetened lightly with honey or garnished with fresh lemon and herbs.

The William’s Gate story

Part of the BWG Foods family, William’s Gate is the dedicated meat and master butchery arm operating from a state-of-the-art facility in Liosbaun, Co. Galway. Their team of protein specialists and chefs are truly passionate about meat; its provenance, its preparation, how it’s cooked and how to ensure customers receive only the best.

To order, call our Telesales team at 021 454 8700 or visit Shoplink.ie. Not registered yet for our online store? Contact a member of our team today.