The day we get to honour and appreciate our wonderful fathers, father figures and male mentors is fast approaching.
I think we can all agree that sometimes it can be tough to find that special gift to say ‘thank you’ – and although no materialistic gift could ever express the gratitude we have for the men in our lives, a kind gesture goes a long way.
Over the years I have discovered the most success is with the more practical gifts, and with the warmer weather approaching you really can’t go wrong with some BBQ Essentials! There is no denying Darren loves cooking at the BBQ as much as he loves cooking in the kitchen so today we sit down with him to run through a few of his favourite BBQ must haves!
So if you are in need of some gift ideas this Fathers Day you have come to the right place!
Apron
First things first…. you’ve got to look like the real deal! Cooking isn’t always the most ‘tidy’ of tasks, and if you are anything like Darren EVERYTHING has to be prepared from scratch. An apron is always the best way to protect your garms and one with pockets can double as tool belt for all ensuring all those cooking tools stay within arms reach.
Studio Cross Back Apron
Custom Knives
Nothing says you are a self accredited home chef more than a set of custom knives. It’s not until you own some yourself that you realise just how much they can help with your cooking. There are many small businesses around such as Dog Boy Knives that can custom make knives for you and your style of cooking!
Dog Boy Knives
Organisation
You can’t have a custom knife set with no where for them to go, a leather knife roll is the perfect pairing to ensure those knives are kept clean and sharp. Customisation is also available which can make it perfectly suited to your custom knives! This one from Maka Leather Goods can fit up to 10 blades as well as compartmentalise any other small tools.
Maka Leather Goods Knife Roll
Chopping Board
There are many types of chopping boards out there, but Darren always opts for timber given they don’t blunt his knives and are completely heat resistant! One of his favourites is this one from Wild Wood which is made from reclaimed wood. Not only are they sustainable but they look great also when styling your outdoor kitchen or BBQ area!
Wild Wood Hand Made Chopping Board
Salt & Pepper Grinders
Any cook would know that having your spices etc at arms reach is a must, so they might as well look good too right! Darren loves his set of Menu S&P shakers for their clean lines and muted colours!
Menu Salt and Pepper Grinders
Meat Probe
When it comes to BBQ-ing there is nothing worse than pulling a piece of meat off the BBQ, cutting into only to find that it has been undercooked, worse yet – overcooked!!! Even the best of chefs can get it wrong and the only real way to nail your meat everytime is with a meat probe.
The Meater Meat Probe
Cocktail Shaker
You can’t claim to be a chef unless you know how to make a good drink right?? This past year at home has really brought the inner bartender out of ourselves and the first step is having the right tools! This cocktail making set will have you whipping up some tasty drinks in no time! Darren’s specialty has to be a margarita!
Zone Denmark Cocktail Shaker
Lighting
Set the ambience at your dinner table with these cute portable rechargeable lamps! They’re perfect for if you have a separate outdoor dining space with minimal lighting or even if your BBQ lacks in good lighting whilst you’re cooking.
Marset XL follow Me Lamp
