Summertime Is Coming: How to Cook Skewers on the Barbecue Like a Pro
With longer days, warmer evenings, and the scent of grilled food in the air, there’s no better time to fire up the barbecue and make the most of summer cooking. And nothing says summer quite like a well-cooked skewer. Whether you’re grilling meat, vegetables, or a bit of both, skewers are versatile, flavour-packed, and perfect for sharing.
At Moore & Sons Butchers, we know a thing or two about barbecuing meat to perfection. Here’s our expert guide on how to cook skewers on the barbecue, from prep to plating.
🔥 Why Skewers Are a Summer BBQ Favourite
Skewers — or kebabs, if you prefer — offer the perfect balance of flavour, convenience, and creativity. You can mix and match meats, vegetables, and marinades to suit your taste, and they cook quickly over the flames. Plus, they’re ideal for feeding a crowd without much fuss.
From tender chunks of beef or lamb to juicy chicken, pork, or even sausages, skewers make the most of great-quality meat – especially when sourced from your trusted local butcher.
🧂 Step 1: Choose the Right Meat
The secret to great skewers starts with great ingredients. At Moore & Sons, we recommend the following cuts for flavour and tenderness:
• Beef: Sirloin, ribeye, or rump (cut into even cubes)
• Lamb: Leg or shoulder (boneless, marinated for tenderness)
• Chicken: Thighs are juicier than breast and less likely to dry out
• Sausages: Our handmade sausages can be sliced and threaded for something different
✨ Top tip: If you’re cooking mixed skewers (meat and veg), consider par-cooking harder veg like potatoes or carrots beforehand so everything finishes together on the grill.
🧼 Step 2: Prep Your Skewers
Wooden vs Metal
• Metal skewers are reusable, conduct heat, and cook faster.
• Wooden skewers are great for single use but must be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Cutting & Threading
• Cut your ingredients into even-sized chunks (about 1.5–2 inches) so they cook uniformly.
• Thread meat and vegetables loosely but securely, allowing heat to circulate and flavours to mingle.
✨ Pro tip: Don’t overload your skewers — give ingredients space to caramelise and cook evenly.
🧴 Step 3: Marinade for Flavour
A good marinade can take your skewers from good to unforgettable. Try one of these easy combos:
• Garlic & Herb: Olive oil, fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon zest
• Sweet & Sticky: Honey, soy sauce, ginger, chilli flakes
• Smoky BBQ: Paprika, cumin, brown sugar, tomato purée, vinegar
Let your skewers marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have the time. The result? More flavour, better caramelisation, and mouth-watering meat.
🔥 Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Set your barbecue to medium-high heat and make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
• Beef & lamb: Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning every couple of minutes for a nice char
• Chicken & pork: Grill for 10–12 minutes or until cooked through (internal temp of 74°C for chicken)
• Veg-only skewers: Grill for 6–8 minutes, brushing with oil or marinade
Avoid overcooking — especially lean cuts. Rest skewers for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.
🍴 Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Skewers are best served hot off the grill with a side of fresh salads, grilled flatbreads, and a drizzle of sauce.
Here are a few ideas:
• Chimichurri or tzatziki for lamb
• Smoky BBQ or mustard dip for pork
• Garlic yoghurt or chilli mayo for chicken
Pair with grilled halloumi, corn on the cob, or roasted peppers for a colourful, satisfying summer spread.
Planning a garden gathering? Let us help you bring your BBQ to life.
At Moore & Sons Butchers, we offer:
✅ Premium cuts for BBQ skewers
✅ Hand-prepared meats, ready to marinate
✅ Expert advice from our in-store butchers
✅ Convenient local delivery or collection
Get ahead of summer cooking and browse our BBQ selection online or in-store.
