You are going on a road trip through New Zealand. You pack your bags, rent a motorhome, and head out on the highway in search of adventure. So you think: what am I going to eat? You can’t eat out every night, that would seriously blow your budget, and you can’t make two minute noodles in your camper van kitchen all the time, that would just be depressing. So why not make the most of your stay in New Zealand and indulge in a great Kiwi tradition… barbeque?
Many New Zealand campsites have barbecues available for public use. Most are free, but some require prior arrangements with the proper authorities. A small portable barbecue can also be purchased, but be sure to check the fire hazard warnings for individual areas before using it.
The smell of barbecue will be one of the highlights of your trip. Nothing relaxes you more than sipping a cold drink as the hot smoke drifts past your lounger, into the setting sun. As for actual food, a quick trip to the supermarket and you’re done. In order for it to be a proper Kiwi BBQ you need to purchase the following:
STEAK. No New Zealand barbecue is complete without steak, and whether you like it cooked to the consistency of shoe leather or practically bellowing, New Zealand beef is the way to go.
SAUSAGES, (also called ‘sausages’ in a throwback to New Zealand’s British heritage). Let’s face it, no matter how dubious the quality of the sausage, it always tastes like ambrosia when fresh out of the ‘barbie’ and covered with…
KETCHUP. And to prevent the sauce from dripping, of course, you need…
BREAD. White bread, usually. Kids love it.
SKEWERS. These come in a wide range of flavors. You probably don’t want the hassle of making one from scratch if you live in an RV, so pick up some pre-marinated at the grocery store. Chicken in peanut satay is always a good choice.
POTATO SALAD. Boil the potatoes, let cool, coat with mayonnaise. So good. You can spice it up by adding extras, like bits of bacon and parsley, or asparagus, or whatever you like.
CORN ON THE COB. These are so cheap and so tasty. You don’t even need to add butter, just eat them as is, warm and juicy.
And there you have it: New Zealand’s Great Barbecue. It is traditionally accompanied with beer and lots of it. Enjoy.