When it comes to summer get-togethers, there are really two distinct camps; picnics, where it’s all about the scenery and cookouts, where it’s all about the vibe.
The group of friends you invite to each event might be as different as the outfits you wear to each one, but the one thing is for sure, the food has to be good. Because food anchors these events. The snacks, mains, sides, and sweet things on the table in someone’s backyard or on a pretty picnic blanket can make or break the event because food is culture and culture is community.
To get you ready for BLACK FOODIE Wknd and your own picnic or cookout, we’ve put together a list of our top-rated recipes to help you create a menu that’ll leave you feeling fat, happy, and ready to stretch out under the shade before the next round (because you KNOW there’ll be another round).
Choose a few of our picks below and add a bottle of Angostura-spiked sorrel to your picnic basket or a jug of Ginger lemonade to the cookout cooler and you’re all set. Just don’t forget the music.
Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread
The staple of all staples, this cheesy jalapeno cornbread is firm enough to be taken anywhere and friendly enough to be enjoyed by kids, adults, and everyone in between. Make sure to drizzle the cornbread with honey while it’s still warm for another layer of moisture.
BLACK FOODIE-style Hot Dogs
Pictured above. Hot dogs are the perfect time-saver for cookouts because they’re pre-seasoned, pre-cooked and easy to throw on the grill and plate up. Take them up a notch with three unique condiments that’ll add a taste of Africa and the Caribbean to your weekend menu.
Coconut and Mango Salad
Light, fresh, and oh-so-satisfying, this coconut and mango salad will become a staple at your next cookout. You can also pack it in mini mason jars and store them in the fridge the night before your picnic so everyone has a chance to enjoy this sweet and savoury combination.
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky deserves a lot more shine, especially as a part of your picnic menu. Packed with protein, easy to eat, and absolutely delicious no matter the flavour, they’re a budget-friendly way to add something savoury to your picnic.
Vegan Fried Chicken
Made with oyster mushrooms in a perfectly seasoned batter, these fried chicken tenders are nothing short of amazing. Marinate the mushrooms overnight to soak up your favourite spices and then pile them high at the cookout with a range of dipping sauces for best results.
Bahamian Johnny Cake
Buttery, fluffy and so easy to make, these traditional biscuits from The Bahamas work for a picnic or a cookout! If you’re looking for something sweet, pour the batter into a loaf pan and spread them with guava jam once sliced or bake them in muffin tins so everyone can have their own at the cookout!
Street-style Jerk Corn
Summer calls for grills and grills are made for fresh cobs of corn! These street-style jerk corn cobs can be roasted slightly for an extra hit of flavour before you slather them with lip-smacking jerk mayo and toasted coconut flakes. So good.
Customizable Deli Sandwiches
You can never go wrong with a sandwich at a picnic, especially if it’s loaded with freshly sliced meats like corned beef, pastrami, and roast beef, piled high with your favourite condiments and toppings. With so many options, prepared beef products like deli meats offer something for everyone – they’re a foodie’s dream!
Coconut Turnovers
A classic Trinidadian dessert, coconut turnovers are easy to make but layered with sugar and spices for an irresistible eating experience. Enjoy them alone or with a scoop of fruit or vanilla ice cream for the perfect end to your outdoor event.
Peach Cobbler
Perfect for that moment when the music switches from Frankie Beverly to Marvin Gaye, this juicy peach cobbler is a snap to make and highlights summer’s favourite fruit, peaches! This recipe is so easy to follow and looks absolutely beautiful, so don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to summer staple.
For more versatile meal ideas for all of your summer trips and outdoor events, visit bebeefprepared.com.
