Sizzling hints and tips for perfectly grilled sausages and burgers!

As the weather warms up and the bank holiday weekend approaches, many of us are eager to fire up the grill and enjoy a delicious outdoor feast. And what better way to kick off the BBQ season than with some juicy sausages and mouth-watering burgers? To help you make the most of your bank holiday BBQ, we've put together some top tips and hints to ensure your Co-op sausages and burgers turn out perfectly grilled and bursting with flavour. So grab your tongs, don your apron, and let's get grilling!

Prep is Key: Before you start grilling, make sure you're fully prepared. Take your sausages and burgers out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them cook more evenly and ensure they're juicy and flavourful. Additionally, season your meat with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices before grilling for maximum flavour.

Get the Right Heat: Achieving the right temperature on your grill is crucial for cooking sausages and burgers to perfection. For sausages, start with medium heat, as high heat can cause them to burst. For burgers, preheat your grill to high heat to get a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered with white ash before cooking.

Oil Your Grates: To prevent your sausages and burgers from sticking to the grill grates, make sure to oil them before cooking. Use a pair of tongs to hold a folded paper towel soaked in oil and rub it over the grates. This will create a non-stick surface and make flipping your meat easier.

^{Prices are valid 19/04/2023 to 09/05/2023. Subject to availability and change. Offer includes Co-op 4 Beef Quarter Pounder Burgers 454g and Co-op Irresistible Cumberland Sausages 400g. While stocks last. Participating stores only. Varieties as stocked. Images are for illustrative purposes only - actual product may vary.}

Mind the Flip: When it's time to flip your sausages or burgers, resist the urge to press down on them with a spatula. This can cause the juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Instead, use your tongs to gently flip them and let them cook on the other side until done. Avoid constant flipping, as it can make your meat lose its natural juices.

Check for Doneness: To ensure your sausages and burgers are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. For sausages, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C), while burgers should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium or 165°F (74°C) for well-done. Remember to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone for an accurate reading.

Rest Your Meat: Once your sausages and burgers are cooked to your desired doneness, resist the temptation to dig in right away. Allow them to rest for a few minutes off the grill to let the juices redistribute and ensure a juicy bite. Tent them with foil to keep them warm while resting.

Get Creative with Toppings: One of the best things about sausages and burgers is the endless array of toppings you can add to customize your meal. From classic favourites like ketchup, mustard, and pickles to more adventurous options like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and avocado slices, the possibilities are endless. Let your creativity run wild and experiment with different combinations to elevate your BBQ to the next level!

Don't Forget the Sides: While sausages and burgers take the spotlight at a BBQ, don't forget to round out your meal with some delicious sides. Serve up classic favourites like coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob, or get creative with grilled veggies