Here at Bayside BBQ’s & Outdoor Centre in Wynnum West, Brisbane, we’re passionate about all things barbecue. But sometimes, you crave a taste of something a little different, a flavour explosion that takes your taste buds on a journey south. That’s where the magic of Cajun & Southern BBQ cooking comes in.

These two regional styles, while distinct, share a love for bold spices, slow-cooked meats, and flavourful sauces. So, fire up your smoker or grill, dust off your favourite rubs, and get ready to experience the taste of the American South at home!

The Allure of Cajun Cuisine

Cajun cooking hails from Louisiana, a melting pot of French, African, and Native American influences. It’s known for its fiery kick, thanks to liberal use of cayenne pepper, and its reliance on “the holy trinity” of vegetables: bell pepper, onion, and celery.

A Cajun Classic: Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a one-pot wonder that combines rice, meat (typically chicken, sausage, or shrimp), and the holy trinity. It’s a versatile dish, allowing you to customise it with your favourite proteins and vegetables. Here’s a simple jambalaya recipe to get you started:

• Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped green capsicum (bell pepper)
• 1 cup chopped celery
• Half a kilo of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Half a kilo smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

• Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion, capsicum, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken and sausage, and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is cooked through and fluffy.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve hot.

Southern Comfort: Slow-Cooked BBQ Brisket

Southern BBQ is all about slow-cooking meats to tender perfection. Brisket, a cut from the lower breast of the cow, is a popular choice, yielding melt-in-your-mouth results when cooked low and slow.

Here at Bayside BBQ’s & Outdoor Centre, we offer a wide range of smokers and grills perfect for slow-cooking. We also carry a variety of rubs and marinades to infuse your brisket with flavour.

Tips for the Perfect Brisket:

• Choose the right cut: Select a well-marbled brisket for optimal flavour and tenderness.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with the rub! Use a commercial rub or create your own blend with spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
• Low and slow: The key to perfect brisket is patience. Smoke or grill your brisket at a low temperature (around 107 Celsius) for several hours.
• Resting is crucial: Allow your brisket to rest for at least an hour after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavourful and succulent final product.

Bayside BBQ’s & Outdoor Centre: Your One-Stop Shop for All Things BBQ

At Bayside BBQ’s & Outdoor Centre, we’re your local experts in everything barbecue. From top-of-the-line grills and smokers to a vast selection of rubs, sauces, and accessories, we have everything you need to create delicious Cajun & Southern BBQ inspired dishes in your own backyard.

Our friendly staff is always happy to answer your questions, recommend products, and share grilling tips and recipes. So, come visit us today and let’s turn your backyard into a flavour haven!

For more information call our friendly team at Bayside BBQ’s & Outdoor Centre on 07 3396 3200 or email your enquiry. You can find our showroom conveniently located at 393 Wondall Rd, Tingalpa.