Barbecue is a universal language of flavour. While the techniques, ingredients, and spices vary across cultures, the love for grilled food unites us all. From Japan’s meticulous yakitori to the bold flavors of South Africa’s braai, let’s take a journey through some of the world’s most iconic BBQ traditions—and explore how our products can help you recreate these flavours at home!

1. Japan: Yakitori and Yakiniku

Yakitori is a Japanese staple where skewered chicken is grilled to perfection over binchotan charcoal, which burns at an exceptionally high temperature for clean, flavourful cooking. Each bite is seasoned simply with salt or a tare (soy-based sauce).

Yakiniku, on the other hand, is a lively, communal grilling experience. Small, bite-sized cuts of meat and vegetables are cooked on tabletop grills and paired with dipping sauces like miso or sesame.

How to Try This at Home:

• Try the GRLLR Shichirin Table Grills for authentic Japanese grilling. Its compact, traditional design is ideal for both yakitori and yakiniku.
• Pair with yakitori skewers and premium charcoal products, including binchotan alternatives.
• Don’t forget the dipping sauces—our recipe collection has plenty of ideas to get you started!

2. Korea: Tabletop BBQ and Banchan Bliss

Korean BBQ is a culinary art where marinated meats like bulgogi (sweet soy beef) and galbi (short ribs) take center stage. These are cooked on a tabletop grill, surrounded by an array of banchan (side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and spicy bean sprouts.

How to Try This at Home:

• Pair the GRLLR Korean Barbecue Cook Unit designed for the Tokyo Shichirin with your table grill setup for a seamless Korean BBQ experience.
• Use premium marinade kits to craft authentic flavours.
• Serve alongside a traditional banchan spread to complete your meal!

3. South Africa: The Braai Tradition

A braai is more than just a barbecue; it’s a social event. South Africans grill over wood or charcoal, creating bold flavours with spices and rubs. From boerewors (a coiled sausage) to grilled lamb chops, the dishes are robust and satisfying.

How to Try This at Home:

• Use wood charcoal products for that signature braai flavor.
• Try out spice rubs to season lamb, beef, or boerewors.
• Pair your meal with South African sides like pap (maize porridge) or chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

4. Brazil & Argentina: Churrasco and Asado

South America’s BBQ traditions are a carnivore’s dream. In Brazil, churrasco involves skewered meats cooked over open flames. Meanwhile, Argentina’s asado focuses on beef cuts cooked slowly over glowing embers, seasoned with nothing more than salt and paired with chimichurri.

How to Try This at Home:

• Our skewer ring for the GRLLR Ember Pro Kamado makes churrasco-style grilling effortless.
• For asado and other South American-style BBQs, our Ember Kamados product range provides the perfect combination of heat control and versatility.
• Don’t forget the chimichurri sauce!

5. USA: Regional BBQ Wonders

American BBQ is as diverse as the country itself, with each region adding its unique twist. Here are some distinct US bbq traditions:

Southern BBQ: Think smoked pork shoulder, ribs, and brisket cooked low and slow.

Kansas City BBQ: Known for its sweet, tangy sauces and smoked beef or pork.

Texas BBQ: A beef lover’s paradise, with dry-rubbed brisket taking center stage.

How to Try This at Home:

• The GRLLR Ember Pro Kamado is the ultimate grill for perfecting low-and-slow cooking techniques, whether you’re smoking brisket or grilling ribs.
• Use regional BBQ sauces and rubs to replicate Southern, Kansas City, or Texas flavors.
• Try out brisket prep kits for a foolproof start to Texas-style BBQ.

6. Australia: Shrimp on the Barbie and Beyond

Australian barbecue often features seafood, particularly prawns, but lamb chops and sausages are also popular. Barbecue there is about simplicity and letting fresh ingredients shine.

How to Try This at Home:

• The GRLLR Prime Gas BBQs offer the versatility needed to grill everything from seafood to lamb chops. Its design ensures even heat distribution for perfect results.
• Use the grill plates specially made to fit our Prime Gas BBQs to perfectly sear shrimp or seafood without burning them.
• Try out Aussie-inspired marinades for lamb chops or sausages.

7. Turkey: Kebabs Over Coals

Turkey’s grilling tradition is all about kebabs—from minced meat skewers to chunks of lamb or chicken. These are often cooked over open flames and paired with flatbreads and tangy yogurt sauces.

How to Try This at Home:

• Our Ember Kamados product range is ideal for Turkish-style grilling, offering precise control over heat for perfectly cooked kebabs. The GRLLR Dome Kettle offers similar results, for a more budget friendly barbecue option.
• Experiment with spice blends like sumac, paprika, and cumin for authentic flavors.
• Serve with warm flatbreads and a dollop of garlic yogurt.

Make Your BBQ Global

No matter which BBQ tradition inspires you, the right tools and ingredients make all the difference. With our extensive product range and guides you can bring the flavours of the world to your backyard.