Easter is a fantastic time to get together with friends and family, enjoy the outdoors, and have a barbecue. If you want to take your Easter weekend to the next level, consider upgrading to a wood-fired barbecue for food with a delicious smoky flavour.

Keep reading to explore the benefits of using a wood-fired barbecue, how to choose the right one, and some tips and tricks to make the most of your Easter weekend.

Why choose a wood-fired barbecue?

Delicious grilled meat with vegetables sizzling over the coals

There are many benefits to using a wood-fired barbecue over a traditional gas or charcoal grill.

Firstly, the flavour. The smoke from the wood will add a unique flavour to your food that you can’t get from other grills. Whether you’re grilling meat, fish, vegetables or fruit, the smoky taste will make your dishes stand out.

It’s healthier, too. Wood-fired barbecues burn cleaner than gas or charcoal grills, releasing fewer harmful chemicals and toxins into the environment and your food.

What’s more, it’s a more sustainable option. Wood is a renewable resource that can be sourced locally, reducing the carbon footprint of your barbecue.

Choosing the best wood-fired barbecue

Group of friends gathered around a table in a garden on a summer evening to share a meal and have a good time together

When choosing the perfect wood-fired barbecue for your Easter weekend, there are a few things to consider.

  • Size: Consider how many people you will be cooking for and choose a barbecue that can easily accommodate that number.
  • Materials: Look for a barbecue made from high-quality materials like cast iron or stainless steel. These materials are durable and designed to last for many years.
  • Wood type: Different types of wood produce different flavours, so consider what kind of food you cook and choose a wood that complements it.

Tips and tricks for using a wood-fired barbecue 

man cooking seafood on a barbecue grill in the backyard on a sunny day.

Once you’ve chosen the ideal wood-fired barbecue, here are some tips and tricks for using it to its full potential:

  • Start with suitable wood: As previously mentioned, different types of wood produce different flavours. Along with choosing the right wood, you must ensure you get the moisture level right. Just like burning wood for heat, you should only use well-seasoned or kiln-dried timber with less than 20% moisture content for the best results.
  • Control the temperature: Wood-fired barbecues can take longer to heat up than charcoal or gas grills, so be prepared for this and give yourself plenty of time. Once the temperature is correct, use the vents and dampers to control it throughout the cooking process.
  • Use the right tools: Invest in a good set of barbecue tools, including tongs, a spatula, and a meat thermometer. These will help you cook your food perfectly and prevent mishaps.
  • Keep it clean: After each use, clean your wood-fired barbecue thoroughly to avoid any build-up of ash or debris. This will keep it in good condition and ensure it lasts many years.
  • Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things with your wood-fired barbecue. You can cook everything from pizza to dessert on it, so get creative and have fun.
  • Try smoking your food: Smoking your food can take your wood-fired barbecue to the next level. Smoking involves cooking your food at a low temperature for a more extended time, allowing the smoke from the wood to infuse the food with flavour.

Direct Stoves recommends...

Morso Forno Outdoor Oven

Morso Forno Outdoor Oven

Shop Now

Are you tired of settling for mediocre outdoor meals? Then, look no further than the Morso Forno outdoor oven. This versatile appliance is more than just a grill – it’s a gateway to a world of mouth-watering culinary creations. From succulent steaks to perfect salmon and homemade pizzas to mouth-watering lamb kebabs, the possibilities are truly endless with this fabulous outdoor oven. 

Don’t settle for ordinary outdoor cooking – elevate your culinary experience with the Morso Forno outdoor oven. Crafted from double-coated cast iron, the Morso Forno is built to last. You can trust that this outdoor oven will stand the test of time, providing you and your loved ones with unforgettable meals for years. 

Take your outdoor meals even further with the Morso Forno Deluxe Set, including an outdoor table, Tuscan grill, and accessories to create lovely meals in the sunshine. 

Morso 71

Morso Grill 71 Table Outdoor Barbecue

Shop Now

Experience grilling like never before with the Morso 71. This high-end barbecue is crafted from the finest materials. It is perfect for achieving the perfect sear on your steak or that coveted char on your vegetables.

Cast iron is the perfect material for grilling, thanks to its superior heat distribution and retention properties. It ensures your food is cooked evenly, without hot or cold spots. What’s more, the tiny pores absorb flavours and fats, resulting in unparalleled taste and aroma.

When the grill becomes too hot, swing the grate away from the wood pit with ease, thanks to the innovative design. This feature will ensure your food is perfectly cooked without any unwanted burnt bits.

Not only does this premium barbecue offer superior performance, but it’s also effortless to maintain. A quick clean after use and a coating of neutral cooking is all you need to keep it in top condition all summer long.

Invest in the Morso 71 Table Outdoor Barbecue and elevate your grilling game. Compatible with wood and charcoal, it’ll allow you to experience the ultimate in flavour, texture, and presentation with every meal.

Esse Garden Stove and Outdoor Grill

Esse Garden Stove And Outdoor Grill

Shop Now

Enjoy the ultimate outdoor comfort and style with the Esse Garden stove and outdoor grill. This enclosed wood-burning stove is designed to keep you warm and cosy while enjoying your favourite garden corner long into the evening.

Crafted with the finest materials and hand-built in Great Britain by Esse, this garden stove is a true masterpiece. Made with UK steel and cast iron parts, it’s designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor use. It is complete with a supplied flue pipe, ensuring hassle-free installation.

The hotplate top of the Garden Stove is a practical feature and offers endless culinary possibilities. Lift the hotplate top, and you’ll discover a grill perfect for cooking up your favourite barbecue snacks or keep it down to heat pans or kettles.

Thanks to the detachable wheels, you can easily move the Garden Stove into the garage or shed once it’s cooled. This feature ensures that you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your Garden Stove in any location without any hassle.

Elevate your outdoor experience this Easter with the Esse Garden Stove. It’s not just a stove; it’s a statement piece that will transform your garden into a luxurious outdoor oasis.

Up your outdoor cooking game with a wood-fired barbecue from Direct Stoves

We offer a wide range of outdoor ovens and barbecues with something for everybody, whether you're enjoying a quiet weekend with family or a big gathering this Easter.

What's more, we offer free delivery to the UK mainland, a range of finance options, and no-hassle returns.

Got a question? Our friendly team are always happy to help. Contact them today at [email protected] or call 0161 376 4191.

Shop wood-fired and charcoal barbecues at Direct Stoves now

For more stove buying advice, information and news, explore the Direct Stoves blog…

A Guide to Outdoor Fireplaces | Outdoor Oven Guide: Should You Buy a Pizza Oven or a BBQ? | Wood-Fired & Charcoal BBQ Buying Guide