Barbeque Island -- it sounds like the next Disney movie, but it's actually one of the latest ideas in
outdoor kitchens. Barbeque islands are meticulously designed, ultra-convenient outdoor kitchens that are rapidly rising in popularity as they turn grilling from a lonely activity that a guy does while the rest of his party sips wine in the kitchen to a social, fun experience that everyone can get in on.
An
outdoor kitchen can be designed to fit whatever specifications you desire and built by professional contractors -- or, you can purchase one of many prefabricated versions. Whichever route you take, like any room in the house, the best way to make an outdoor kitchen
yours is to accessorize it! Here are some of the most popular and functional outdoor kitchen accessories for any grillmaster.
Spice Racks
It sounds like a pretty forgone conclusion, but you'd be amazed how many grillers leave the spices inside -- or just bring out a bowl of some premixed blend to sprinkle on. No more! With any of several outdoor-save spice racks that can survive the weather as well as occasional curious wildlife, you can extemporize with your grilling just like you do in your indoor kitchen.
Turkey Fryers
Frying a turkey isn't just for Thanksgiving anymore -- but just because it's called a turkey fryer doesn't mean it's only good for gobblers. Anything that can be deepfried can be cooked in a turkey fryer, from tempura cod to popcorn shrimp to onion rings. Building a permanent spot for a turkey fryer in your outdoor kitchen takes the danger out of the home
and adds a second excellent cooking option to the traditional barbeque island.
Bartending Centers
Who doesn't love the idea of sipping an ice-cold mixed drink on a hot summer day? A quality bartending center includes everything from plenty of space to store and organize your favorite alcohols to a minifreezer for ice and a powerful ice-crushing blender to make the perfect margarita. With a bartending center on your barbeque island, your outdoor kitchen goes from a mere social space to a full-fledged party zone!
The ways in which a clever chef can personalize their outdoor kitchens are myriad, but one thing is always true: focus on the fun first, and the food will surely follow!