2017 Nanjing Outdoor BBQ: A Memorable Autumn Weekend Getaway363

2017. The year I finally ticked "epic Nanjing autumn BBQ" off my bucket list. The crisp air, the vibrant foliage, and the promise of smoky meats – it was the perfect recipe for an unforgettable weekend. My friends and I, a seasoned group of outdoor enthusiasts, had been planning this for months. We’d scoured maps, consulted weather forecasts ad nauseam, and debated the merits of different grilling techniques until we were practically experts. The location itself was key. We needed a spot accessible yet secluded, with ample space for setting up, and of course, stunning scenery. After much deliberation, we settled on a beautiful spot along the banks of the Qinhuai River, a location offering a mix of tranquility and accessibility.

The preparations began weeks in advance. First, the menu. This wasn't just any BBQ; this was a culinary expedition. We meticulously crafted a menu that balanced classic BBQ staples with some adventurous additions. Tender marinated pork belly, succulent lamb chops, and juicy sausages were non-negotiable. But we also wanted to incorporate some local Nanjing flavors. We decided on a delicious spiced duck, a nod to Nanjing’s famed duck dishes, and some salt-and-pepper prawns, reflecting the city’s coastal influences. And of course, no BBQ is complete without an array of fresh vegetables – bell peppers, onions, corn on the cob – all destined for the grill.

The logistical planning was equally important. We created a detailed list of equipment, meticulously ensuring we had everything we needed: grills (we opted for two, a charcoal grill for that authentic smoky flavor and a gas grill for easier temperature control), charcoal, lighter fluid, tongs, spatulas, skewers, serving platters, plates, cutlery, cups, napkins – you name it. We even remembered a portable cooler filled with ice, essential for keeping our drinks and perishable items cold throughout the day. Transporting all this gear required some strategic planning, involving several trips and a sizable SUV.

The day itself dawned bright and clear, a perfect autumn day with a gentle breeze. We arrived at our chosen spot early, eager to get started. The first task was setting up the grills. This proved to be more challenging than anticipated, as the ground was slightly uneven, requiring some creative placement and the use of strategically placed rocks to level the grills. But we persevered, and soon the satisfying hiss of lighter fluid meeting charcoal filled the air.

As the coals heated, we tackled the marinades. The aroma of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and spices filled the air, a tantalizing prelude to the feast to come. While the meats marinated, we prepared the vegetables, meticulously cleaning and cutting them into grill-ready pieces. Then, the real work began. The meticulous art of BBQ unfolded. We carefully placed the meats onto the hot grills, monitoring the cooking process with the expertise only seasoned BBQ enthusiasts could muster. The sizzle of the meat, the occasional burst of flame, and the tantalizing smell – it was a sensory overload in the best possible way.

Beyond the grilling, there were other aspects that contributed to the day’s success. We brought along a portable Bluetooth speaker, which played a curated playlist of upbeat music, adding to the festive atmosphere. We also brought along some outdoor games – a frisbee, a volleyball – to provide some entertainment between grilling sessions. We also brought along blankets and chairs, creating a comfortable and relaxing space for us to sit and enjoy the fruits of our labor. The Qinhuai River provided a stunning backdrop to our picnic, the autumn leaves painted in a vibrant spectrum of reds, oranges, and yellows.

The food was, without a doubt, the highlight of the day. The pork belly, tender and juicy, practically melted in the mouth. The lamb chops, perfectly charred on the outside and succulent on the inside, were a testament to our grilling skills. Even the duck, a culinary adventure for us, turned out surprisingly well, the spices perfectly complementing the rich flavor of the meat. And the prawns? Crispy and flavorful, they disappeared in minutes.

But it wasn't just about the food. It was about the camaraderie, the shared experience, and the simple pleasure of spending a beautiful autumn day with good friends, surrounded by stunning scenery. We laughed, we shared stories, and we created memories that will last a lifetime. As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the Qinhuai River, we packed up our things, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and contentment.

The 2017 Nanjing outdoor BBQ was more than just a meal; it was an adventure, a testament to the power of friendship, and a reminder of the simple joys of life. It was a perfect blend of meticulous planning, delicious food, stunning scenery, and the camaraderie of good company. It's a weekend I'll cherish for years to come, and a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the simplest ones.

2025-04-09

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