Embrace your inner caveman!

Now the sun has shown its shining face we are once again swept with summertime fever. With the sun come images of BBQs and picnics, and my taste buds start tingling at the thought of it! BBQs and picnics are wonderful ways of sharing food and experiences with friends and family better than many other eating events.

I am keen on BBQs and picnics because of the link they have with the origins of cooking and eating. If we imagine our distant ancestors, the cave men, all they did were eat BBQs and picnics. It seems not to be a coincidence that the men of the family are always drawn to manning the fire and cooking the meat. BBQs especially are the epitome of simple but wonderful food. Most comprise meat, salad, bread and beer- a perfect combination for the modern day caveman. There is nothing fancy about a BBQ even if the host has tried to make it that way. Usually because of the fact at least one sausage has fallen into the charcoal, the Great British breeze will have blown something onto the floor to be snuffled up by the dog, and finally because of the constant threat of wasps chasing you and your food! I think it is important to remember our origins and keep in mind the first chefs who walked the earth.

Another summer tradition is that of picnics. They share links with ancient eating as well, mainly from the image of everyone sitting on the floor sharing the food that has been gathered together. When thinking philosophically about these summertime treats, I am drawn to the fact that they all come hand in hand with the thought of sharing and that they keep us tied to our distant relatives. Food has always brought people together and in summer it allows you to enjoy the great outdoors at the same time. I once studied a philosopher who believed happiness was brought by nature and an appreciation of nature. I believe enjoying food and nature whilst feeling connecting to the first men who walked the earth, doing activities that they could have done themselves, is extremely good for the soul. Although cavemen would not have sat around on gingham blankets with wicker baskets I am sure they would have liked a scotch egg or two!

Embrace your inner cave man, light a fire and enjoy some great food with friends and family! Welcome to the summer!