The Naked Pappy

Inspired by Jamie Oliver's 'Oliver's Twist' cookshow aired on Channel 5 Mondays to Fridays, I dug out the BBQ pit and attempted to recreate the 'Wimbledon' episode where he whipped out grilled fish kebabs and grilled vegetables to follow. I drove down to NTUC, bought asparagus, australian eggplant (the fatter ones), zucchini, lemon and some essentials for the barbie. I was frustrated by the lack of mint leaves at the supermarket, so goodbye to the 'glass of lemonade spiced with mint bubble' in my head. Anyhows, slapped marinade (olive oil, salt, basil,lemon zest) on the fish, I took note it was noon when I began my adventure. Pit set up, fish, onions and zucchini skewered Oliver's style, I was on high!
Now, a little background, I live on the 13th floor in a HDB flat. I was unsure whether having a BBQ was legal, u know, lots of smoke and smell. I dont know and dont wish to know either. All I know: Oliver! Grilled fish kebabs, Grilled vegetables! Woohoo!
To play things safe, I thought I would just make a small fire so for one its easier to clean up and it shouldnt be heavy on smoke. Boy was I wrong! Flame + Charcoal = Lots of smoke, who cares how little charcoal there is! Result? Low heat and hazy kitchen. My food was slow to cook but hey my spirits werent crushed.
About three quarters of the cooking, my mom came home from tuition, alarmed by the amount of smoke that greeted her, she rushed into the kitchen 'Whats on fire!' There are reasons apart from the obvious that has my mom in such a panicky state, a story which I will leave for another blog entry. It was about 6:30pm when Im done. You should have a clue by now how weak that fire was.
Well, I must say my fish kebabs ran out rather fast, portions of the grilled vege is still on the table....Any takers?