The 4th of July. While the world may be curious about what Independence Day is all about, Americans know exactly what matters most: grilling, fireworks, and quality time with family and friends.
On our last trip to the States, we had the chance to meet some incredible BBQ legends who truly inspired us. And while we may call it a braai and they call it a BBQ, one thing was clear... we all end up smelling like smoke, laughing with our people, and gathering around the fire. And really, isn’t that what the 4th of July is all about?
This holiday is peak BBQ season, and whether you're planning a backyard party, a beach cookout, or a rooftop gathering to watch the fireworks, the real question is, “What should I cook on the grill?”
We’ve rounded up the best 4th of July BBQ recipes. These are all crowd-pleasers that are quick to prep, easy to cook, and absolutely delicious. They’re the must-have dishes for your Independence Day menu, from classic hot dogs to flavorful sides. We've also added some fun South African versions to classic dishes.
1. Classic Grilled Hot Dogs
No 4th of July BBQ is complete without the all-American hot dog. It’s quick, customizable, and always a hit with guests of all ages.
What You’ll Need:
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Quality sausages
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Hot dog buns
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Mustard, ketchup, relish, chopped onions
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Optional: Grilled bacon, cheddar cheese, jalapeños
While hot dogs are simple, flipping them with precision takes the right tool. The Donkey Tong 27" gives you the reach to turn dogs perfectly without burning your knuckles. They're ideal for grillers who like their food hot and their hands unburnt.
Pro Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Wrap your dogs in bacon and top with grilled onions and cheese for the ultimate loaded BBQ hot dog experience.
Fun fact: In South Africa, there’s a similar crowd-favorite to the classic hot dog called a boerie roll. This is a spiced sausage cooked over fire, served in a roll and usually topped with a homemade tomato-and-onion relish known as smoor. South Africans prefer cooking with fire, not gas.
2. All-American Burgers (with a Twist)
The grilled burger is a 4th of July staple for a reason. It's juicy, customizable, and completely satisfying. You can keep it classic with beef, or mix it up with turkey burgers, chicken patties, or even plant-based veggie burgers for your vegetarian guests.
Build the Perfect Burger:
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Brioche or sesame buns
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Your choice of patty (beef, turkey, chicken, veggie)
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Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion
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Cheese, crispy bacon
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BBQ sauce, mayo, mustard
The Donkey Tong 27" is made for burger duty. It's specially designed tong head slides effortlessly under patties, giving you the perfect flip without breaking or squashing them. Whether you're working with beef, chicken, or veggie burgers, you can count on a clean flip and a perfect burger every time.
Pro Tip: Set up a DIY burger bar so guests can build their own. This is a fun, interactive way to cater to every dietary preference.
3. Buffalo Chicken Wings
If you're looking for a grilled appetizer that disappears fast, Buffalo wings are the answer. These sticky, spicy, smoky chicken wings are the perfect pre-dinner snack (or even the main event, especially if you use Melinda's Spices).
For the Best Buffalo Wings, check out TFTI, but here's something to get you started:
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Chicken wings, drumettes, or flats
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Buffalo sauce
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Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
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Celery and carrot sticks on the side
The Donkey Tong 27" is built to handle your meat better than anything else on the grill. Its spatula-shaped head doubles as a clever sauce tool. Just pour your sauce on and pour as you go. With extra length to keep your hands safely away from the flames, it’s the smart way to bring the flavor without the burn.
Pro Tip: Grill over indirect heat and baste often for that crispy-skin, fall-off-the-bone texture.
Booyah's BBQ using his tong of choice
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob (with a Kick)
No 4th of July BBQ spread is complete without corn on the cob. It's sweet, smoky, and can be dressed up in countless ways. Our favorite is Mexican street corn style.
Ingredients:
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Fresh corn cobs, husked
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Butter, salt, chili powder
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Mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime wedges
Pro Tip: Wrap each cob in foil with a dab of butter and seasoning, then grill until tender and charred. Great for vegetarians and totally addictive.
Fun fact: In South Africa, we do something pretty similar. We call corn a mielie (pronounced mee-lee) and love it cooked right on the fire, finished off with a good slather of butter and salt.
Bonus Ideas for Your Independence Day Cookout:
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BBQ ribs or pulled pork sliders
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Watermelon and feta salad for a refreshing side
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S'mores on the grill for dessert
- Grilled veggie skewers (zucchini, mushrooms, and peppers)
The Best BBQ & Grilling Tools
When it comes to 4th of July BBQs, your tools should work as hard as you do, and that’s where Donkey Long Tong comes in. And don't forget, you need one for fire and one for food. The Donkey Long Tong 32" is extra-long, heavy-duty, and built to keep your hands cool while you take command of the coals. The Donkey Tong 27" is perfect for flipping burgers, turning corn, or handling anything hot off the grill, thanks to its uniquely designed head that grips with ease. These BBQ tongs aren’t just tools, they’re your ultimate grilling gear for the 4th of July.
Celebrate the 4th with Food, Fireworks, Family, and Friends
So whether you're firing up the grill in your backyard, heading to the park, or tailgating before the fireworks, these easy 4th of July BBQ recipes will make your day deliciously unforgettable.
At the end of the day, it’s all about spending time around the fire with the people you love. Whether you braai like we do in South Africa, BBQ in Texas, or simply call it grilling, we’re just happy to be celebrating a day this special with you.
Here’s to smoky flavors, cold drinks, and good times with great people. Happy Independence Day from our fire to yours!
