Barbecue season is upon us and now’s the time to cook up some fun ideas on the grill. So we’ve gathered a list of basic tools and rules to help you enjoy one of summer’s simple pleasures: cooking on the barbecue!
Tip 1: The right equipment
From novice to expert, here are the tools you need to grill like a chef:
• A long-handled steel brush to clean the grill
• Long-handled tongs and a cloth, to grease grill.
• Oven mitts
• A long-handled basting brush
• A spray water bottle to dampen hot flames
Tip 2: Preheat and clean the grill
Always make sure your grill is scraped clean. A steel brush with a long handle is best for this task. First, preheat the grill for about 15 minutes and brush the grill when hot – foods tend to scrape off better this way. Brush the grill again once you’ve finished cooking and before it cools down.
Turn on the barbecue at maximum heat for about 15 minutes before you begin cooking any foods. You know the grill is ready when you can only keep your hand over the grill for 4 or 5 seconds.
Tip 3: Oil the grill
To keep foods from sticking to the grill and to imprint those great grill marks, generously oil the grill before cooking. Use tongs and an oiled kitchen cloth to grease grill.
Tip 4: Trim excess fat from meats
A thin layer of fat (about 0.5 cm) is enough to add flavour to grilled meats. Not only is less fat healthier, it also helps avoid dangerously high flames when the fat melts into the fire.
Tip 5: Do not prick, pierce or stab meat while grilling
It’s best to use tongs or a slotted turner with a long handle to flip the meat or any other foods you may be cooking. This helps the meat maintain its natural juices and tenderness. Use tongs instead of a fork to remove meat from grill.
Tip 6: Use a meat thermometer
A meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. By checking meat temperature, you can be certain that your meat is properly cooked and ready to enjoy.