Grilling can be a relaxing way to cook a wonderful family meal. It’s so easy, that just about anyone can make something delicious. But when you’re ready to take your BBQ to the next level, the Coastal crew has some tips to help you avoid the more common grilling mistakes.
Control the Flames and Heat
Whether you’re using gas, charcoal, or pellets, fire and heat can either work in your favor or against you. Instead of going to the max, slow-cook everything. The Coastal crew met with Chef Matt Bennett to talk about low heat and how to cook the perfect steak on several types of grills.
Allow Everything to Cool (off the grill)
Even if your grill is off or cooling, anything you leave in there will continue to cook. Remove meat the minute it’s done and allow it to set (without being cut) for upwards of five minutes. Doing so will ensure the natural juices find their way back into the meat. What about veggies? Take those off the grill too to ensure they don’t get burned.
Use a Good Thermometer
Don’t skimp on the meat thermometer. This priceless tool will help you grill perfect burgers and meats. Some will even tell you whether the meat is rare, medium-rare, or well-done. This also helps you keep the lid to your BBQ closed to ensure proper smoking or cooking.
Cook Veggies First
Don’t cook the veggies with the meat. Instead, get them done first. Here’s a pro tip: boil or steam your veggies before you grill them. When you do, you can focus on giving your veggies a nice searing and smokey flavor instead of worried about how done they are. Additionally, this can help avoid stringy or spongy vegetables.
Employ Two Cooking Zones
If you have a briquette or wood-fired BBQ, or if you use gas, establish both a cool and hot side of the grill. For charcoal and wood, simply push your flammable materials to one side of the grill. On a gas grill, turn one side on low (or off), and the other to your desired temperature. This allows you to use the hot side to sear meats then slow-cook on the other side. This can also help avoid flare-ups that occur when grease hits flames.
Wear an Apron
Aprons not only keeps your clothes from getting splattered with grease, it also gives you a sort of uniform. Even if you’re not sure about your professional barbecue prowess, others will assume you’re a pro and appreciate all of your hard work.
Use Pans, Grilling Baskets, and Tinfoil
There is nothing wrong with using grill safe pans, skillets, grilling baskets, and foil in your backyard barbecue. These items make cooking so much easier. Plus, the results are often worth the extra dishes.
We Know Grilling at Coastal
From pellet and lump charcoal smokers to gas grills and more, you’ll find everything you need to grill like a pro at Coastal. That includes grill accessories, rubs, spices, sauces, and everything else your country needs.