Smart BBQing Tips

It’s summer! That means it’s time to pull out the grill and make yourself (or your friends and family) some BBQ. Cooking well over open flames certainly takes some skill–and a lot of safety. Of course, if you read through the helpful BBQ tips we’ve shared below, you’re already halfway to having an excellent cookout. Get fired up–it’s grilling season!

Get the Right BBQ

This may seem like a no-brainer. Still, while there’s nothing wrong with a gas grill, a charcoal grill is what will make that summer bbq sizzle just a little bit sweeter. That’s because charcoal grills give off that signature smoky flavour you just can’t get with gas. Additionally, insure that your charcoal grill has a lid to help lock in the temperature and the flavour. Also, having a lid over open flames will help keep the area around you safe. It doesn’t hurt to have a bucket of water nearby your charcoal grill just in case.

Use the Right Fuel

Any local store will sell you charcoal. To BBQ like a master, you’ll want to experiment with different kinds. Real grill masters have also been known to experiment with different types of wood chips (mixed in with charcoal) to create different smoky flavours that can also add sweetness to meat, chicken, and even fish.

Experiment with Flavour

Grilling is a great opportunity to experiment with flavour. If you’re not comfortable experimenting with different charcoals and woods, you can instead experiment with rubs and marinades on your food. Don’t be afraid to try different things–it’s what grilling is all about!

Cook at the Right Time

It’s hard to be patient when it comes to cooking - especially if you’re hungry. However, it’s important to note that good BBQ takes time and constant vigilance. Don’t cook while the flames are still leaping out of your grill. Wait until they die down, but the coals are ashy grey and glowing brightly. Additionally, remember that to BBQ well, you need to control the heat. Having a lid in place will help with this. Never try to rush the process as it may result in serious injury.

Get a Clean Start

Have you used your grill before but didn’t clean it? Insure that before you start any grilling, you thoroughly clean your grate with a stiff brush. It will help to keep your food stay as clean as possible and it reduces the risk of any contamination-related issues. It also insures neat grill marks so that your food looks just as pretty as it tastes!

Have the Right Tools

A successful BBQ means having the right tools on hand. Make sure you have everything lined up before you start to grill. This includes the right griller top, your grill lid, any baskets and clamps that are required, tongs, and clean plates for your finished food. This summer, stay smart when you BBQ. It’s important to stay safe around grilling equipment and to have the right tools at the ready–but you should also have some fun and experiment with making great food! After all, that’s what grilling season is all about.