The summer season is the perfect time to fire up the grill and invite everyone over for a fantastic barbecue. It may not keep the heat away, but it can definitely help bring up the mood and give everyone a chance to bond. However, grilling can be a little intimidating if it’s your first time or you’re a little rusty from taking a break during the previous seasons.
Have no fear. Here’s what you need to get your summer grilling skills in top shape.
The Basics Every Cook Needs to Know
Every cook needs several core elements that will at least guarantee a good BBQ. Here are some of the basic tips to keep in mind.
Be Mindful of the Grilling Temperatures
The grill needs to be hot to cook your food, but as with panfrying or other cooking methods, you can run into too much heat and overcook your selection. Try to tone down the temperature.
Gas grills are sometimes the simplest since they already have built-in controls. With a charcoal or wood-powered grill, limit how much material you’re putting in.
Monitor the Appearance and Internal Temperature
Your food can look well-done on the outside, even though the inside hasn’t been cooked. Closing the lid helps heat everything evenly, but it’s still best to keep an eye on the internal temperature. Investing in a meat thermometer is your best bet, especially when working with thicker cuts.
Season Your Food Generously
If there’s only one thing you have to remember from this list, it’s to season generously. Whether you’re using infused salts, herbs or browned butter, get your desired flavor onto the meat before it even hits the grill.
The only time you can skip seasoning is if you’ve marinated them the day before. The process offers deeper seasoning and good moisture retention.
Exercise Plenty of Patience
With summer in full swing, it’s easy to want to rush everything and get back in the house. However, you need to commit to your summer grilling and practice patience, especially if you’re feeding numerous people.
Stay hydrated throughout your grilling session. Make sure you’re under some shade, too, so you have that sun protection. You can also place a fan or two around the grilling area to help cool you down.
Curating Your Summer Grill Menu
Variety is king when it comes to grilling, so make sure you create a thoughtful selection. Here are tips for fleshing out your menu.
Choose Your Meats Wisely
Meat is the star of the show at your BBQ brunch or dinner. One of the main ways people consider a cut is if it fits the dish they’re making. For example, a skirt steak is great for Mexican dishes, while beef patties are essential for hamburgers. Here’s how you can assess what meats to choose:
1. Look for bone-in options: Bone-in meats create a richer, more meaty flavor, and some can retain moisture better. Focus on deboning once it’s off the grill.
2. Watch out for the marbling: Any fat in your meat will render and melt into the food while it’s getting grilled. Make sure you find a good balance of marbling when grocery shopping.
3. Consider the size: Size matters when it comes to your grilled meat, since it dictates how filling your meal will be and how long it will cook. You can opt for smaller and multiple cuts to reach the same volume, but it still depends on what you want your platter to look like.
Incorporate Seafood Options
Seafood can help provide a flavor break from your meats while still keeping you full. Skewered shrimp are typically most popular because they grill well, but you can also try salmon and tuna. Aside from being accessible, they offer great flavor that pairs well with the rest of your grill platter. Use thicker cuts so they don’t crumble on the grill grates.
Add Fruits and Veggies
Don’t knock grilled fruits and veggies out until you’ve tried them. The smoky flavor alongside the sweetness that options like cobbed corn and watermelon provide is unmatched when done right. Just remember to be more delicate with other foods like avocados and squashes since they can get mushy from the heat.
Remember Your Refreshments
Aside from focusing on what goes on the plates, think about what goes in the glasses. There are many summer refreshments you can easily prep and mix. For example, create a peach Aperol spritz by making peach simple syrup in advance and mixing the drinks when it’s time to sip.
Tips to Go From Beginner to a Pro Griller
Becoming a master at grilling can take time and experience, but there are a few techniques that can help you turn into a pro. Here are a few examples.
1. Remember to Mix and Match
You can have multiple meats, seafood, and veggies on the same skewer to create a more balanced and well-tasting dish. Hybrid dishes like bacon-wrapped shrimp or jalapeno poppers make great appetizers.
2. Prep and Assemble Early
If you’re cooking for lunchtime, it may be best to start as early as possible. Remember to remove your steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes or earlier before grilling to get them to room temperature. You should also preheat the grill before putting anything on it.
3. Pick the Right Grill for Your Set
Your chosen grill can make or break how your barbecue will taste. Here’s an overview of options:
1. Gas grill: Gas grills offer simplicity and convenience for their cooks because they are easy to use. It’s also ideal if you want to keep your meat’s flavor as-is.
2. Charcoal grill: If you’re craving a smoky BBQ platter, charcoal grills are the way to go. The only caveat is that controlling the temperature can be a bit more challenging.
3. Wood-fired grill: Wood-fired grills are eye-catching for their size and durability. You can cook a wide array of meats at once, and they end up with a more subtle smoky flavor.
4. Keep Your Grill Grates Oiled
It’s a common misconception that you have to flip your meat constantly when grilling to avoid sticking. The reality is that the grill grates simply need to be cleaned and oiled before cooking. Make sure you choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil.
5. Let Your Meats Rest After Grilling
As tempting as it may be to slice into your grilled steaks or take a bite right away, it’s best to let them rest for a bit. That way, you’re not letting any of the juices seep out all of a sudden. You’re also avoiding burning your tongue.
6. Don’t Shy Away From Dips
Seasoning is great and all, but you can go the extra mile with dips. A survey actually found that 35% of people are willing to replace a meal with their favorite ones, so know what your guests will love. Guacamole, salsa, and cheese dip are some popular options.
Get Ready for Summer Grilling
Becoming a pro at grilling can take time, but it’s possible with the right ingredients, information and attitude. Follow the basics and a few grilling secrets to take a few steps closer to a great barbecue. You’ll wow your loved ones with a plate full of grilled deliciousness!
