6 Things to Remember When Grilling

 

When it's time to fire up the grill, remember to read through some barbecuing essentials. We've got a few recipes and tips, too:

 

1 Choose Your Meat Well

Choose cuts that have a little more fat and aren't so lean. Grilling means cooking over direct heat-fat not only adds extra flavor, but also helps keep the meat moist. Meat continues to cook after grilling. Barbecue it until just about done but not quite, then let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving-this allows the residual heat to continue cooking the meat. This also gives the yummy juices time to be reabsorbed by the meat, ensuring tender, juicy cuts every time.

 

Use skin-on, bone-in chicken for barbecuing-the skin and bones protect the meat from drying out.

 

 

2 Gas vs. Charcoal Grillers Don't Deliver the Same Results

Gas and electric grillers are super efficient and easy to use, but for that distinct smoky flavor, nothing beats an old-fashioned charcoal grill.

 

 

3 Don't Forget the Marinade and the Rub  

Marinating meat doesn't only add flavor, it also tenderizes the meat. Marinades are best for tougher, flatter cuts.

 

Spice rubs give larger cuts of meat a crisp, savory crust. You'll get a more intense flavor the earlier you apply the rub before grilling.

 

Sauces that contain sugar will darken and burn meat easily, so make sure to baste only on the last few minutes of grilling.

 

 

 

4 Grilling Fish Involves Different Rules

The trick to grilling whole fish is to make sure the grilling surface is hot and well-oiled before placing the fish on it. Do not move it around; the skin's natural oils will eventually make it easy to flip the fish when it's done. Still nervous? Wrap the fish in aluminum foil before grilling. You'll know your fish is done when the flesh is opaque and the meat flakes easily when prodded with a fork.

 

 

 

5 Grill Fruits and Veggies!

Cut vegetables into large chunks to make sure they don't fall through the grates. You can also use a grill basket. Oil the vegetables lightly to prevent them from sticking to the grill. Try grilling fruits, too-it's a great way to enhance their natural flavor.

 

 

 

 

6 Always Go for Safety First

Wash your hands after handling raw meat and don't reuse plates that have been used for uncooked meat. Don't let meat sit out at room temperature for more than an hour. Have a glass of water or a spray bottle nearby just in case your grill flares up.

 

 

 

Tips appeared as part of a feature in the April 2015 issue of Yummy magazine