Grilling is one of the best pastimes in the summer season, where you can enjoy having delicious meals with your friends and family in the most fun-filled way. Since summer is near, deciding how you will spice up your BBQ parties and grills this year is better. Knowing a few tips always helps in leveling up your BBQ game; that’s why this article is for you. It talks about ten unique tips to make your BBQ sessions worthwhile.
Experiment with Different Marinades and Rubs This Time
Marinades and rubs are a great way to add flavor and moisture to your grilled meats. Marinades typically consist of an acid (such as lemon juice or vinegar), oil, and seasonings, while rubs are dry mixtures of herbs and spices. It is better to consider the flavor you want and the type of meat you’ll be grilling when you are deciding which marinade to get. For example, a citrus marinade pairs well with seafood, while a spicy rub is excellent for pork or chicken.
Clean the Grill Grates
Cleaning the grill grates after each use is essential for maintaining the grill’s performance and preventing flare-ups. You should use a grill brush to get rid of charred debris and a damp cloth to wipe the grates. If you want to clean your grill deep, it is best to heat the grill for 10-15 minutes and then use a grill brush to scrub it.
Try Grilling Vegetables
Grilling isn’t only for meat; vegetables are equally delicious when grilled over an open flame and used as a topping or a side dish. You can grill vegetables by simply brushing them with oil and seasonings and placing them directly on the grill grates. Popular grilled vegetables include zucchini, peppers, onions, and corn on the cob.
Use Charcoal or Wood for Extra Flavor
Going for charcoal or wood-fired grills this time adds an extra level of smoky flavor to your grilled dishes. Charcoal grills are affordable and widely available, while wood-fired grills offer a unique flavor and aroma. When using charcoal or wood, it’s important to preheat the grill and wait for the coals to turn gray before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
Invest in a Quality Grill
Investing in a quality grill is essential for a successful grilling experience. You may consider going through reviews for different grills like the Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg when looking for a new grill to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. A quality grill will not only last longer but will also provide a better grilling experience.
Get Creative with Toppings
Adding unique toppings to your grilled dishes can take them to the next level. For example, topping a grilled burger with avocado, bacon, and a fried egg can create a flavor explosion. Grilled pineapple can add a sweet and tangy element to chicken or pork dishes. However, you can experiment further with other toppings and combinations to find your favorite flavor profiles.
Try Grilled Seafood
You can try grilled seafood as a delicious alternative to the common meat you use at any BBQ. Fish like salmon, tuna, and swordfish can be grilled for a few minutes on each side until cooked through. Shrimp and scallops can be skewered and grilled for a few minutes until opaque and slightly charred. Brush your seafood with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavorful and healthy dish.
Preheat the Grill
You must always preheat your grill when barbecuing to ensure your food is evenly cooked and does not stick. Heat your grill for 10-15 minutes before placing the meat on the grates. Doing that will help sear the meat, lock in juices, and create a flavorful crust.
Use a Meat Tenderizer
You would have noticed that tough cuts of meat like flank steak and skirt steak take time to become tender, so you can benefit from using a meat tenderizer. A meat tenderizer can help break down the meat’s muscle fibers, producing a more tender and flavorful final product. So, it will shorten the cooking time and make your grilled meat tender and juicer.
Don’t Forget the Sides and Condiments
A successful summer grilling experience isn’t just about the main dish – sides, and condiments can make all the difference. Serving fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and homemade sauces with grilled meats is better. Some popular condiments include BBQ sauce, mustard, and chimichurri sauce. Remember to serve cold beverages to refresh your guests on hot summer days.
Conclusion
To summarize, you can have the best time of your life this summer season by opting for BBQ parties this year. However, you can only attain that if you know the right tips this article discusses. So, take these tips as a guide and use them to surprise your friends by spicing up the BBQ party at your place this year.