Mastering the Art of Grilling and Barbecuing: Essential Tips and Resources

Introduction

From watching my father and some of my friends' parents grill on balconies, to tending campfires, I've learned that practice truly makes perfect.

Learning Through Experience

I honed my skills by experimenting in the backyard and reading cookbooks. One memorable year, I prepared the best chicken ever by slow-roasting it in a Weber grill. Nowadays, YouTube is my go-to for learning new techniques, as I find it invaluable to watch someone execute a particular skill.

The Importance of Mastery

The most crucial thing is to get a grill and just start cooking. Even a small electric grill can make you a more frequent cooker. Although I now have a "real" BBQ with a separate fire box, I often revert to the electric grill for its ease of use. It's a quick 15 minutes to preheat and you're ready to start grilling. This convenience allows me to grill more often, and experimenting with various cooking methods is far more enjoyable when the setup is easy.

Mastering Heat and Flame

Charcoal enthusiasts, opt for real wood charcoal and use a chimney to ignite it. The difference in taste is significant. Additionally, experience is invaluable. Whether you opt for a simple BBQ or a grill, start cooking and don't be afraid to mess up. Each mistake teaches you something new about controlling heat, managing smoke, and finding the right cooking time for various meats.

Key Tips for Successful Grilling

1 Heat That Sucker Up!

A common issue with food sticking is that the grill is too cold when the food is added. Aim for a preheating temperature of about 450°F (230°C). The heat will drop once you open the grill, so only do it as needed. Another tip is to set one side of the grill hotter than the other for even cooking.

2 Clean the Grill

Clean the grill with a wire brush just before using, preheating it first to ensure any leftover food is well burnt. A clean grate prevents sticking and provides better grill marks. Ensure your grill grate is made of high-conducting material like cast iron or porcelain, as they will conduct heat better than caked-on food.

3 Oil the Grill

After cleaning, oil the grill using a wadded paper towel or a designated kitchen rag. Avoid strong-flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil as they tend to burn quickly. If using a gas grill, turn off the burners for a moment while greasing to reduce the risk of flames. A wire brush will also remove any black char or dust left from cleaning.

4 OSP… Oil, Salt, and Pepper

This technique, known as "OSP", involves coating your food with oil, season it with salt, and pepper, and letting it sit for 30 minutes before cooking. Meat should be brought to room temperature to allow for a gentler cooking process. Vegetables should be tossed in a mixing bowl with OSP.

5 Grill It Don’t Set It On Fire!

Many popular fast-food chains tout their "char grilled" dishes, but direct flame contact is a no-no. Ensure you can control the heat, as this is one of the most important aspects of grilling.

Conclusion: By following these tips, you can master the art of grilling and barbecuing. Get your gear ready, and enjoy the process of cooking great food outdoors.

For more information on grilling, check out the following resources:

5 Steps to Grilling Like a Pro - California Culinary School, CulinaryLab Orange County CA