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Tips for Successful Grilling
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Useful
Tools
In the good old days the only tools required for cooking
over an open flame were the fire and some good, long sticks.
You could do it that way, or you could experiment with the
innovations made during the intervening years. It seems as
if everyone with a grill has a different list of necessary
equipment. Over time you will discover which ones make it
onto your "essentials' list, and which ones languish in a
kitchen cupboard. This is our list.
Timer - Useful for following those minute by
minute instructions.
Skewers - Wooden or metal skewers are essential for
kabobs. Some prefer flattened skewers, which tend to inhibit
the partially cooked food rolling as you turn and make it
possible to cook all sides of the food.
Disposable Drip Pans - These are placed under food
cooked using the indirect method. A drip pan catches
drippings from fatty foods, preventing flare ups. It can
also be filled with water, wine, or marinade to flavor the
food and provide wet heat.
Long Handled Tongs and Spatulas - Used for turning
foods on the grill, the long handles allow you to work from
a distance.
Oven Mitts - Heat resistant mitts prevent burns from
working with a hot grill.
Basting Brushes - Frequent basting is key to all
forms of barbeque. Brushes are also useful for oiling the
grate prior to placing the food on the grill.
Meat Thermometer - Not strictly necessary for
grilling thin cuts of meat or vegetables, a good thermometer
is essential for determining the doneness of thick roasts.
Fire Chimney - Especially useful if grilling over a
long period, when the fire will need refreshing regularly.
Grill Baskets - These are wire baskets with long
handles. A basket shaped like a fish makes turning whole
fish quick and easy. Grill baskets are also used to hold
small items, preventing them from falling into fire.
Wire Brush - Look for one with a metal grill scraper
on the front edge. This will make gleaning the grate a
matter of minutes.
Whisk Broom - Handy for cleaning away ash from
charcoal grills.
Squirt Gun - For a little Wild West action, put out
those pesky flare ups with one of these. Also handy for
anyone caught poaching off the grill.
A Word From The Manufacturer
Read the instructions that come with your grill. This can
not be stressed to much. There are many, many types of
grills on the market today. While some things holds true for
all grills, you will find many helpful hints about
everything from how to preheat the grill for the cooking
method you are using to what sort of regular maintenance is
required to extend the life of your grill.
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