Pull Out the BBQ

If you’re not one to hover over the grill during our often frigid winter days and wet and windy spring, then you’re probably just getting back into summer grilling mode. The days are longer and milder and outdoor meals are happening. Now is the time to get your grills and your skills ready for a long summer of sizzle.

Cleaning

If your grill sat uncovered, or you didn’t give it a thorough cleaning last fall, it’s in need of a touch-up. Heavy duty wire brushes will do the job but they can also be harmful.

“Brushes can sometimes strip away the coating and oils,” said Tim Branen, owner of Tim’s Special Cut Meats in Coeur d’Alene. “I get the grill hot and then rub the grates with crumpled tin foil.”

Charcoal vs. Gas

“Charcoal is more time consuming, but the flavor is much better than gas,” said Branen.

Natural lump charcoal provides great flavoring for those who prefer it over gas. If you’re like many and use a propane grill, there are a few ways to add additional flavor. Adding wood chips will enrich the flavor of the meat. Varieties such as apple wood, cherry wood, hickory and mesquite all bring different tastes. Simply choose the wood you would like to use and place it in a pie pan or wrap in tinfoil. This prevents the wood from burning too hot and allows you to control how much smoke is in the grill.

Locking in Flavor

Generally speaking, the lower temperature and more time you take grilling, the juicier and better tasting your meat will be. High quality cuts of meat will flare up, so searing each side is a good method to prevent a burnt outside with a raw interior.

“I sear the meat a few minutes on each side and then go real low,” said Branen. “Once it’s seared, turn half the grill off and put the meat on that side of the grill, then cook to the doneness you prefer.”

Seasoning

A good cut of meat needs very little seasoning. Salt, pepper and garlic will go a long way. If you do use a rub, make sure it pairs with any sauce you plan to use. Check the main ingredients for similarities, and you’ll be much happier with the results.

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