Grilling For Beginners

Grilling is one of the most popular pastimes in America, but it can be intimidating for some. Many people find it difficult, and struggle with under-cooked meat, burnt edges, or their food tasting like charcoal. Grilling is a culinary skill that can be mastered with just a bit of knowledge and practice. This guide will help beginners overcome their fear of grilling by explaining the simple steps necessary for success.

Grill Type

Before you start grilling, you need to know what type of grill you are using. Each grill type is different, so it’s important that you know how to work yours in order for your food to cook properly and taste right. The different types of grills include charcoal, propane, electric, and natural gas.

Once you figure out what type of grill you have, you can begin prepping it. Grills need to be properly cleaned and seasoned before you can do any grilling. If yours is new, it will come with a set of instructions on how to clean it. To clean your grill, you will need either a steel brush or nylon bristled brush to scrape any food, grime, or rust off of the grates. If your grill came with a brush that fits the grates, use that instead. It’s also important to clean any debris from the bottom of the grill.

Seasoning your grill helps create a cooking surface that is non-stick, so your food won’t get stuck to the grates. To do this, add a thin layer of canola oil or pam cooking spray to the grates before you turn the grill on. Be sure to wipe away the access oil so it doesn’t burn and create build-up on the grates. 

Grilling Tools

Once you have your grill set up, it’s time to get your tools in order. Grilling forks, spatulas, and tongs are common tools used to put food on the grill, turn it, or remove it. These tools make the process of cooking fun and hassle-free.

Grilling Tips

Before you can cook your meat on the grill, you need to get it prepped. Grilling is a fast-paced cooking skill and doesn’t allow for too much time in between steps. For best results, meats should be defrosted before grilling. Different sauces, marinades, and spices are all great options to use while cooking your food on the grill. Marinating before grilling makes the meat juicier and more flavorful, and should be done hours before you need to start cooking.

Grilling time varies based on the type of meat and the cut, so it’s important to read your instruction manual for guidance on how long each side should be grilled. If you find your meat isn’t cooked after a certain amount of time, move it to a different spot on the grill. Grilling isn’t an exact science so don’t be afraid to experiment with your food to find what works best for you and tastes great too!

BBQ in Amarillo, Texas!

While you master your BBQ skills on the grill, stop by Dyer’s for inspiration! You can visit us in person at 1619 S. Kentucky E #526 I-40 and Georgia in the Wellington Square Shopping Center in Amarillo or at 11816 U.S. Hwy 60 in Pampa. Visit our Menu or Contact Us for more information!