Lisa Linder
1. FLAVOR IT
When it comes to backyard grilling, there are several ways to add extra flavor to your food. The quickest way is with GLAZES, which are syrupy coatings often made with honey, maple syrup, or molasses that are brushed on during the last few minutes of grilling. Similarly, WET and DRY RUBS require little preparation time. Apply these blends of herbs and spices (wet rubs incorporate moist ingredients, such as oil, mustard, and yogurt) up to a few hours before cooking to create a savory crust. To more deeply infuse foods with flavor -- and tenderize them, too -- immerse them in MARINADES that are made with acidic liquids, such as lemon juice, vinegar, and wine.
2. ADD SMOKE
Whether you grill over gas or charcoal, use HARDWOOD logs, chunks, briquettes, or chips to impart a smoky flavor to foods. Different wood varieties add subtle nuances; try applewood for sweetness, mesquite for tang, or hickory for a baconlike taste.
3. CREATE HEAT ZONES
On a kettle grill, BANK COALS in its center. Sear food in the middle, where heat is highest, then move it to the outer edges of the grill to perfectly cook without burning. On a gas grill, leave one burner on high, another on medium.
4. GET A CLEAN START
Prior to grilling, scrub the hot grate with a long-handled wire brush. This keeps it clean -- and ensures neat grill marks.
5. GREASE THE GRATE
Prevent food from sticking by brushing the grill grate with OIL. Grab a small wad of paper towels with tongs, then dip in a bowl of canola or vegetable oil and rub lightly to evenly coat the grate.
Continue reading Top 10 Grilling Tips
Related Links
Everything You Need to Know About Grilling
Barbecued Ribs with Rosemary Corn
Limited Time Offer - Order Country Living & Save up to 81%Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
