Savor Flame-Grilled Flavor Outdoors with a Barbecue Grill

When the weather improves, people naturally begin planning outdoor picnics. Interest in outdoor equipment rises accordingly, and one item that attracts particular attention is the barbecue grill.

Barbecue grills come in many varieties, ranging from the conventional large barbecue grills most people picture to Weber grills and electric grills. Electric grills that produce less smoke have also become very popular recently. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of barbecue grills.

Different Ways to Use a Barbecue Grill

First, let’s briefly review how to use a barbecue grill. You need fuel to start a fire in the grill. A common choice is well-split oak. However, oak logs may not catch fire readily unless the wood is thoroughly dry, so you need kindling or another fire starter to build up the heat at the beginning.

If this seems like too much trouble, commercially available hardwood charcoal for barbecuing is another good option. Use a torch to light the fire, laying it sideways and aiming it at thin, split sections of the wood or charcoal. Once the fire is going, first grill somewhat tougher cuts of pork over high heat. Add beef when the heat reaches a suitable level. Ribs take a long time to cook, so distribute them evenly among the other items on the grill. Add more wood or hardwood charcoal when the heat weakens. Steaks can burn easily, so grill them while adjusting the heat. Oil them well and sear one side at a time over moderately high heat.

Once you feel you have eaten plenty of meat, grill shrimp, bacon skewers, and similar foods. They cook well even as the heat begins to fade, so they can still be grilled deliciously. Always pay close attention to safety when using an outdoor barbecue grill. Wind can cause the fire to flare up suddenly, so monitor its intensity carefully and always use protective barbecue gloves or similar equipment while grilling.

Grills Should Be Cleaned Thoroughly, Just Like Griddles

As with an ordinary meat griddle, it is important to care for a barbecue grill properly after use. Regular detergents work well, but if soot or stubborn grime will not come off, flour and baking soda can also be used for cleaning. Soak the grill briefly in water mixed with baking soda, then sprinkle it with flour and wipe it clean. If that does not work, purchasing and using a specialized cleaner is another good option.

There are also fish grills that can be used indoors. Many recent products are large and come with lids, allowing them to be used not only for grilling fish but also for preparing various hot-pot dishes. Smokeless griddles can also be used when cooking meat indoors. Options include infrared grills that cook food using infrared heat and various griddles designed to drain grease efficiently.

[Fam Times = Reporter Hong Seung-beom]