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Grilling season is upon us! Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or this will be your first time tending the flames, you may have some questions about what grill would is best for you and how to make your eats taste as if a professional made them every time. We have the answers you need!
First, it’s time to buy a grill. We have plenty to choose from at Godwin Hardware but before you start shopping you’ll need to ask yourself a couple of questions before you make this big purchase:
What will be your fuel source?
There are two main kinds of grill fuel: charcoal and gas. Charcoal grills obviously burn charcoal, which will need to be stored somewhere when it’s not being used. It also can produce black ash, so you may want to use this type of grill in your backyard instead of on a deck.
Gas grills can burn two different types of gas: propane and natural gas. Natural gas will require an easy-to-access gas line. Propane may cost you more in the long run as you will need to re-buy propane tanks every time you run out of the fuel. Most grills can be bought in either natural gas or propane, but you will need to decide which is right for you before you make the big purchase.
What do I want my grill to be made out of?
Grills can be made out of four different kinds of materials: cast aluminum, sheet metal, cast iron, or stainless steel. Stainless steel is what most “pros” use, but it also might run you a pretty penny. If you don’t want to fork over the money for a stainless steel grill, consider cast aluminum; it will most-likely outlast a stainless steel grill in longevity (bonus). If your heart is set on a stainless steel grill, though, consider bringing a magnet along with you when purchasing (we’re not kidding!) Some companies will build the main components of a grill out of stainless steel, but use painted steel frames which will rust overtime. Use your magnet to tell the difference: painted steel will be magnetic, and most stainless steel will not.
Okay, got your grill? Now you may be wondering how to use it! Here are some tips for making your food taste better every time.
Tip #1 Stay away from lighter fluid if you have a charcoal grill.
Lighter fluid is made from harsh chemicals that you may not want near your food. Try using a chimney starter instead.
Tip #2 Pre-heat your grill before use.
You wouldn’t stick your casserole in a cold oven so don’t do it with your grill. Let the grill warm up to approximately 500 degrees before use (if you don’t have a thermometer, your coals should be glowing red and your gas will be turned on high). This will allow old bits of food to loosen and give you time to brush them away before cooking.
Bonus Tip: If your stainless steel cleaning brush is leaving bristles behind, it’s time to get a new one. Cleaning your grill is essential to cooking good food. Make sure you replace your brush when it starts loosing bristles so you can get a good grill every time. Godwin Hardware stocks a number of different brushes — talk to one of our experts to decide which one is right for you!
Tip #3 Keep the hood down and use a timer to monitor your food’s progress.
It can be tempting to keep the hood up so you can watch your food cook, but did you know that by doing this you’re letting your food dry out? Keep the hood down to trap in the fat that vaporizes, making your food more juicy. This will also make your food cook faster, so use a timer to remind yourself when it’s time to check on it.
Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your grill-skills.