The art of grilling has been around for centuries, with different countries and cultures perfecting their own techniques. From direct to indirect heat, the options are endless when it comes to grilling. With the weather warming up, there’s no better time to brush up on your grilling skills and try something new. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’ve got you covered.
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Gas grills are a popular choice for backyard cooking, and with good reason—they’re easy to use and produce great results. However, a few key tips will help you get the most out of your gas grill. In this blog post, we’ll outline the proper way to use a gas grill so you can produce restaurant-quality food at home.
1. Choose the Right Grill
Gas grills come in various sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose one that will accommodate your cooking needs. Opt for a grill with a larger surface area if you frequently entertain large groups. Conversely, if you typically cook for smaller groups or individual servings, a compact grill will suffice. Remember that propane BBQ grills can be expensive, so it’s important to select one that fits your budget and needs.
2. Opt for Gas
While charcoal grills may be cheaper upfront, they can cost you more in the long run. Natural gas grills are not only more convenient—but they’re also much safer. Charcoal can easily ignite if not handled properly, whereas you can easily shut the gas off in case of an emergency.
3. Look for a Deal
Gas grills can be heavy on the pocket, but there are ways to save. Shop for a grill during the off-season and take advantage of holiday sales. Additionally, keep an eye out for floor models or open-box items, which can be significantly cheaper than new models. Finally, don’t forget to compare different models online and in-store to find the best deal.
4. Choose the Right Location
When selecting a spot for your natural gas grill, safety should be your top priority. The grill should be placed on level ground, at least 10 feet from your home or any other structure. Additionally, ensure the area is well ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. If you have a deck or patio, consider placing the grill there to minimize the risk of fire damage.
5. Get a Cover
If you plan on using your grill year-round, investing in a cover is important. This will protect the grill from the elements and extend its lifespan. Be sure to get a cover that’s specifically designed for your model of the grill.
6. Preheat the Grill
It’s important to preheat your grill before cooking. This will ensure that your food cooks evenly and prevents sticking. To preheat a gas grill, simply turn on all the burners and close the lid. Allow the grill to heat up for 15–20 minutes before cooking.
7. Clean the Grill Grates
Before adding any food to the grill, give the grates a good scrub with a wire brush. This will remove any built-up residue from previous cooks and help prevent sticking. For an extra-clean grill, rub the grates with oil before cooking.
Pro Tip: To minimize stickiness, you can spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray before heating. The other option is to place a layer of foil on top of the grates that have been coated in cooking spray. This option makes cleanup extra easy too!
8. Manage the Heat
The best way to ensure even cooking and prevent flare-ups is by using indirect heat when grilling multiple food items at once. When using indirect heat on a gas grill, simply leave one (or a few) burners turned off and put your food over those unlit areas. For charcoal grills, simply build your fire to one side of the grill, so you have two temperature zones—hot and cool—for indirect cooking.
Your watermelon slices should be placed over the cooler section of the fire. And don’t overdo it—no one wants mushy or burnt fruit! Aim for about 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Use the Right Tools
To avoid dropping food through the grates, use long-handled utensils designed for grill cooking. These tools will also keep you safe from burn hazards.
10. Don’t Forget the Zones
Create two temperature zones on your grill by turning one side to high and leaving the other side turned off. This will give you a safe place to move food if it starts to char.
11. Keep an Eye on the Temperature
Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature of your grill before cooking. Most gas grills have a built-in thermometer, but charcoal grills require an oven thermometer to get an accurate reading.
12. Serve Up Your Grilled Creations
Once everything is cooked to perfection, carefully remove each fruit from the grill using long tongs or a spatula. Then, let your culinary creations cool slightly before serving. Add a little flair by garnishing your grilled fruit with fresh herbs, drizzling it with honey or balsamic vinegar, or topping it with a dollop of whipped cream, ice cream, or yogurt.
13. Clean It Regularly
It’s important to clean your grill after each use. This will help prevent foodborne illness and keep your grill looking new. Begin by removing the grates and scrubbing them with soapy water. Then, wipe down the inside of the grill with a damp cloth. Once everything is clean, apply a layer of cooking oil to the grates to prevent sticking.
Grilling with a gas grill can be a great way to cook food outdoors. However, if you don’t do it correctly, you can end up with food that is not properly cooked. This article provides a guide on properly grilling with a gas grill. If you’re interested in learning more about best natural gas grills reviewed and rated, inflatable hot tubs, spotting scopes, or portable kayak fish finders, read our buyer’s guides and product recommendations.
