We have all seen the pictures of folks barbequing in shorts, sandals, and a tank top over the summer. Grabbing some cold ones while the meat sizzles on the grill sounds like a great way to spend a summer day.
But about when you get those charcoal cravings in the winter months? For real, die-hard fans, there are ways to make your grill meals a reality every day of the year by following the tips below.
Tip #1: Grill Location
Many people keep their grill on a patio or other location further away from the door. Bring your grill closer to your back door to make the trek in and out short. Make sure to still keep your grill two feet away from your house for safety reasons.
Tip #2: Extra Fuel
With low temperatures, your grill may go through fuel more quickly. Make sure to have extra charcoal or gas on hand to add fuel to the fire and keep your grill going.
Tip #3: Ceramic Cookware
Ceramic is a great material to keep the heat contained. Ceramic cookware also makes an excellent means of transportation when food finishes on the grill.
Tip #4: Cast Iron Pot
When cooking in the winter, some parts of the meal may get done more quickly than you anticipated. Keep a cast iron pot on hand to store the food that finishes early in a warm, but not a too warm place.
Tip #5: Pre-Pre-Heat
When grilling or cooking over any heat source, it is typically best to pre-heat the appliance. When grilling in the winter, this pre-heating becomes even more critical. Allow extra time for your grill to get up to the right temperature. Don’t forget to check internal temperatures to ensure meat reaches a safe consumable standard.
Tip #6: Add Extra Time
Grilling in the winter means extra time. Most meats will end up adding about 20 minutes of cook time per pound for every five degrees under 45° Fahrenheit.
Tip #7: Keep the Lid Down
You should try to keep the lid down on your grill when you cook at all times except when adding, flipping, or removing the food. Keeping the top down becomes even more critical during the cold winter months.
Tip #8: Choose Food Wisely
Every cut of meat has different cook times. Think ahead to choose the right cut and type of meat or veggies to grill based on thickness and thus the cook time.
Tip #9: Choose the Right Clothes
Make sure to keep oven mitts and slip on shoes near the door. A Jacket never hurts, but if you grill during the winter, a simple sweater should do.
Tip #10: Never Grill Inside
It may seem like an excellent way to keep warm but never grill inside. Even though pulling your BBQ grill into the garage may seem smart, it is best to keep your grill at least two feet away from any building or extra fuel source.
If you miss the grilled goods of the summer but want to save yourself the hassle, come into a Famous Dave’s location today. We smoke and grill our meat to perfection and offer our signature sauces to give you the best grill experience inside.