Barbecue cooking: 10 tips for grilling

The sun shining on the barbecue adds a special charm to a festive meal. The warm glow of the fire, mingled with the smell of smoke, creates an unforgettable experience that we will always remember.

Barbecuing is more than just a way of preparing food - it is a true art that combines taste, smell and socialising on special occasions. However, beginners and experienced grill masters alike can face challenges when trying to achieve the perfect taste and texture in their dishes. Here are ten helpful tips for successful grilling that are sure to make your culinary experience easier and help you create memorable moments with your loved ones during the upcoming holidays.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL GRILLING:

• Preparing the grill: Before you start grilling, make sure the grill is well-cleaned and ready. Remove any food residues from previous grilling and make sure the grill grate is clean. Also, check the condition of the gas or coal sources and ensure that the grill is properly heated to the correct temperature.

• Correct temperature: One of the key factors for successful grilling is the correct temperature of the grill. For meat and thicker cuts of vegetables, a temperature between 175°C and 200°C is ideal. For faster cooking, such as burgers, the temperature can be as high as 230°C. It is important not to cook at too high a temperature, as this can cause the outside of the food to burn too quickly while the inside remains dry.

• Use the appropriate cooking method: Choose the appropriate cooking method for the type of food you are preparing. For example, meat can be cooked directly over a flame for fast cooking or indirectly at a lower temperature for slow cooking and a more tender texture.

• Marinating and seasoning: Marinades are a great way to add flavour and tenderness to meat. Marinate the meat for at least a few hours or overnight before cooking to allow the flavours to meld well. Also, use fresh herbs and spices to add flavour to your dishes.

• Turn the meat pieces correctly: Turn the meat regularly during cooking to ensure even browning on both sides. Use tongs or a spatula to avoid piercing the meat with a fork, which can cause loss of juices and dry meat.

• Time tracking: Keep a close watch on the cooking time of each piece of food. Overcooking can cause the meat to become dry, while undercooking is not safe to eat. Use a timer or a watch and check the condition of the food on the grill regularly.

• Rest before serving: No, we don't mean that you should sleep a little before eating, but it is important to let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing and serving. While the meat is resting, the juices are evenly distributed throughout the meat, ensuring a softer texture and better flavour. In addition, the meat cools down slightly while resting, which makes it easier to cut without losing the juices.

• Flavour additives: In addition to marinades, you can add extra flavours to your dishes by using smoke. Use wood chips or pieces of wood that have been soaked in water and placed on the grill. The smoke will add a unique flavour to your dishes.

• Prevent sticking: Before placing food on the grill, lightly coat it with oil to prevent it from sticking to the grate. You can also use special grill coatings or aluminium foil to make cleaning after cooking easier.

• Experimenting with recipes: don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and ingredients. Grilling is a great opportunity to create new flavours and surprise your guests with culinary masterpieces.

By following these ten tips, you're sure to become a master griller and create unforgettable dishes.

In addition to delicious meat dishes, choosing side dishes that complement the flavour of the grill is also crucial.

Here are BAM recipes for preparing tasty barbecue side dishes:

RECIPE: Easy Pasta Salad
RECEPT: Grilled Tuna Sandwich
RECEPT: Roasted Chickpeas