Rubbing it in – Grilling Tips #barbecue

In the United States Grilling is a point of pride with everyone wanting their own signature twist on a rub or sauce. Usually they call it their secret and are unwilling to share. Some have even been known to take their recipe to the grave with them.

I don’t get it. I love grilling and I love sharing. Really what does it matter if someone copies a recipe. If you believe Charles Caleb Colton then you believe that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”

I’m still working on coming up with a “signature rub” of my own. In the mean time, I found this guide that provides a great starting place for developing your own. What follows is the gist of the article along with other information I found:

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Bring on the Flavor – Grilling Tips #barbecue

For those of us who enjoy grilling one of the primary reasons we like it is the wonderfully complex flavors that can only be achieved via this method of cooking. Who doesn’t love that unique combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy that can only come from the perfect grilling session.

 

However, more is needed than simply dropping a piece of meat on the grill and slathering it with a little sauce. Sure you can get an acceptable burger that way but for a really great experience a little more technique is needed using marinades, rubs, and a good sauce.

Don’t forget the Sides – Grilling Tips #barbecue

 

For any grilling session to be a success it must be accompanied by great side dishes. The most succulent and perfectly grilled chicken or steak will ultimately fail as a meal with out great complimentary dishes.

Here are some sides we have found that we enjoy with our grilled items.

We have also included a few appetizer recipes to keep the party flowing while grilling.

Manage the Beast – Grilling Tips #barbecue

One area where a gas grill has a clear advantage over charcoal, is temperature control.

If you use a gas grill you’ve probably already got a handle, or dial,  on this beast.

If, however, you are like us and prefer the taste charcoal produces, this can be a bit of a challenge.

Fired up – Grilling Tips #barbecue

The debate still rages. Is it ‘better’ to grill with gas or charcoal?

We prefer charcoal. It is true that gas burns cleaner. Charcoal produces more carbon monoxide among other soot causing materials. From a taste perspective we feel charcoal produces a richer and smokier taste.

So how do you start it? Seems like a ‘no brainer’ doesn’t it. Believe it or not