Grilling is an activity that many Californians enjoy, especially during the summer months. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will provide you with some tips, recipes, and marinades to take your grilling game to the next level. In addition, we’ll explore our meat department offerings that can enhance your grilling experience.

Grilling Tips

Clean Before You Cook

Before firing up the grill, it’s important to preheat and clean it thoroughly. This will ensure that your food cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the grates. Cleaning your grill grates will prevent any unwanted bacteria from accumulating and transferring to your food, keeping your meal safe and healthy. So, take the time to preheat and clean your grill before cooking to achieve the best possible results.

Low & Slow vs. Hot & Fast

Understanding how to control the temperature of your grill is key to achieving perfectly cooked food every time. Thinner cuts of meat and vegetables cook quickly and benefit from direct heat, which means placing them directly over the heat source. On the other hand, thicker cuts of meat or recipes that require longer cooking times should be cooked using indirect heat. This means placing them away from the heat source, which allows for slower and more even cooking. By using the appropriate heat level for your food, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness, juiciness, and flavor.

Let Your Food Rest After Grilling

Allowing your food to rest after cooking is an important step in achieving the best possible flavor and texture. When food is cooked, the heat causes the juices to move towards the center of the meat, leaving the exterior dry. Allowing your food to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Be Safe While Grilling

Ensuring safety while grilling is just as important as achieving delicious food. By following a few simple guidelines, you can prevent accidents and injuries.

Here’s a few to follow to ensure you’re grilling safely:

1. • Keep your grill away from anything flammable. This includes trees, bushes, and your house.

1. • Always use long-handled utensils. This will help you maintain a safe distance from the heat source and avoid burns.

1. • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. In the event of an unexpected flare-up, a fire extinguisher can help you quickly extinguish the flames before they get out of control. Make sure you know how to use the fire extinguisher before you start grilling.

1. • Never leave your grill unattended. This is one of the most important safety rules to follow. Grilling requires your full attention, so make sure you’re always nearby to monitor the cooking process.

These are just a few of the basic safety guidelines for grilling. For more information on safe grilling practices, check out resources from the National Fire Protection Association.