Hello Spring! As we eagerly welcome the warm weather that Spring brings, the desire to start using the BBQ and hosting dinner parties outdoors is certainly high.
One of the most popular spring/summer activities is barbequing, which includes the cooking technique of grilling.
The act of grilling returns us to our roots, allows us to appreciate the outdoors, and further enjoy the company that we keep. You don't need every gadget or high-end technology for the finest backyard BBQ this season; all you need is a simple grill, some meat, and a few tricks under your sleeve.
If you are ready to master the culinary technique of grilling, continue reading.
What is Grilling?
Cooking food on a rack over a heat source, such as a charcoal fire or ceramic briquettes heated by gas flames, is known as grilling.
Cooking on a grill utilizes a mechanism known as thermal radiation. The heat source might be above or below what's being grilled, but when it's above the food, it's referred to as 'broiled.' The majority of grills get their heat from underneath.
Direct heat immediately sears the outside of food, resulting in unique strong, roasted, and occasionally delightfully burnt tastes as well as a lovely crust. When food is cooked over moderate heat, it develops a crust and a smokier flavour.
Grilling promotes caramelization, which occurs when proteins and sugars undergo a transition known as the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction that causes food to brown while it cooks. This gives grilled meats and vegetables a delightful boost in scent and flavour.
Grilling Techniques (Direct vs Indirect Heat)
Grilling is popular with barbequing and consists of two different variations of how one can grill. Direct and indirect heat are the two methods used to cook a meal.
Direct heat is used for dishes that take less than 20 minutes to prepare (think burgers, steaks, fish, and chicken breasts). It consists of the food being cooked directly over the burner tube, with the barbeque cover removed.
This method cooks food fast with strong heat, similar to broiling. Most vegetables, as well as thin pieces of meat that cook fast (burgers and other types of steaks and chops, for example), function well with this approach.
Larger chunks of meat aren't recommended since the high heat will overcook them on the exterior before they're done on the inside.
Use indirect grilling for food that needs to cook longer (for example, pork shoulder or whole chickens), in which case a fire is established on one or both sides of the item and hot air flows around it.
Indirect grilling necessitates the use of a covered grill to provide convected heat. It's a softer way of cooking than direct grilling, enabling bigger pieces to finish cooking without becoming burnt.
Cook with FIKA’s tip: If it takes less than 20 to 25 minutes to cook, use direct heat; if it requires more than that, use indirect heat.
Benefits of Grilling
Vegetables on the grill are healthier for you: Many are unaware that when vegetables are grilled, they retain more vitamins and minerals. This is particularly true of vegetables with low water content.
Furthermore, vegetables tossed on the grill are generally fresh and in season, which is a step up from canned vegetables. Cooking your vegetables in this method is nutritionally superior to boiling or frying.
Meat retains nutrients: When you cook a piece of beef over an open flame, nutrients such as riboflavin and thiamine are preserved. These minerals are essential in a balanced diet and provide several health advantages when consumed.
Use less butter: You will be able to enjoy juicy pieces of meat and delectable vegetables if you master the grill. You'll be less likely to go for the butter or other condiments to fancy up your dish because the grill seals in more moisture. Not only do you consume fewer calories, but you also consume fewer harmful substances.
Start Your Culinary Journey with FIKA
With only a few months left before summer welcomes us with open arms, it is time to get your barbeque ready for those warm summer nights filled with great company and even better food.
If you are looking to expand your culinary knowledge or pick up a few easy tricks, you’ve come to the right place.
Here at Cook with FIKA, we believe that healthy cooking starts with healthy cookware. We pride ourselves in bringing you multi-award-winning, eco-friendly, safe cookware that will make you excited to cook.
Test your new grilling techniques with FIKA cookware.