Mastering the flame is about more than just flipping burgers; it’s about understanding the subtle balance of heat, timing, and patience. Whether you’re working with charcoal or gas, our Bone Suckin’ Sauce® Grillin’ Tips go back to the basics to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your backyard game. These essential strategies will ensure you spend less time troubleshooting the grill and more time enjoying the perfect sear.
Read the directions that came with your grill. We know that’s boring, but it’s very helpful.
If you get a rotisserie, make sure it’s big enough to do a prime rib or large boneless roasts. Make sure the motor and bar can handle the weight of what you will be cooking.
Make sure your rotisserie is protected from the wind, because one that isn’t will burn the outside of the meat before the inside of the meat is cooked.
Read all instructions before lighting the grill.
Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards, utensils and platters for raw and cooked foods; refrigerate foods while marinating; and NEVER baste with the marinating liquid. (Make extra marinade for basting, or boil your marinade liquid before basting.)
Six burners are better.
Place your grill away from open windows and doors so smoke doesn’t blow inside your home.
Be careful not to put your grill in a place where carbon monoxide can build up. Carbon monoxide can build up under porches and in garages.
Don’t place your grill on a wooden deck because of fire hazard. Charcoal could fall on the deck and start a fire.
It’s easier to scrub your grill while it’s hot, but make sure you use protective gloves.
Direct cooking method is when the food is sitting directly above the charcoal briquets or the lit burner.
Indirect cooking method is when the food is sitting off to the side of the charcoal briquets or lit burner. This is best for foods higher in fat that take longer than 30 minutes to cook.
Place the grill on a flat, level surface so it will not tip over. Make sure your grill is located away from overhangs, fences, deck railings and shrubbery that could be ignited by a sudden flare-up or flying spark.
You can clean your grill with a pair of tongs and a piece of crumpled wet foil.
Use tongs or a spatula instead of a fork to flip meats. It helps to keep flavorful juices in and keeps meat tender and moist.
Wipe your grill with vegetable oil before grilling to prevent food from sticking to the grill surface.
Keep an eye on the drip pan. Most people don’t even remember they have one of these. If it’s too full, it can catch on fire.