Barbecuing is an amazing way to bring people together, but it’s not without its challenges—especially if you’re just starting out. But don’t worry, we’ve all been there! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the biggest mistakes beginners make when barbecuing and show you how to avoid them. So, let’s get you on the path to grilling greatness and make sure your next BBQ is a hit!
1. Not Cleaning the Grill Properly
A dirty grill can shorten the lifespan of your BBQ and affect the taste of your food. Leftover food and grease build-up cause flare-ups, uneven cooking, and rust.
After each use, scrub the warm grill with a grill brush to remove food particles. Occasionally, remove the grates and wash with warm soapy water. This will keep your BBQ lasting longer and your food tasting better!
2. Lifting the Lid Too Often
It's tempting to check on your food, but resist the urge to lift the lid! Every time you open it, heat escapes, leading to longer cooking times and unevenly cooked food.
If you're using a gas grill, keep that lid closed to maintain consistent heat. For charcoal grills, opening the lid lets in more oxygen, making the coals burn hotter. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without peeking.
3. Not Preheating the Grill
Skipping to preheat your grill can result in food sticking and uneven cooking.
Give your grill 10-15 minutes to preheat; for charcoal grills, wait until the coals are ashed over, and for gas grills, let the temperature rise. Preheating ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks.
4. Using Lighter Fluid to light Coal
Using lighter fluid can leave a chemical taste on your food and isn't the safest option.
Opt for a chimney starter instead! It's a cleaner, safer, and more effective way to get your coals hot in about 15-20 minutes — no lighter fluid needed!
5. Overcrowding the Grill
Overcrowding the grill restricts airflow, causing uneven cooking and flare-ups.
Leave at least an inch between food items for proper airflow. For large groups, grill in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid flare-ups.
6. Cooking Directly over Flames and Flare-Ups
Trim excess fat off meat before grilling to prevent flare-ups that can burn or give a bitter taste to your food.
If flare-ups occur, move the food to the cooler side of the grill. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to manage small flare-ups.
7. Not Resting The Meat Before Serving
After grilling, resist the urge to cut into your meat right away!
Give it 5-10 minutes to rest, loosely covered with foil. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender meal.
8. Inadequate Seasoning And Marinating
Seasoning can make or break your BBQ! Beginners often use too much or too little seasoning, and some skip marinating altogether, leading to dry, bland meat.
Tip: Use salt and pepper as a base, then add your favourite herbs and spices. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but not too long to avoid affecting the texture. Pat the meat dry before grilling for a perfect sear.
9. Running Out Of Gas or Charcoal Mid-Cook
Running out of fuel midway through cooking can ruin a BBQ.
Always check your propane or charcoal supply beforehand and keep extra fuel on hand to avoid getting caught with half-cooked food and no way to finish grilling.
10. Forgetting to Oil the Grill Grates
Before grilling, lightly coat the grates with vegetable oil using a paper towel or brush. This prevents food from sticking and makes flipping much easier.
11. Using Cold Meat Straight from the Fridge
Taking meat straight from the fridge to the grill can result in uneven cooking and slower cook times.
Let your meat sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before grilling. This helps ensure even cooking and a better sear.
12. Not Planning Enough Time for Smoking Meats
Smoking meat takes time and patience. Rushing will lead to tough, dry food without that smoky flavour. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time - it can take several hours or more depending on the meat.
Trust us, the delicious result will be worth the wait!
13. Forgetting to Adjust Air Vents on Charcoal & Gas Grills
Control the heat on your grill using the air vents. For charcoal grills, more air = more heat - open the vents to raise the temperature and close them to lower it.
It's the opposite for gas grills - closing the vents traps heat and raises the temperature.
14. Using Too Much Charcoal at Once
Overloading your grill with charcoal can make it too hot and difficult to control, leading to burnt or undercooked food.
Always check your grill's manual for the recommended charcoal amount. Use less charcoal for low, slow cooking and more for high-heat grilling, but avoid overloading.
15. Cutting Into the Meat to Check Doneness
Checking your meat's doneness by slicing into it lets those tasty juices escape, drying it out.
Invest in a meat thermometer to accurately check internal temperatures without cutting into the meat. This keeps the juices locked in, ensuring your meat is perfectly cooked and juicy every time.
16. Not Storing Your BBQ Properly
After cleaning your BBQ, proper storage is essential, especially in the UK's unpredictable weather. Leaving it exposed can cause damage. Always cover your BBQ when not in use to protect it from rain and moisture. Check our range of weatherproof BBQ covers made of Oxford 600D fabric to protect your barbecue from UK weather!
However, remember to periodically remove the cover to air out the BBQ and prevent rust and mould. A high-quality BBQ cover will keep your grill in great shape and extend its lifespan.
Barbecuing is a learning experience, but avoiding common mistakes like neglecting grill cleanliness, mishandling heat zones, and constantly checking under the lid will set you up for success. With patience and preparation, you'll be grilling delicious meals in no time.
Ready to elevate your BBQ skills? Check out our high-quality grills and accessories and become a BBQ master.
Happy grilling!
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