Next to baseball, nothing says summer like the sizzling sounds, enticing aromas, and mouth-watering flavors of barbecuing. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive, 90 percent of respondents agree that barbecues make them think of summer.
Where do people barbecue?
According to the survey, 89 percent prefer to hold family barbecues in their backyards, compared with 3 percent who prefer a public park or picnic area. Barbecues are a great way to bring the family together, entertain friends and family and enjoy the summer nights-right in the backyard!
A Few Simple Tips
That can make your next grill-out even easier:
- Marinating musts: Marinating meat adds flavor and tenderization before cooking. Every marinade should contain an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar or wine; an oil, such as olive or canola; and seasonings, such as herbs and spices.
- Dry Rubs: Just like it sounds, dry rubs contain only dry and non liquid ingredients. The dry rub is all about achieving that crust! That crust that boosts the perfect flavor of the meat. The dry rub of herbs and spices, plus salt and sugar, adheres to a binder, like mustard or hot sauce, or the natural moisture of the meat, poultry, or fish.
- How Long To Marinade or Dry Rub For?
- My suggestion is a minimum of 15 minutes for a Dry Rub or 60 mins for a Marinade. And you can leave it as long as overnight prior to tossing the meat on the grill or in the smoker depending on the size of the meat you are rubbing. The longer you allow it to sit and sink in, the deeper and bolder the flavor will be.
- Barbecue in bulk: Once you have fired up the grill, cook as much as your pit can handle since your food will maintain its flavor for future meals.
- Fire up a fast-cooking feast: To spend more time with guests instead of the grill, choose to pre-cook a variety of your barbecue meats ahead of time. This cuts cooking time down and you can spend more time with your guests. Just heat and eat!
- Got leftovers? No problem.
- Barbecue meals freeze well, and often become more flavorful when the sauce and spices are reheated at a later date. When ready thaw, reheat and just add sauce for a delicious leftover treat.
- Deck out your deck: Minimal meal preparation time gives you a chance to focus on the details. To make your barbecue spectacular, set the mood by hanging lanterns around the yard, blending a signature summertime cocktail and presenting the meal on brightly colored plates.
Now that the days are getting longer it's getting easier to step outside and cook dinner on the grill. A relaxing backyard barbecue dinner will melt the stress of the workday away. Your family will love the meal, and you'll love the convenience.