Outdoor Cooking

Outdoor cooking is a national pastime. It is a chance to bring friends, family and neighborhoods together. The cookout helps to give the chance to relieve tension and enjoy each other's company in a hectic world. Typically they are held on holidays such as Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day. It is appropriate for anytime of the year, not just holidays.

Grilling is a great way to spend an outing and prepare food.  There are two methods that are considered grilling. The first is the direct method. This method involves direct heating which means that the food is directly over the heat. It is ideal for hot dogs, steaks, hamburgers and chicken breasts which cook relatively fast. This method requires constant attention to make sure the food does not burn. The other method is called indirect, where the food is placed on the grill away from the heat source and allowed to more slowly cook.  The indirect method is ideal for roasts, turkeys and chickens which require more time.

Barbecue is often used in the same words as grilling. The difference is barbecue does not refer to the sauce, but the method. It is normally done at a lower temperature, indirect heat, but with the addition of smoke from wood chips. These can be hickory, mesquite, apple, cherry, or any combination that you like. All across the country, each region takes pride in their barbecue style. It can be pork, beef or chicken.  Either basted with sauce, sauce served on the side or none at all. Be creative and enjoy the event. You should also have a meat thermometer to be sure the food is fully cooked. This method produces very tender and favorable food.