When it comes to grilling, many people think that it’s a simple task that anyone can master. However, the reality is that grilling requires a great deal of skill, attention to detail, and the right tools. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes people make when grilling, and the expert tips from professional chefs on how to avoid them.
Mistakes to Avoid
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- Using lighter fluid with charcoal, which can leave a chemical taste on food
- Not cleaning the grill grates before cooking
- Using subpar grill tools, such as short tongs and cheap spatulas
- Not using a meat thermometer to ensure food is cooked to the right temperature
- Not cleaning the grill frequently, leading to a buildup of residue and bacteria
Expert Tips from the Pros
We spoke with several chefs about the biggest mistakes they see people make when grilling, and the tools they’d recommend to fix them. Here are some expert tips from professionals who understand grilling inside and out.
Charcoal Grilling
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- Use natural fire starters, such as tumbleweeds, instead of lighter fluid
- Invest in a charcoal chimney and natural fire starters for a safer, more effective grilling experience
- Use a grill brush to clean the grates before cooking
Grill Tools
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- Invest in a high-quality set of long-handled grill tools, such as tongs, spatulas, and a basting brush
- Avoid using short tongs and cheap spatulas, which can be frustrating and even dangerous
- Look for tools made from durable materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron
Cutting Boards
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- Use a large, sturdy cutting board made from wood, such as maple or cherry
- Avoid using glass or plastic cutting boards, which can ruin your knives or warp
- Choose a cutting board with a non-slip bottom to prevent it from sliding around
Meat Thermometers
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- Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure food is cooked to the right temperature
- Avoid using the “eye test” to check doneness, which can lead to overcooking or undercooking
- Look for a thermometer with a fast response time and accurate readings
Other Tools and Tips
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- Use grill tweezers instead of tongs for more precision and control
- Invest in a grill brush with a stainless steel or bristled head for easy cleaning
- Use a cake tester to ensure food is cooked to the right temperature
- Keep the grill clean and well-maintained to prevent residue and bacteria buildup
Recommended Tools
| Tool | Price |
|---|---|
| Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter | $25 |
| Grillart Grill Brush and Scraper | $20 |
| Le Creuset Outdoor 5-Piece Grilling Tools Set | $195 |
| John Boos BBQ Series Maple Cutting Board | $109 |
| Lavatools Javelin Digital Thermometer | $23 |
| Msy Bigsunny 12-Inch Precision Tweezers | $9 |
| Thermapen One | $119 |
| Ateco Stainless Steel Cake Tester, Set of 3 | $7 |
| Grillart Woven Wire Grill Brush and Scraper | $15 |
Expert Insights
Quotes from the Experts
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“Instead of using lighter fluid, grab a charcoal chimney and natural fire starters, like tumbleweeds. They’re safer, more effective, and won’t leave any unwanted flavors behind.” – Matt Abdoo, executive chef and co-founder of Pig Beach BBQ
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“It’s never fun seeing someone fire up the grill and toss food on without cleaning the grates first. A quick brush-down before preheating makes a huge difference in flavor and food safety.” – Matt Abdoo, executive chef and co-founder of Pig Beach BBQ
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“Short tongs, cheap spatulas, and plastic handles aren’t just frustrating — they’re dangerous. Invest in a sturdy set of long-handled tools built for high heat and control.” – Matthew Cutolo, chef of Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island
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“Glass ruins your knives, plastic warps, and small boards make a mess. Use a large, sturdy wood board — it’s gentle on knives, durable, and perfect for resting and slicing meat.” – Matthew Cutolo, chef of Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island
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“A digital instant-read thermometer is a game-changer. You will look like a professional, and there will never be any guessing or serving meat that was hacked up on the grill.” – Matt Abdoo, executive chef and co-founder of Pig Beach BBQ
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“I recommend extra-large grill tweezers instead of traditional tongs. They give you more precision and control, especially when handling smaller cuts of meat or making more delicate adjustments on the grill.” – Jon Urbana, founder of KOW Steaks
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“A digital meat thermometer is a must. Cook food according to temperature rather than time. Thermapens by ThermoWorks are a great option. They take the guesswork out of grilling and help you cook your meat to the right level.” – Jon Urbana, founder of KOW Steaks
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“For me, it is simply the best tool, and has made my life in the kitchen much easier. I use this probe every day at Lafayette on every single piece of steak to guarantee perfect cooking.” – Kylian Goussot, executive chef of Lafayette Steakhouse in Miami, Florida
Conclusion
Grilling is a skill that requires attention to detail, the right tools, and a bit of practice. By following the expert tips and recommendations from professional chefs, you can take your grilling game to the next level and create delicious, memorable meals for you and your loved ones. Remember to always use the right tools, keep the grill clean, and cook food according to temperature rather than time. With a little bit of practice and patience, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!
