Looking to spice up your summer barbecues? Look no further! This article offers an exciting exploration of the latest and greatest grilling techniques that are sure to impress your guests. From the mouthwatering flavors of Himalayan salt block grilling to the smoky deliciousness of plank grilling, there’s a trend for every taste bud. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these trendy techniques will take your outdoor cooking game to the next level. So fire up your grill and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these sizzling new methods.
1. Plank Grilling
Plank grilling is a unique and flavorful method of cooking that adds a smoky and aromatic touch to your favorite grilled dishes. There are several types of wood planks that can be used for plank grilling, but cedar, maple, and alder are some of the most popular choices.
1.1 Cedar Plank Grilling
Cedar plank grilling is a classic technique that imparts a distinct, sweet, and woody flavor to the food. To begin, soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour to prevent it from catching fire on the grill. Once soaked, place the plank on the grill and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Then, place your seasoned meat, fish, or vegetables directly on the cedar plank and grill them to perfection. The cedar plank not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the food moist and tender.
1.2 Maple Plank Grilling
Maple plank grilling is another fantastic option that adds a delicate, subtly sweet flavor to your grilled dishes. Similar to cedar plank grilling, soak the maple plank in water before grilling to prevent it from burning. Once soaked, preheat the maple plank on the grill for a few minutes. Season your choice of meat, seafood, or vegetables to your liking and place them on the preheated maple plank. Let them cook on the grill, and enjoy the delicious flavors that the maple wood imparts.
1.3 Alder Plank Grilling
Alder plank grilling is a great choice for those who prefer a milder and slightly smoky flavor profile in their grilled dishes. Soak the alder plank in water, just like with the other wood planks, to ensure it doesn’t catch fire while grilling. Once soaked, preheat the alder plank on the grill and place your seasoned food on top of it. The alder wood infuses a delicious smokiness into the food, enhancing its natural flavors. Whether you’re grilling fish, chicken, or vegetables, alder plank grilling is sure to take your dishes to the next level.
2. Reverse Searing
For those who crave a perfectly cooked steak with a beautiful crust and a tender, juicy interior, reverse searing is a technique worth trying. This method involves slow and low cooking followed by a quick sear to finish.
2.1 Preparing the Meat
To achieve the best results with reverse searing, start by selecting a high-quality cut of meat, such as a ribeye or filet mignon. Season the meat generously with your favorite steak seasoning, making sure to cover all sides evenly. Allow the seasoned meat to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
2.2 Slow and Low Cooking
The first step in reverse searing is to cook the meat slowly and gently at a low temperature. Preheat your grill to a temperature of around 275°F (135°C). Place the seasoned meat on the grill, away from direct heat, and close the lid. Cook the meat until it reaches an internal temperature of about 10-15 degrees below your desired level of doneness.
2.3 Searing to Finish
Once the meat has reached the desired internal temperature during the slow cooking phase, it’s time to give it a perfect sear. Heat your grill to high heat and place the meat directly over the flames or the hottest part of the grill. Sear each side of the meat for only a minute or two, until you achieve a beautiful brown crust. Be careful not to overcook the meat at this stage, as it has already reached its desired level of doneness during the slow cooking phase.
3. Rotisserie Grilling
Rotisserie grilling is a traditional cooking method that produces succulent and evenly cooked meats. By rotating the food slowly over heat, it allows the meat to self-baste, resulting in tender and juicy perfection.
3.1 Choosing the Right Roast
To get started with rotisserie grilling, select a roast or a whole chicken that is suitable for this method. Boneless roasts or chickens work best, as they rotate more evenly on the spit. Season the meat or chicken with your desired herbs, spices, and marinades, ensuring they adhere well to the surface.
3.2 Trussing and Seasoning
Trussing the roast or chicken is an important step in rotisserie grilling. Use butcher’s twine to tie the meat tightly, ensuring it stays secure on the rotisserie spit. This will help the meat to cook evenly and prevent any parts from falling off during the cooking process. Season the trussed meat or chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs you prefer.
3.3 Positioning and Cooking
Attach the trussed roast or chicken firmly onto the rotisserie spit, making sure it is evenly balanced. Preheat the grill on high heat and then reduce the heat to medium. Place a drip pan underneath the meat to catch any drippings. Start rotating the spit slowly over indirect heat, allowing the meat to self-baste and cook evenly. Grill the roast or chicken until it reaches the desired internal temperature, as recommended by the USDA for safety. Once cooked, let the meat rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
4. Salt Block Grilling
Salt block grilling is a trendy and visually appealing cooking method that infuses food with a subtle saltiness. Using a block of salt as a cooking surface enhances the flavors of the ingredients and adds a unique touch to your grilled dishes.
4.1 Selecting the Salt Block
When choosing a salt block, make sure it is food-grade and suitable for grilling. Himalayan pink salt blocks are a popular choice due to their appealing color and flavor. However, other types of salt blocks, such as sea salt or rock salt blocks, can also be used.
4.2 Preheating the Salt Block
To prepare the salt block for grilling, preheat it slowly to prevent cracking. Start by placing the salt block on a cool grill or stovetop and gradually increase the heat, allowing the salt block to warm up gradually. This process may take up to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salt block.
4.3 Cooking on the Salt Block
Once the salt block is adequately preheated, you can begin cooking on it. Season your ingredients with herbs, spices, or marinades and then place them directly on the heated salt block. The salt block will impart a subtle saltiness to the food while simultaneously searing and cooking it. Remember to turn the food occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the block. Enjoy the unique flavors and presentation that salt block grilling brings to your table.
5. Vegetable Grilling Baskets
Grilling isn’t just for meat lovers – it’s a fantastic way to enhance the flavors and textures of vegetables as well. Vegetable grilling baskets are a convenient and effective tool for grilling a variety of vegetables, keeping them from falling through the grill grates and making the grilling process a breeze.
5.1 Preparing the Vegetables
Start by selecting a variety of vegetables that you enjoy and that will grill well. Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, mushrooms, and onions. Wash and dry the vegetables thoroughly, then cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
5.2 Seasoning and Oiling the Basket
Before placing the vegetables in the grilling basket, season them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings. Make sure the grilling basket is well oiled to prevent any sticking of the vegetables during grilling.
5.3 Grilling the Vegetables
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned vegetables in the grilling basket and position it on the grill grates. Close the lid and let the vegetables cook for a few minutes. Flip the vegetables occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent them from burning. Depending on the thickness of the vegetables, grilling time can vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they reach the desired tenderness and char level. Once grilled to perfection, remove the vegetables from the basket and serve as a delicious and healthy side dish.
6. Smash Burger Technique
The smash burger technique has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows you to achieve a perfectly crispy and flavorful burger with a delicious caramelized crust.
6.1 Creating the Perfect Patty
To create the ideal smash burger, start with high-quality ground beef. Divide the ground beef into equal-sized portions and shape them into flat patties. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings.
6.2 Using the Smash Technique
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Place the patties directly on the hot grates and immediately use a spatula or a dedicated burger smasher to press the patties firmly to flatten them. Applying pressure creates more surface area, resulting in a crispy exterior.
6.3 Achieving the Ideal Char
Once the patties are smashed, close the grill lid and let them cook for a few minutes. Flip the patties and allow them to cook for additional time until they reach the desired level of doneness. The smash technique, combined with the high heat of the grill, ensures a flavorful and charred exterior while retaining the juiciness of the burger. Serve your smash burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings and enjoy the mouthwatering results.
7. Plancha Grilling
Plancha grilling is a versatile and efficient cooking method that achieves exceptional results. Originally from Spain, this technique involves cooking food on a thick, flat plate made of cast iron, stainless steel, or even stone.
7.1 Preheating the Plancha
To start, preheat the plancha on the grill until it reaches a high temperature. The plancha should be hot enough to quickly sear the food, creating a delicious crust while preserving the moisture and flavors.
7.2 Seasoning and Oil
Before placing the food on the plancha, season it with your preferred herbs, spices, or marinades. A light coating of oil on the plancha’s surface will help prevent sticking and create a beautiful sear.
7.3 Cooking on the Plancha
Once the plancha is preheated and seasoned, carefully place the food on top. From marinated meats to seafood and vegetables, the plancha can handle a variety of ingredients. The hot surface creates a caramelized exterior and seals in the juices, resulting in moist and flavorful dishes. Flip the food as needed to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear. The plancha’s large cooking surface also allows for multitasking, making it an efficient option for grilling multiple items at once.
8. Grilling with Wood Chips
For those who love the smoky aroma and flavor of grilled food, incorporating wood chips into your grilling routine is a must-try technique. Using wood chips adds an extra layer of complexity and richness to your grilled dishes.
8.1 Soaking the Wood Chips
Before using wood chips, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to ensure they smolder and produce smoke rather than burn quickly on the grill. Soaked wood chips release a steady stream of fragrant smoke, infusing your food with that signature smoky flavor.
8.2 Adding Wood Chips to the Grill
Once the wood chips are soaked, remove them from the water and drain off excess moisture. Create a small foil packet or use a dedicated smoker box to hold the wood chips. Place the packet or box directly on the hot coals or on the grill grates above the heat source, depending on your grill type.
8.3 Controlling the Smoke
As the wood chips heat up, they will begin to smolder and release smoke. Close the grill lid to capture the smoke and allow it to circulate around the food. The duration of the smoke will depend on personal preference and the intensity of smokiness desired. Be mindful not to overdo the smoke, as it can overpower the natural flavors of the food. Experiment with different types of wood chips, such as mesquite, hickory, or fruit woods, to discover your favorite smoky flavor profiles.
9. Beer Can Chicken
Beer can chicken is a fun and flavorful way to grill a whole chicken while infusing it with moisture and the tasty essence of your favorite beer. This technique results in a deliciously tender and juicy bird with crispy skin.
9.1 Preparing the Chicken
Start by choosing a whole chicken that will fit securely on your grill without tipping over. Remove any giblets or excess fat from the cavity, and rinse the chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels, inside and out, to ensure a crispy skin. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite poultry seasoning, and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
9.2 Opening the Beer Can
Open a can of your preferred beer and pour out about half of it into a glass for yourself. Using a can opener, make a few extra holes in the top of the can to allow the steam to escape during cooking. This will help keep the chicken moist.
9.3 Cooking the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium heat and carefully position the beer can in the center of a metal drip pan. Grab the chicken by the legs and lower it onto the beer can, inserting the can into the cavity. Carefully position the chicken on the grill grates, using the legs as a tripod to keep it upright. Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The beer will steam inside the chicken, infusing it with moisture and flavor while keeping it tender and juicy. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
10. Himalayan Salt Block Cooking
Himalayan salt block cooking is a unique and visually stunning method that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your grilling experience. Using a solid block of natural Himalayan salt as a cooking surface allows for exceptional heat distribution and imparts a subtle saltiness to your food.
10.1 Preparing the Salt Block
Before your first use, it’s essential to prepare the salt block properly. Place the block on a cool grill or stovetop and gradually increase the heat, allowing the salt block to warm up slowly. This process helps to prevent cracking. Once the block reaches a sufficient temperature, let it cool down completely before cleaning and storing.
10.2 Heating the Salt Block
To use the salt block for grilling, preheat it over medium heat on the grill or stovetop until it reaches the desired temperature. The salt block will retain heat well, so make sure to allow enough time for it to become evenly hot.
10.3 Cooking on the Salt Block
Once the salt block is preheated, you can start cooking on it. Place your seasoned ingredients directly on the salt block and let them cook for the desired amount of time, turning as needed. The heat from the block will cook the food while simultaneously imparting a delicate and natural saltiness to it. Be cautious when handling the salt block, as it retains heat for a long time. Clean the block thoroughly after each use and allow it to air dry completely before storing. With proper care, your Himalayan salt block can be used for many grilling sessions, adding a unique touch to your culinary creations.