Barbecuing with charcoal in the winter can be an exciting and fun way to enjoy your favorite grilled dishes despite the cold weather. While it may seem challenging to grill in the winter, it's quite manageable with a few tips and tricks.
Here are some steps to help you BBQ with charcoal in the winter:
- Choose the right charcoal grill: When choosing a charcoal grill for winter barbecuing, it's best to go with a model that has sturdy legs and a good base. It should also be well-insulated, so that the heat from the charcoal is retained, even in the coldest weather. A grill with a tight-fitting lid is also recommended, as it helps to keep the heat in and prevents the wind from blowing it out.
- Start with the right charcoal: When grilling in winter, it's important to start with the right charcoal. Choose high-quality lump charcoal or hardwood briquettes that are designed to burn longer and hotter than regular charcoal. This will ensure that your grill maintains the necessary heat even in cold temperatures. Avoid using charcoal that is damp or wet, as it will not ignite properly and will produce a lot of smoke.
- Use a chimney starter: A chimney starter is a useful tool for lighting charcoal in the winter. It's easy to use and provides a consistent heat source. Fill the chimney with charcoal, place it on the bottom grill grate and light the newspaper in the bottom of the chimney. The charcoal will ignite and be ready to use in about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill: Preheating the grill is an essential step when grilling in the winter. Allow the grill to heat up for at least 15-20 minutes before you start cooking. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the meat properly.
- Create a cooking zone: In the winter, it's important to create a cooking zone on the grill. This involves piling the charcoal on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty. This will create a hot zone and a cooler zone, allowing you to sear your meat and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: When grilling in the winter, it's important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your food is cooked to the correct temperature. This will help prevent foodborne illness and ensure that your meat is cooked to perfection. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone, and check the temperature frequently.
- Keep the lid closed: When grilling in the winter, it's important to keep the lid closed as much as possible. This will help to retain the heat and prevent the wind from blowing it out. It will also help to cook the meat evenly and prevent it from drying out.
- Watch the weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast when grilling in the winter. If it's particularly windy or snowy, you may need to adjust your cooking time or method. Be prepared to move your grill to a sheltered spot or bring it inside if necessary.
- Stay warm: Grilling in the winter can be chilly, so make sure to dress appropriately. Wear warm clothing and gloves to keep your hands warm. If possible, set up your grill near a heat source, such as a fire pit or outdoor heater.
Clean the grill: After grilling, make sure to clean the grill thoroughly. Remove the ashes and leftover charcoal, clean the grill grates, and wipe down the exterior of the grill. This will help to prevent rust and ensure that your grill is ready for your next winter barbecue.
Any other hints give the team at Joes BBQ’s a call on Ph: (02) 9737 9799 or visit instore at: 142 Silverwater Road, Silverwater NSW 2128
