Picnic season may be over, but it’s always a good time of year to enjoy some barbecue with family and friends. This is “not-your-daddy’s-barbecue”. CowgirlQ is taking the meaning of barbecue to a whole new level, offering a gourmet spin to this American comfort food. The process that brings our food to your table is what sets CowgirlQ apart – each step from the selection of ingredients to those finishing touches is intentionally designed to bring maximum flavor – with a fancy flair.
Now it’s your turn! We’re letting you in on a few tips and tricks that will make your next attempt at a barbecue, the talk of your friends and family!
How to Set Up The Grill
Tough cuts of meat need indirect heat to hold steady at 200-300℉ in order to fully cook the inside and prevent a hard crust from forming too quickly.
If you’re using a propane grill, keep one side on and the other side off. If the grill has three burners, keep the center off and the sides on. Place the meat on the cooler side of the grill to ensure meat is cooked slowly and thoroughly.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, place your fuel either on both sides of the grill or just on one side. Place the meat on the cooler side. Place an aluminum pan of liquid (either water, wine, beer or juice) under the cool part of the grill gate to increase moisture and help regulate temperature. Be sure to keep the lid closed to trap the heat and keep it low, slow and even.
Which Fuel to Use
If you’re using a charcoal grill, mix briquettes with lump charcoal to get the best of both worlds: moderate heat and smoky flavor. Adding wood chips, chunks or pellets will increase the smokiness and give your meat extra flavor.
Here are a few suggestions for pairing meats with wood fuel:
- Seafood: alder and cedar
- Chicken and pork: applewood
- Beef, pork and lamb: hickory, cherry and mesquite
Cooking Tips
Now that you’ve got you’re grill and fuel set up, here are a few tips for delicious BBQ:
- Make sure meat is at room temperature before cooking. This will ensure meat is cooked thoroughly.
- Add oil to the grill before starting up the grill to ensure easy release and cleanup.
- Use a meat thermometer to check temperatures.
- Remove the meat from heat once the meat temperature is just below the target temperature. The meat will continue cooking as it rests.
If you’ve got any questions about barbecuing, give CowgirlQ a call. Or better yet, place an order with CowgirlQ and enjoy barbecue that will blow your taste buds away.