Lifestyle

5 Worst Mistakes You Can Make While Barbecuing

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Tony Maples Photography

 

We all love barbecuing, but sometimes the smallest mistake can end up in quite a mess. Here are a few things NOT to do when you light up the grill. While some will only leave you with a burnt steak, others can leave you with a charred backyard. If you can avoid these blunders, you just might be the life of the party.

1. Grilling under the influence

Backyard barbecues and parties go hand-in-hand. There’s nothing wrong with throwing back a few beers while you grill. But, let’s face it: heavy drinking while cooking can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Keep the alcohol to a minimum and you will be the life of the party. The best advice is to marinate your meat, not your soul.

2. I’ll be right back…

Just need to run to the store for ice? Send someone else. Not only is this costly, but it can be dangerous as well. Besides ending up with a charred meal, you could end up on the evening news. Even small fires can spread quickly if given the right resources. Stay on top of your meal and you will be able to enjoy a delicious meal without all the flames.

3. Crank it up, I’m hungry!

Patience is a virtue. And that is true even with barbecue. Well-cooked meat takes time to cook. Turning up the heat or stoking the fire oftentimes ends in a burnt meal or charred remains of a once red piece of meat. Start early and give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cook meat and pay attention to the meat thermometer so your meal is cooked to perfection.

4. Move under the overhang

When that small rain shower threatens your barbecue, don’t move under the overhang. Your meat, the grill, nor you will melt. However, the smoke that escapes the pit will not have any place to go. You will quickly find yourself surrounded by smoke.

5. Water it down

If you have a propane grill, remember that water isn’t going to put out the flames. The key to putting out a gas-fired grill (besides turning the gas to the OFF position) is choking it out. Closing the lid on any grill will keep the flames at bay.

Remembering these simple five tips can help ensure that you have a successful backyard party or a relaxing night with the family.