The Start of Grilling Season and How You Should Prep
Many of us associate grilling with the hot summer months. Labor Day, for example, seems to be the unofficial marker of grilling season. But if you ask us, the time to grill is whenever you want! Firing up the grill in the cooler Spring temperatures or even in the snow can be a much more pleasant experience than laboring over coals in the summer heat. Read our tips for when to start grilling, how to prep, and what you should be cooking.
Can I Start Grilling in Winter?
Of course you can grill in winter! If you live in a temperate climate, simply grill as you normally would in the summer months. In colder temperatures, you will need to take a few things into consideration:
- Your grill will take longer to heat up, so start the preheating process earlier than you normally would.
- Your grill will also require more fuel, since it will take longer to reach the desired temperature
- The temperature of your grill may fluctuate more in the cold, which means food can take longer to finish cooking
- Propane stays in a liquid state at -44 degrees fahrenheit. But we doubt you’ll be doing any grilling anywhere close to that temperature!
You will also need to take a few steps to ensure you are safe and comfortable outside in the cold. Dress warmly, but avoid baggy clothing or other items that may pose a fire risk, like long scarves. Make sure you have a clear path to and from the grill, and that it is free of ice or other fall risks.
Start Grilling in Springtime
Spring is a perfect time to begin grilling. The pleasantly cooler temperatures are ideal for low and slow cooking, which might otherwise be too oppressive in the summer heat. The best meats for this kind of grill are generally tougher and from the muscular portions of the animal, such as shoulders and briskets.
Grilling is also a great option for easy weeknight meals during the school year. You can grill meat and vegetables in a matter of minutes, and there are no pots and pans to clean up after.
Prep Before You Start Grilling
Cleaning Your Grill
The first step to prepping your grill is cleaning it. This should be done regularly (i.e. after each use) but also at the beginning of each grilling season. If you haven’t used your grill in a while, chances are it could use a good scrubbing. To clean your grill, remove all parts and brush off any stuck-on particles with a stiff wire brush. Then wash each part with mild soap and water and dry thoroughly before putting everything back together again.
Once you’ve completed your start-of-the-season deep clean, you will want to maintain your grill after each use. Scrape it down thoroughly with a clean wire brush. For charcoal grills, remove accumulated ash and smoke residue; for gas grills, clean the drip pan after each use.
After each cleaning, run a paper towel soaked with canola oil over the grates. This helps season them and prevent rust build up. Also be sure to regularly clean your wire brush with boiling water or soak it in warm soapy water, then rinse.
Inspecting Your Grill Parts
Once your grill is clean, inspect all parts for damage or wear and tear such as loose screws, cracked plastic pieces, broken handles, etc.. If anything looks suspect, replace it right away so it doesn’t cause any problems later on down the road. Also check the propane tank (if applicable). Make sure the hose isn’t worn or frayed and that all connections are tight and secure before using it again this summer season. You will also want to inspect for insects or other animals that may have decided to overwinter inside the hoses.
Grill Packages Delivered to Your Door
Grilling is all about the meat, and you don’t want to compromise on quality. If you are looking for a convenient way to get the best cuts of meat delivered right to your door, try one of Texas de Brazil’s grill packages. Grade A lamb, pork chops, sausages, steaks, and our famous picanha will ensure your next barbecue is unforgettable.