May 29, 2005

By: Fran Christie
Website: http://www.outdoor-furniture-plus.com

Outdoor Cooking - Where Do You Start?

Until recently, easy outdoor cooking has always been synonymous with charcoal barbeques with hotdogs and hamburgers sizzling and smoking on the grill. Condiments like mustard, relish and ketchup were nearby with onions & tomatoes ready to top off the most popular summer meal ever invented. Now, with the development of sophisticated grills like gas grills and smokers, cooking outdoors has taken on a whole new level of sophistication – outdoor fine dining if you will.

Something worth noting is that people often use the term barbeque when referring to foods that are grilled, but barbequing and grilling are two completely different processes. Barbequing refers to foods that are cooked with a long, slow process using indirect, low-heat generated by smoldering logs or wood chips that smoke-cook the food. Grilling refers to foods that are cooked quickly and over high heat. The best temperature for barbecuing is between 200°F and 300°F. If the temperature rises higher it is considered grilling. Knowing that, the high heat of grilling sears the surface of the meat sealing in the natural juices and creating a flavorful crust. Easy outdoor grilling at its best.

So, lets start with the basics. First is your choice of protein. Steak, chicken, seafood, hotdogs hamburgers have been the staple of many backyard barbeques for decades. Recently, veggie burgers have joined the list as a favorite protein and meat alternative for those who are vegetarian or have health considerations. Easy to prepare grilled vegetables are a perfect addition to any BBQ but how does Acorn Squash with Asiago Cheese or Artichoke Kebabs sound with that perfect filet mignon or grilled salmon?

No barbeque is complete without using sauces or marinades that are also easy to prepare. If you are looking for new recipe ideas for sauces and marinades for your steak, chicken, seafood or grilled veggies, search online by typing in "recipes for bbq sauces and marinades", and you will find the choices are as endless as there are stars in the sky. Bon appetite!

For more information about outdoor cooking or to purchase a product, visit our outdoor grills product page.

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About The Author:

Fran Christie is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.outdoor-furniture-plus.com.  Helping you find quality outdoor furniture, hammocks, chairs, lighting and more!