Useful culinary techniques from the world’s most renowned chefs.
Culinary Techniques
Grilling

Grilling

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Grilling is a true art form, one that takes experience and practice to perfect, not least because all grills are different and outdoor cooking is a rare pleasure in the UK. It is well worth being prepared when the opportunity arises, and knowing your techniques will allow you to cook a wide variety of dishes for a large number and get the most from the sun.
Instructions:
  • Grill Temperatures
  • If cooking over coals, ensure they are very hot with a white layer of ash over them. If cooking on gas, allow 15 minutes with the burners on high and the lid down.
  • Because temperatures will vary, an approximate guide to the heat of your grill is necessary. Carefully place your hand palm down near, but not against the heat, and see how long you can keep your hand at grill level for.

  • Very hot: 1 to 2 seconds.
  • Hot: 2 to 3 seconds.
  • Medium-hot: 3 to 4 seconds.
  • Medium: 4 to 5 seconds.
  • Medium-low: 5 to 6 seconds.
  • Low: 6 to 7 seconds.

  • Preparation:
  • Choose lean meats and remove as much fat as possible before cooking.
  • Ensure all foods are at room temperature before grilling, and to avoid the risk of contamination, don't allow foods to sit unrefrigerated for more than 20-30 minutes.

  • Basic rules:
  • When smoking foods, cook slowly and at a low heat.
  • For grilling thinner pieces of meat, cook at high temperature and fast. When one side is done, flip and cook the other side, directly over the coals.
  • For thicker pieces, cook over an area of indirect heat, so they can cook through completely. If necessary, partially cover to retain the heat.
  • Take care with everything you are cooking, each type of grill cooks foods differently, and each type of food requires different attention.
  • An instant-read meat thermometer can be useful to determine if your food is well cooked through.
  • Once grilled foods have been cooked, don’t delay to time with other foods. If it’s cooked to perfection, it's time to eat, so prepare your side dishes and dining area beforehand.