Barbecuing is an American Tradition. No matter what day of the year or season, Americans are enjoying cooking on outdoor barbecue grills. Most times, barbecuing turns into more of a social event rather than just a meal, but that’s OK because it can be a year-round event. Using outdoor grills in any season is common — since early cavemen figured out that food tastes great after being cooked on an open fire!
Where does America barbecue? According to the survey, 89 percent prefer to hold family barbecues in their backyards, compared with 3 percent who prefer a public park or picnic area. Barbecues are a great way to bring the family together, entertain friends, and do it without breaking the budget.
These few simple tips will make your experience with outdoor cooking grills even easier:
- Marinating musts: Marinating meat adds flavor and tenderization before cooking. Every marinade should contain an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar or wine; an oil, such as olive or canola; and seasonings, such as herbs and spices.
- Barbecue in bulk: Got leftovers? No problem. Barbecued meals freeze well, and often become more flavorful when the sauce and spices are reheated at a later date. Once you have fired up the grill, cook as much as you can handle since your food will maintain its flavor for future meals. Then thaw, reheat and just add sauce for delicious leftovers.
- Have a back-up plan: If you live in a climate that cannot be predicted, then you may want to have a backup plan. You can’t always predict rain and unexpected chilly temperatures ahead of time, so have a Plan B when company is coming. If you end up eating inside, cooking remains as planned on outdoor grills as long as the area is protected from the weather. No sense getting the grillmaster soaking wet!
Now that the days are longer, it’s easy to step outside and cook dinner on the grill. Not only does the food that comes from barbecuing have a taste that is unmatched by other cooking methods, but your house will remain cooler on hot days because you’re not turning on the stove. Your family will love the meal, and you’ll love the convenience.
Most etymologists believe that barbecue derives from the word barabicu found in the language of the Taíno people of the Caribbean and the Timucua of Florida, and entered European languages in the form barbacoa. The word translates as “sacred fire pit”.