Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Hot Weather Means Bar-B-Que Time

By Jon Q Zimberski

Are you one of those people who think barbequeing is only for the Summer? If so, you're missing out on some of the best grilling times of the year. Maybe you don't wear white after Labor Day, but you better break out the grill and smoker because you can server up mouth watering food during the dead of winter.

The cool weather of Fall and Winter offers us backyarders a time to get out and grill up some of our favorite meat. Since the weather is so nice, why not make it a family affair? To me, cooking in the Fall and Winter sure beats standing over a hot grill when it's 100 degrees outside. In fact, as I write this, it's 28 degrees outside and I have a Venison roast in the smoker. Talk about good eats!

Wintertime grilling can be a Family affair. In fact, whenever we have friends over for a Holiday party, my grill and smoker is going strong. I've never had a complaint about the food we serve at these parties. In fact, many want to know when we're having another one!

There are a few things you will need to keep in mind before heading out in the Winter to bbq. For starters, it will take longer for your grill or smoker to heat up. So plan accordingly.

If you're using an electric smoker, you may have to wrap it in an insulating blanket. You can generally by these as accessories from vendors who sell smoker supplies. Whatever you use, make sure it's fire proof. I know one fellow who set his smoker on fire and ruined one of his Wife's quilts after wrapping his smoker!

Since your grill will cool down quicker, I like to use a little extra wood or charcoal. This helps the meat cook better and keeps your grill at the right temperature. Also, try and place your grill or smoker out of the wind. Even gas grills can have a problem staying hot if there's a cold North wind blowing on it.

You'll also need to take into consideration where your grill and smoker are set up. Chances are you have some dead grass or other vegetation in the immediate area. This can go up like a Roman candle from the smallest of sparks, especially if there is a wind to help it out. Always keep these areas mowed and if in doubt, hose down the area around your grill and smoker.

So just because it's a little cold outside doesn't mean you have to put up the grill. Keep them out and use them on a regular basis and enjoy the tasty treats your bbq will serve up. Try cooking your Holiday meals out on the grill. Nothing says lovin' like fresh smoked Ham or grilled Turkey for those Holiday dinners!

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