Switching to a gas grill can be pretty exciting. It's nice to have more control over the temperature, and not to have to handle messy charcoal each time you want to cook. Still, there are some intricacies to the operation of gas grills that you might need to get used to. Follow these tips for delicious results when you've newly switching to gas.
1. Remember to Preheat
No, you don't have to wait for coals to burn down as you do with a charcoal grill. But that does not mean you should plop the food right onto the grill the second you turn it on. Let the grill preheat for about 10 minutes before you add any food. This will ensure the grates are nice and hot so that they produce a good sear. It will also help make sure the timing for your cooking is accurate, since the grill will be hot throughout your cooking time.
2. Sear First, Then Close the Lid
When the lid is open, your food will primarily cook on the bottom surface, which will produce a good sear. When you close the lid, the trapped heat will cook the food throughout. Make sure you first cook the food with the lid open for a minute to produce a good sear, and then close the lid. If you cook the whole time without a lid, your food will be unevenly cooked and cooking will take much longer.
3. Use Edges for Cooler Holding
The edges of the grill -- those spots that are further from the burner -- are not as hot as the center of the grill. If you have food that is mostly cooked, but you're still waiting for a few other items to finish cooking, push that already cooked food to the edges to keep it warm and finish the cooking process.
4. Use Your Thermometer
Over time, you will get used to your gas grill's temperatures and how long it takes to grill certain items. But for now, you should rely on your thermometer. Take the temp of everything, from burgers to chicken breasts, to get a handle on what they look like when they are done and how long it takes them to reach that stage.
With the tips above, you should get lovely results when cooking on your gas grill, even as someone new to the setup. For additional tips, reach out to a professional installer, such as Thompson's Gas Inc. Enjoy your dinner!
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