Barbecuing 101

Here's the article I wrote about before. Ten helpful barbecue hints that would make Heloise herself proud:

1) Consider Charcoal

The quality of food cooked on a propane barbecue can't be denied, but there's also something to be said for the primitive charm of a charcoal grill. The price is less prohibitive, and you just can't beat that smoky aroma (and taste). It's the perfect smell on a warm summer evening in the outdoors.

2) The Chimney

Should you go the charcoal route, you might consider an alternative to starter fluid, which can leave a nasty taste on your food. A chimney starter is an excellent alternative, using only paper to make your coals red hot. Look for one at your local hardware store.

3) Potlucks

Whatever type of grill you use, barbecuing is a joy best shared with friends... and the more friends, the better! If everyone pitches in, chances are you'll all get to try something you've never had before.

4) Finger Food

If everyone brought knackwurst to your potluck... well... that would be a lot of knackwurst. Encourage people to provide beverages or appetizers. These don't have to be barbecued themselves (although shish kebabs make a great start to the proceedings); chips or pitas and dip make for a nice buildup to the main event.

5) Homemade Dips & Sauces

Cooking a meal for friends is in itself a great exercise in DIY, but why stop there? Add a personal touch by making your own dips and sauces... maybe using ingredients from your own garden. If that sounds intimidating, take the time to check out a farmers' market in your area. You're sure to find something unique and homemade. Your guests will appreciate it.

6) Ignore Bad Weather

If you're committed to throwing an awesome party, no weather is bad weather for barbecuing. The living room may not have the ambiance of your backyard picnic table, but there's something to be said for perseverance in the face of adversity. Just make sure the cook has access to an umbrella.

7) Make Your Own BBQ

If cooking for friends and making your own ingredients is not DIY enough for you, why not build your own grill too? An oven rack and a circle of rocks might be all it takes. Heck, I've seen barbecues made out of discarded sinks. Get creative!

8) BBQ's Can Be Good For You

Those cheese-filled sausages are tasty, but oh-so-decadent. Barbecuing doesn't have to be unhealthy though... try turkey sausage instead of pork, or lean ground beef. The barbecue wok is a handy tool for upping the vegetable content.

9) Be Veg-Friendly

The barbecue has long been associated with wanton carnivorism, and with good reason. A well-executed barbecue potluck should embrace vegetarians too. Keep this in mind when prospective guests ask for suggestions on what to bring. Most vegetarians won't insist on a "clean" spatula, but offer to use one anyway. If you have two grills, make one veg-only. If not, cook in shifts, alternating meat with veg while giving the grill a quick brush in between. Your efforts won't go unnoticed.

10) Consider Home Brewing

For some, nothing tops off a summer barbecue like a cold brew. If you want to take the do-it-yourself barbecue ethic to the next level (and amaze your guests), look into brewing your own beer, or even wine. While home brewing may not be for everyone, releasing a fresh batch on the day of the potluck could be the icing on the cake.