Congrats on Your New Grill! Now What?
What To Do For New Grill Owners
Congratulations on your brand new grill! Whether it's a sleek gas model or a classic charcoal setup, you're about to embark on a delicious journey of outdoor cooking. But before you start sizzling up your first batch of burgers or ribs, there are a few important steps you'll want to take to ensure your grill is properly set up and ready to deliver mouthwatering results.
Read the Manual
The first thing you'll want to do is thoroughly read through the manufacturer's manual. Yes, we know - reading instructions isn't the most exciting part of getting a new toy. But trust us, taking the time to familiarize yourself with your grill's specific features and safety guidelines will pay off big time in the long run.
The manual will provide crucial information on assembling your grill, understanding the various controls and settings, and properly maintaining it. Pay close attention to any safety warnings, as grilling can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.
Initial Setup
Once you've reviewed the manual, it's time to get your grill ready for its maiden voyage. Start by removing any protective film or packaging from the exterior and interior surfaces. This will help ensure you don't accidentally cook anything you don't want to eat.
Next, you'll want to burn off any manufacturing oils or residues that may be left over from the production process. This is an important step, as you don't want those chemicals to end up in your food. Simply fire up the grill, set it to high heat, and let it run for 15-20 minutes with the lid closed. This will burn off any unwanted substances and help season the grates.
First Grill Cycle
After the initial burn-off, it's time to let your grill go through a full cycle. Turn it on and let it run for at least 30 minutes, again with the lid closed. This will help stabilize the temperature and ensure everything is functioning properly before you start cooking.
Choosing Your First Cook
Now comes the fun part - deciding what to grill first! As tempting as it might be to go all out with a rack of ribs or a whole chicken, we recommend keeping things simple for your inaugural cook. Stick to basics like burgers, hot dogs, or even just some basic grilled vegetables. This will allow you to get a feel for how your grill performs without the added complexity of more elaborate dishes.
Seasoning Your Grill
Before you start cooking, you'll also want to take a few minutes to season your grill grates. This helps create a nonstick surface and prevents food from sticking. Simply brush or wipe a thin layer of high-heat cooking oil (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil) onto the grates. Then, fire up the grill and let it run for 15-20 minutes to bake in the seasoning.
Finding the Perfect Spot
The final step in getting your grill ready for action is finding the perfect spot for it. You'll want to place it on a level, stable surface that's away from any overhanging trees or structures. Make sure there's plenty of clearance around the sides and back of the grill to allow for proper airflow and ventilation.
Safety should also be a top priority when choosing a location. Avoid placing the grill too close to your home, deck railings, or any flammable materials. And be sure to keep it a safe distance from high-traffic areas where people (or pets) might accidentally bump into it.
With your grill all set up and ready to go, you can now start experimenting with different recipes and techniques. Remember to always follow basic safety guidelines, and don't be afraid to get creative. Grilling is all about having fun and enjoying the delicious results. Happy cooking!
