How to Choose the Right Tools for Your Backyard Barbecue Grill
Ok ya’ll it is officially backyard barbecue season. Memorial Day is both the start of summer (unofficial that is) and backyard barbecue season. However, in Texas the year-round warm weather usually means we can, and do, barbecue through our two seasons—summer, and well, winter. But, even if your grill is prepped and ready to go to become the master of your backyard barbecue grill you will need to equip yourself with the right tools.
Don’t let your sizzle fizzle
Not having the right tools can fizzle your sizzle. To achieve barbecuing success you’ll only need a handful of tried and true essential tools. Climb to the top of the grilling ladder with this list of tools available in most large retail chains such as Target, Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Lowes and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. Or, check-out prices online at Amazon. All of these retailers carry top brands including Weber, KitchenAid, OXO, and much more.
The Top Six Essential Backyard Barbecue Grilling Tools
- Chimney starter – This tool gets the top spot if you have a charcoal grill. A chimney starter is tall, cylinder-like in appearance and is metal. But, the reason to use it is because it is a safer and healthier option than using lighter fluid to heat your charcoal. To ignite your fire just place a few pieces of newspaper into the starter and light them with a match. Prices range from $11 to $25.
- Long-handled spatula – Use a metal off-set long-handled spatula for flipping ease and tender meats and fish. Choosing a metal spatula here is the key. Quality spatulas range in price from $12 to as high as $41.
- Long-handled tongs – To ensure moist, juicy meats such as steaks, chops, and chicken turn meats. Select tongs that are at least 16 inches long, sturdy stainless steel, spring loaded, and able to hold large cuts of meat. Some of the better quality varieties start at $18.
- Instant read thermometer – It is never wise to rely on sight when it comes to cooking meats and poultry to its correct doneness. Use an instant read thermometer to make sure your meats register at safe internal temperatures. Check out the Thermapen thermometer by Thermoworks for both speed and accuracy.
- Wire grill brush – This sturdy tool keeps your grill clean before, during, and after grilling. Look for wire varieties with long handles. Using this tool before you start grilling prevents your food from sticking. It also helps to remove carbon bits and stuck on food and sauces from a previous grilling session. Again, prices vary.
- Grill gloves – It is best to choose thick, heavy-weight, up to the elbow varieties that will protect your hands from high temperatures. Purchase leather cotton-lined welding gloves for maximum protection. The average cost is $15.
The Extras – Not essential but good to have on hand
Round out your toolbox with a vegetable basket, basting brush, and a rib rack for grilling ease and tasty results. These additional tools aren’t necessary but they are great to have on hand.
For now, enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, and have a great summer!
