Essential grilling equipment and tools for this summer season.  The must haves for grilling are a grill (which pretty much is not needed to be stated) tongs, thermometers, and much more.  For most beginner grillers the right equipment is usually a few key pieces and not a long list of things; but when you find yourself in front of your grill over and over than you can start to expand your grilling accessories. 

I know this beautiful sunny weather here in orlando is definitely sending me into a grilling frenzy 😉

Follow this list by Epicurious and you will be off to a great start as the Next Grilling King!

The most essential tool that is needed of course is the grill.  Without this piece of equipment you cannot grill, of course.  Grills range anywhere from $150 to $8,000.  Always remember that you have the choice between a gas grill or a charcoal grill.  

=> A Lid is Essential.  Make sure to buy a grill that has a lid, this is required for indirect grilling. The lid will keep in on both sides of the food rather than directly below it.  Closing the lid helps air circulate which will allow the food to cook more evenly.

=> Going bigger apparently is better.  Deciding on a bigger grill will always entice you to grill more.

=> Don’t Over Accessorize.  Before going all out and purchasing all the new and expensive grilling side gadgets, first think about if you will really use them and if so for what.

Essential Tools

Tongs

These are the most used and one of the most essential grilling tool.  The majority of grilling can be used with these alone.  Heavy-duty stainless steel with a scalloped or oval tip, are the best ones to purchase.  Tongs should have a soft, comfortable grip. Those with a locking mechanism are the easiest to store and use.

Spatula

Make sure to purchase a durable spatula with a deep handle and a beveled edge, this allows you the ability to get under food and not have it break apart while picking it up.  Also try to find a spatula with a solid metal core so that it will be strong enough to support heavier food.  

Grilling Brushes

These brushes are a key element when basting chicken, ribs, and steak on the grill. Look for a brush with an angled, long handle, about 13 to 15 inches long.  Silicone bristles are the best option, they’re heat-resistant and dishwasher safe.

Instant-Read Thermometer

Analog thermometers will read the internal temperature of food in less than a minute and usually are more accurate than digital ones.  Look for ones that can be easily recalibrated with a hex nut and that has a large and easy-to-read face. 

Chimney Starter

A chimney starter allows you the ability to light and heat charcoal before adding it to the grill.  Make sure to look for a heavy duty , unpainted , untreated steel able to withstand high heat time after time.  It should also have a heat-resistant handle, with an additional handle for steadying.

Brass Bristle Cleaning Brush

These grill cleaning brushes are designed to remove the left over residue that is accumulated on the grates each time grilling takes place. Brass bristles are preferable to steel because they are softer and won’t damage cooking grates. A flat scraper at the top of the brush is helpful for getting rid of cooked-on residue that is a little harder to remove, and always a pain to get off.  Look for a brush that comes with a replaceable brush head.

Gloves and/or Mitts

Having long gloves or mitts are a must, they will protect your hands, wrist, and lower arms from possible burns when cooking with open fires.  Silicone versions are dishwasher safe and won’t catch on fire.  If working with suede or cloth mitts, make sure to get ones that are thick, heat-resistant and are washable.

Paraffin Wax Fire Starters

A chimney starter requires some sort of fire starter, these are the easiest ones to start it.  They are sold individually wrapped.  Make sure to purchase ones that are odorless, tasteless, nontoxic starters made of mostly (or all) paraffin. The best ones light immediately.

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