What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1141216
featured dining guide story Advertorial Feature SPECIAL TO nwA DEmOCrAT-GAzETTE Step up your grill game 42 What's up! JuLY 14-20, 2019 Setting the record (and grate) straight about open-flame cooking O utdoor grills are seemingly everywhere, including many backyards across Northwest Arkansas. That grills are so commonplace doesn't mean that everyone grilling is employing the right techniques. Cooking food over an open fire imparts all sorts of flavor. Grilling tends to be quicker, less messy and more convenient than cooking in the kitchen - particularly during the dog days of summer Grillmasters and pitmasters work hard to produce mouth-watering fare. Many may develop secret recipes, rubs, sauces, and cooking techniques all in the name of flavorful food. Certain myths about grilling and barbecuing have prevailed through the years. Such misconceptions may discourage newcomers from picking up their tongs and spatulas. Setting the record straight about common grilling myths can be just what people need to embrace cooking foods over an open flame. Myth: You can tell the temperature of the grill by placing your hand over the grates. Fact: Everyone reacts differently to heat, so the best way to gauge temperature is by using a thermometer. Myth: Grilled chicken is done when the juices run clear. Fact: Even well-done chicken can form juices that are pink-hued. It's from a protein called myoglobin, according to the book "Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling." Use a cooking thermometer to learn when poultry is safe to eat, typically at 160 to 165 F. Myth: Marinating is best for grilling and tenderizing. Fact: It seems that marinades really do not penetrate much beyond the surface of the meat and can keep the outer surface of the food wet, preventing searing and browning. In addition, basting food with sugar-laden sauces and marinades too early can cause flare-ups and burning. Rubs and salts can be more effective at adding flavor. Reserve the sauce for the last few minutes of grilling. Serve a dipping sauce for additional flavor if people desire.