Summers become much more enchanting and pleasurable with friends and family coming together for the much-loved outdoor activity, grilling.
But while most of us are used to grilling the usual burgers, hot dogs, and steaks, a whole world of unexpected foods can benefit from the smoky, charred flavours only grilling can provide.
Are you ready to tickle your taste buds and amaze your party guests? Here's a tour of how you can turn your grill into a stage with an unexpected variety of foods.
The joy of grilling is not just its flavours; it's remarkable because it affords an excellent opportunity for caramelization and slight char that no other direct flame procedure can top.
Taking a step away from traditional barbecue fare can transform your cooking time and, who knows, may even introduce new favourite dishes to your culinary repertoire.
Let's break out of the mould and consider how grilling unconventional foods can change your next barbecue.
Here are six foods you might not have considered grilling but definitely should, along with tips on how to prepare them:
How to Grill: Halve the avocados and remove the pit. Brush the cut sides lightly with oil. Place the avocado halves face-down on the hot grill grates. Cook for 5-7 minutes until distinct grill marks appear.
Suggestions: Add to a salad, serve as a smoky side, or just top with salsa and a squeeze of lime.
How to Grill: Cut the heads of romaine lengthwise in half. Brush with just a little oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes each side.
How to Serve: Chop and toss your grilled romaine with Caesar dressing, parmesan, and croutons for a smokier version of a Caesar salad or drizzle with balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.
How to Grill: Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. Lightly brush the cut sides with oil to avoid sticking to the grill. Grill the halved fruit flesh-side down until it's caramelized and tender, which takes around 4-5 minutes.
Serving Ideas: Grilled peaches can be served alone with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple but sublime dessert or chop them into a salad with goat cheese and arugula.
How to Grill: Place the whole wheel of Brie directly over the fire in a small cast-iron skillet. Grill it over medium heat for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this grilled Brie with sliced baguette and apple slices, or drizzle it with honey.
How to Grill: Cut the watermelon into thick, sturdy slices. Lightly brush with olive oil, then grill on high heat for 2 minutes per side.
Serving Suggestion: Grilled chicken is best served with a few sprinkles of salt, chopped mint, or crumbled feta cheese for a surprising and refreshing dish in hot summer.
How to Grill: Halve the doughnuts and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast on the grill, cut side down, about 1-2 minutes per side, until crispy and warmed.
Serving Suggestions: For a decadent dessert, serve grilled doughnuts with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.
Consider the following tips to ensure success when grilling these unusual items:
● Maintain the Right Temperature: Keep your grill at the exact temperature for each type of food to prevent burning or undercooking.
● Tool Up: Use grill baskets or foil packets for small or delicate items that may fall through the grill grates.
● Season Well: The right seasonings and pre-grill preparations can make all the difference. Light coatings of oil can help prevent sticking and enhance flavour.
Now that you know how to grill those unorthodox foods, why not fire up your grill and experiment with them? Each offers a unique and peculiar flavour, adding a 'wow' factor to your culinary creations.
And remember to share your grilling adventures, discoveries, or any other unusual foods you love grilling. Please post your stories or photos online and inspire others to expand their grilling horizons, too!
Happy grilling!
