Grilled barbecue: how to master the traditional preparation

Grilling barbecue is a tradition that goes beyond simply cooking meat. It's an experience that brings friends and family together around the fire, providing moments of joy and incomparable flavor.

We know that the art of grilling meat is appreciated in various cultures, but here in Brazil, it gets a special touch, with techniques and cuts that make all the difference!

For those who want to master grilling barbecue, knowing the best practices is essential, which is why CIMO has developed a complete guide with essential tips for you to hit the mark with your grilled barbecue.

Essential tips for a perfect grilled barbecue

Despite seeming like a difficult task, grilling meat effectively is simple! For this, some techniques cannot be overlooked, and some precautions must be taken to avoid mistakes.

Below, we list the main tips that will transform your grilled meat, with very easy preparation methods. Check it out!

1. Choose the ideal grill for your barbecue

Our first step is choosing the right grill, after all, it will be the base of our preparation and needs to be efficient. There are several types of grills available on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages, so when planning a barbecue at home, choosing the ideal grill for you is fundamental.

Discover the main types:

• Traditional stainless steel grill: it is suitable for all types of meat, bread, and even vegetables. Furthermore, it is resistant, easy to clean, and does not rust. The most recommended models are those with thin rods;

• Cast iron grill: ideal for searing meats as it retains heat for longer and distributes it evenly;

• Argentine grill: perfect for use with fatty meats that need fat melting control. Additionally, it reduces excessive smoke and prevents the meat from drying out, resulting in a healthier barbecue;

• Parrilla grill: if the goal is to grill thicker cuts of meat slowly, count on the parrilla. Its surface with smaller gaps ensures that juices and fats do not fall directly into the fire, resulting in a more uniform and flavorful barbecue;

• Wire grill: the best ally when the main course of the barbecue is fish, chicken, or sausage, as it facilitates the handling of smaller foods and ensures uniform cooking, ideal for quicker preparations.

In addition to the material, the size of the grill is also important!

• Larger grills are ideal for those who usually host many guests;

• While smaller grills are perfect for smaller barbecues.

Another factor to consider is portability. If you like to barbecue in different locations, a portable grill may be the best choice.

2. Preparing the meats: the importance of the cut

In addition to choosing the grill, selecting the meat cuts is one of the most important steps for a successful grilled barbecue.

1. Cuts like picanha are classics that please everyone; here, it is recommended to grill it in large pieces or sliced, always searing first and then letting it cook over medium heat. Furthermore, never remove the fat before preparation, as it is essential to ensure juiciness;

2. The sirloin, on the other hand, stands out for its distinctive flavor and firm texture, with a lateral layer of fat that intensifies the taste on the grill;

3. The rump cap, in turn, is a tender, succulent cut with little fat, ideal for longer roasts or sliced for skewers. To enhance its natural flavor, simply season it with coarse salt and grill it slowly;

4. Another barbecue classic is the flank steak, an extremely succulent meat with long fibers and great flavor. The secret of this cut lies in the preparation: it should be cooked at medium temperature to prevent it from drying out.

5. For those who like fattier and tenderer cuts, ribs are the perfect option. The best way to prepare them is on a grill over medium coals, turning frequently for even cooking;

6. The top sirloin is also an excellent meat option for barbecue, balancing flavor, juiciness, and low fat. It can be prepared in large pieces or sliced, making it a great choice for those looking for a versatile cut;

7. Another variation of the top sirloin is the baby beef, a tenderer part ideal for grilling in medallions, ensuring a sophisticated and flavorful barbecue.

3. Seasoning the meat strategically

The barbecue seasoning is also essential to enhance the flavor of the meats. Good coarse salt is the most traditional and foolproof option. For those who want to go further and add a distinct flavor, marinades with herbs and spices can bring a special touch.

It's always important to balance the seasonings so as not to spoil the natural flavor of the meat and end up compromising the quality of the barbecue, so whatever the seasoning, use it in moderation.

4. Light the coals and control the ideal temperature

With the meat in hand, it's time to light the coals correctly. Using quality charcoal and natural fire starters helps avoid unwanted odors. After lighting the coals, remember to control the heat to ensure the meats are cooked evenly. Maintaining a constant temperature prevents the meats from burning on the outside and being raw on the inside, ensuring the right doneness.

To control the heat, it is important to know the different heat zones of the grill. The direct heat zone is ideal for searing meats, while the indirect heat zone is perfect for cooking larger cuts slowly. Additionally, adjust the amount of charcoal and the height of the grill to maintain heat control.

How to avoid mistakes when grilling meat?

Some errors can compromise the quality of the barbecue, such as the excessive use of seasonings that mask the natural flavor of the meat. Irregular cuts can also result in uneven cooking, so it is important to cut the meat correctly.

Another common mistake is not letting the meat rest after cooking. This resting time is crucial for the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful meat. Also, avoid piercing the meat with forks or skewers during cooking, as this can cause the juices to be lost.

The importance of utensils in grilling barbecue

The utensils used in barbecue play a fundamental role in the result! Sharpened knives are essential for cutting meat precisely, avoiding irregular cuts that damage the meat fibers. Additionally, quality tongs help handle food without piercing, preserving its juices.

Don't forget the skewers and cutting boards! They are also important for an organized and safe barbecue. Besides the basic utensils, there are accessories that can make life easier for frequent grillers. Auxiliary grills, digital thermometers, and skewer holders are some examples of items that can make the process more practical and efficient.

The place that brings together the best cutlery utensils to ensure maximum quality for your barbecue is CIMO! With a vast selection of pocket knives, knives, and barbecue items, we offer items that will ensure precise cuts for your barbecue, preserving the texture and flavor of each cut.

Visit our barbecue page and find the items that will transform your grilled barbecue!