Barbecue Tools Buying Guide

Barbecuing  requires a whole separate set of equipment from your daily kitchen utensils.  To grill effectively, you at least need the basics. Often you can buy sets of tools,  but if you have specialized needs you might want to acquire each piece individually.  Most grill tools have longer handles and are built to withstand more abuse than their indoor counterparts. Strong (often wood) handles and a comfortable grip are must-haves.

Necessities

Tongs  A perfect way to pick anything up off the grill. There are some tongs with a spatula on one side and a fork on the other.	Spatula /Turner  These are especially good for turning over larger items to ensure even cooking. Look for extra-wide spatulas  for turning fish  and burgers.	Basting Brush  Some basting brushes have a hollow handle so you can squirt on more sauce and brush it out with one motion.	Fork  Avoid forks with built-in thermometers, since they tend to not be accurate. Instead, buy a separate meat thermometer.	Grill Brush  A must-have for keeping your grill nice and clean. It's always a good idea to give it a cleaning after each use to make sure that grit doesn't pile up.

More Options

Carving Knife  These work in case you need to cut anything on the grill. They are also good for carving when you're done cooking.	Charcoal Basket  Keep charcoal exactly where you want it to be without making a mess.	Grill Thermometer  Make sure your grill has reached the right temperature before you start cooking.	Grill Light  For the person who cooks no matter the season or time of day.	Wood Chips  If you want to add smokey flavor to your food, try some wood chips in the smoker basket.

Specialized Accessories

Many accessories are meant for grilling very specific foods; as with any kitchen gadget, they're really only necessary if you make a certain dish on a regular basis. A standard grill basket  is very useful, and can do many of the same things that more specialized tools can do.  

Skewers  Flat skewers are more expensive, but they will make it easier to turn the kabobs.	Corn Grill Basket  Keep your corn  from rolling around on the grill while you get it nice and brown.	Fish Grill Basket  Flipping fish  is a lot easier with one of these! They are especially useful since fish can tend to fall apart on the grill.	Grill Basket  These are useful for items you want to keep together and flip over to make dishes such as veggie stir fry.

Grill Grid  This can be placed directly on the grill to prevent small food items from falling through the grates and leaving space to sprinkle seasonings.	Grill Press  Ensures even cooking (and flat burgers). Also good for a grilled panini!	Grill Skillet  A variation on the grill grid, for cooks who like to do all their cooking outdoors.	Corn Cob Holders  Prevent burnt and buttered fingers. You can also find butter holders  to make it easier to butter the cob.

Grilling Tips

• There are two ways to grill which require using direct heat or indirect heat--keep in mind that for each method of grilling your technique will vary depending on whether you use a charcoal  or gas grill. 
• Heat your grill up before using it to cook.
• Grease your grill grates before using them to avoid lots of messy clean-up.
• Marinating  meat before cooking can help to tenderize and prepare it for cooking.
• Always use tongs when turning your meat so you are not poking holes in the food, thereby allowing natural juices to escape.

Outdoor Cooking Alternatives

These cookers are designed to be used outside, but are slightly different from a grill. If you are looking to try a different type of outdoor cooking, then consider some of the models below.

Cast Iron Fish Cooker  This cooker is designed specifically for use outdoors and comes with a fry pot and lid for preparing the fish of your choice.	Outdoor Cooking System  This is a stockpot that is designed for outdoor use and comes with a poultry rack  for easier cooking.	Aluminum Fish Cooker  This system is easy to set up outdoors and can be used to fry your fish quickly and easily.	4-Gallon Jambalaya Kit  This pot is mounted on a tripod stand and is designed specifically for making jambalaya.  The cast iron pot holds up to 4 gallons of food.

Related Guides

Grills	Outdoor Dining	Spices	Outdoor Furniture

External Links

• GrillingTips.com: Grilling methods and best practices.