Gear Up
Category: Products Published on Saturday, 26 February 2011 16:25 Written by Super User Hits: 192
The grilling world doesn’t require hype or gimmicks. Arm yourself with proper info and solid gear
Tools of the trade
A craftsman has tools.
First and foremost, your grill must be capable of creating two zones for cooking, blazing hot and warm, as well as a lid. Grills that are longer, rather than wider, are preferred.
Shown here is a good, no frills, basic BBQ pit that would be well suited for grilling.
Never, NEVER use a fork or any tool that penetrates your food to flip like hooks, forks, pokers; never break that outside 
shell. The best tool for manipulating what's being cooked is something that can be an extension of your hand, I speak of tongs. Look for tongs that are long and very sturdy. Go to any discount retailer/mart with cooking or kitchen supplies and test a few out. Tongs should be light in weight, and pass a pinch test. The test involves using the tongs to grab your own wrist in the way you would grab a steak to flip and squeeze the tongs. Is there a lot of flex? Can you squeeze down on the tongs and grab firmly? When flipping food you want to know that you are holding it securely and there is little to no chance of slippage. Here is a great example of no frills tongs. Look for something in the 12" to 18" range.
Visit a restaurant kitchen and you'll quickly learn that one of the most important items that is constantly fought over is the hand towel. Now this isn't a 
cleaner for a dirty hand that should really be washed, but rather a means to wipe a wet hand, wipe off a surface, or an insulator for grabbing a hot item or tool. Size and color are really up to your preference, but defiantly pick up a towel that is a little abrasive and nicely absorbent. Avoid micro fibers and/or synthetic fibers. They’re rubbish for a griller’s needs. Once used, toss them in your washing machine and sanitize. Once its dry you’ll have a like new, clean towel for the next cookout; saving on napkin and paper towels. Hit a big discount store and pick up anything in the 14"x17" range. Keep it hanging out of your pocket, or tucked around a belt loop, on the table in front of you, or anywhere else within sight, but always have it nearby. You’re going to need it.
Don't be a sucker
Don't buy hype. Watch for gimmicks. Don’t make grilling complicated. Things like accessory lights or LED’s, or silicone anything ARE NOT WORTH YOUR MONEY. If you cook in the dark, get a proper flashlight. Buying silicone tongs? Keep them inside to flip bacon. Use your money to buy finer cuts of quality meat – NOT silly and useless accessories. Spend money on finer cuts of meat not on useless accessories.
Gimmick Food torture Weak