There are few food-related gatherings as much fun as a cookout. With friends assembled in the backyard, food preparation becomes as much fun as eating what comes off the grill. We've assembled a few easy steps to help make your grilling party a success.
What kind of grill?
If you're having a large gathering, you might consider more than one grill to reduce wait times. Gas and electric grills are easy to use and fast-cooking. If you're using gas, be sure to have enough propane on hand; it's always a good idea to have an extra tank at the ready.
A charcoal or ceramic grill takes a little longer to get hot and requires more tending time, but the flavor is often worth it. If your gathering warrants it, have a friend with a portable charcoal grill bring it along. A separate grill for vegetarians is always a good idea.
If you have more time or are able to begin cooking a few hours before guests arrive, consider using a smoker. The flavor of food cooked this way is unbeatable and offers a real taste treat for your guests. For more information about choosing the right grill for you, click here. And for tips and tricks for perfectly grilled food, visit BigGreenEgg.com and FoodNetwork.com.
How much food?
Cookouts often turn into potlucks by default. With so many different palates to please, many people automatically bring their favorite meat, meatless burgers and veggies to throw on the grill so they can eat just what they want. It's important to have standby items, however. A good practice is to find out who intends to bring their own food and, depending on the size of the guest list, make sure you have packages of hot dogs, sausages, burgers and buns on hand.
When grilling meat, plan on serving up about 1/2 - 1 pound of beef or poultry per guest. If you are going with hotdogs or kebabs, plan on making up about 2-3 per guest.
What goes on a grilled hamburger or hotdog is as important as the meat or nonmeat itself, so don't skimp on the condiments. For convenience sake, you might consider ordering a platter with lettuce, onions, tomatoes and pickles from your grocer's deli. Also be sure to have plenty of ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise and barbecue sauce in stock. Green salad, potato salad and coleslaw all make great accompaniments to grilled fare, so consider having one or all three on the table.
For beverages, a bring-your-own-bottle policy is always a money-saver for you, and lets guests drink what they like. Be sure to have soft drinks and water on hand as well.
Beyond the grill
Gathering everyone in the backyard is a treat to be savored, so when the cooking is done, don't let anyone slip away. If you have a fire pit, fireplace or chiminea, gather your guests around for some marshmallow roasting. Battery-powered lanterns in the trees and strings of outdoor lights make great mood-setters for the after-dark part of your cookout.
Since the dawn of humanity, the open flame has drawn us like moths. No wonder everyone loves a cookout! With a little preparation and plenty of charcoal or propane, you'll be sure to throw a party your guests will long remember.