Outdoor Grilling Essentials?

Outdoor Grilling Essentials?

Outdoor grilling is a beloved tradition that combines fresh air, delicious food, and great company. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or camping with friends, having the right tools and ingredients ensures a smooth experience. As an independent business owner who specializes in baking, I’m here to share a list of grilling favorites that pair perfectly with artisan baked goods—because even smoked meats and veggies taste better with fresh-out-of-the-oven carbs!

1. Essentials: Tools and Equipment

- Grill or smoker: charcoal, gas, or pellets—choose your weapon!

- Fuel: charcoal, propane, or wood chips for a smoky flavor.

- Utensils: tongs, spatula, grill brush, and kebab skewers.

- Heat-resistant gloves: protect your hands when flipping burgers or adjusting the grill.

- Meat thermometer: ensure perfectly cooked proteins every time.

Pro Tip: Grilled meats can be paired with sturdy bakery-style hamburger buns or artisan rolls from your local bakery.

2. Flavor Enhancers: Ingredients and Seasonings

- Protein: Burgers, sausage, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.

- Marinades and Seasonings: Boost flavor with herbs, spices, and citrus.

- Fresh Veggies: Corn, zucchini, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms are delicious grilled.

- Cheese and Toppings: Melted cheddar, avocado, caramelized onions, or pickles.

Baking Tip: Make your own toast by slicing sourdough or ciabatta bread, brushing it with olive oil, and grilling until crispy. Serve with dip or grilled veggies for an easy meal!

3. Don’t Forget the Sides (and Dessert!)

No barbecue is complete without the sides and desserts:

- Classics: Potato salad, coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob.

- The Star of the Bake: Serve pre-made garlic breadsticks, bruschetta, or flatbreads—perfect for soaking up sauces or as a base for grilled pizzas.

- Desserts: Skip the store-bought cookies and wow your guests with grilled fruit skewers drizzled with honey or a toasted marshmallow sandwich cookie kit with homemade graham crackers and chocolate chunks.

4. Secret weapon: convenient pre-made baked goods

Barbecuing is all about enjoying the moment, not worrying about preparation. Keep the following in your freezer:

- Pre-made dough: Our frozen pizza dough or cinnamon rolls are ready to bake for a fun twist.

- Dessert jars: Layer brownie chunks, berries and whipped cream in glass jars for an easy dessert.

- Portable bread: Baguettes, naan or brioche bread are easy to take on the go and add sparkle to any meal.

Final tip: Keep it simple and enjoy!

The magic of grilling is in quality ingredients and simple cooking methods. Let your baked goods take care of the carbs while you focus on mastering your grilling skills.