Chef's Notes Plus

Choosing Wood for your Grill or Smoker

Smoke is a key component that contributes to the flavor and texture of barbecued meat. Smoke comes from burning wood, either by placing it directly on the coals of a charcoal grill, or in a separate box or chamber in a gas grill or smoker. There is a learning curve […]

Pantry, Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Classic Barbecue Sauce

Makes 3 cups sauce This is a classic mild, sweet-style barbecue sauce with a very slight acidity that gives the flavor balance. It is a good, thick, general-use, red barbecue sauce that works well with chicken, beef, and pork. Ingredients 2 tablespoons corn oil 1/2 cup minced onion 2 cups […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Compound Butters

Lime Chili Butter, Scallion Butter, and Roasted Garlic Butter are three of our favorite compound butters, which can be used to top grilled meats and vegetables, as a toasted sandwich spread, or as an accompaniment on a brunch table. Create your own variations, adding spices, minced chiles, smoked salt, or […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Compound Butters for Easy Summer Dinners

As grilling season heats up, you may be looking for ways to add flavor to your grilled meats and veggies. Marinades offer endless options, but they require time, which is not always on our side. For a quick and simple addition to your grilling toolbox, consider compound butters. Prepared ahead […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Cooking Temperatures of Meat, Poultry, and Fish

“Is it done?” The eternal question that is not always easy to answer. Use this handy reference chart for deciding when your meat, poultry, or fish is ready to enjoy. Remove your food from the oven, grill, or pan when it’s still a few degrees below your desired temperature to […]

Chef's Blog

Elevate Your BBQ with Homemade Condiments

Ready for summer?  It’s time to get grilling! While hamburgers, hot dogs and other BBQ favorites tend to get the glory, they’re made even better by their flavor-enhancing counterpart: condiments. DIYing your condiments at home couldn’t be easier. We’ve got some simple, make at home condiment recipes for you to try.  Uplevel Your BBQ, Reduce Your […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Grill Anything (Yes, Even Pasta!)

By the end of this summer, I will be able to write a book on how to cook exclusively outside. As I’ve mentioned, probably too often, I live in Texas, where it is currently HOT. My house is small, but tragically under-cooled in the summer, so when I turn on […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Grilled Artichokes with Romesco Sauce

Makes 5 portions If you’ve never grilled an artichoke, prepare to be hooked. Their unmistakable flavor and creamy flesh is made all the more crave-worthy when slightly charred. It is the ideal accompaniment to savory romesco sauce, but you’ll enjoy it drizzled with tahini, garlic aioli, or even just a […]

Salads

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Makes 8 servings Caesar salad dressing often contains egg yolk and is blended to make a creamy, emulsified dressing. That’s amazing, but this is easy and delicious, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Substitute the grilled chicken for shrimp or salmon, if you like, or even shredded rotisserie […]

Grilling

Grilled Halibut With Roasted Red & Yellow Pepper Salad

Makes 8 servings Ingredients 2 red bell peppers, or 1 cup of prepared roasted peppers 2 yellow bell peppers, or 1 cup of prepared roasted peppers 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 onion, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons garlic, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons capers, chopped 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar 1/2 teaspoon ground […]