Grilling

Chicken Yakitori

Makes 8 portions Chicken Skewers Ingredients 1 lb chicken livers, cut into 3/4-in pieces 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3/4-in pieces 8 scallions, cut into 3/4-in pieces Yakitori Sauce Ingredients 3/4 cup sake 1 cup mirin 1/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce 1/2 cup light […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Grill

You don’t need added fuels for cooking on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a slow cooker, of course, but fuel is necessary for grilling, barbecuing, or for spit-roasting over a flame. Some smokers and barbecue pits supply heat to the chamber using electricity or gas, with the smoke […]

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 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 Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Four Rules of Summer Party Prep

Summertime means party time! And for all of the fun of an outdoor party, we know there’s also a lot of work. If the stress of organizing a get-together is keeping you from hosting this year, take a look at our Four Rules of Summer Party Prep. Like most food […]

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 […]