Grilling is the perfect way to soak up the sunshine with friends and family. Whether you're enjoying a casual family meal, hosting a garden party, or dining al fresco, knowing how to light your BBQ properly is essential for a safe and successful cookout. With the right technique, you'll make the most of those warm summer afternoons. Here’s a quick guide to lighting both gas and charcoal grills to help you get started.
1. Get Your Grill Ready
Start by giving your grill a quick clean. Get rid of any old ash or leftover food remnants. Then, grab your charcoal and create a small mound in the centre of the grill. This helps the coals light more evenly. If you have a chimney starter, load it up with charcoal and place it on the grill for even burning.
2. Time to Light the Charcoal
With lighter fluid: Spray a generous amount of lighter fluid over the charcoal, let it sit for about a minute to soak in, then light it up with a long match or grill lighter.
Quick note: Don’t add lighter fluid once the coals are already burning!
Without lighter fluid: If you're feeling a little more adventurous (and want to skip the chemicals), crumple up some newspaper and slide it underneath your coals. If using a chimney starter, simply light the newspaper, and watch as the chimney helps the coals burn evenly.
3. Let the Coals Get Ashy
Now, sit back and let the magic happen. Once your coals are lit, they’ll turn white or grey with ash. When they're glowing red and fully covered with ash, they’re at the perfect temperature for grilling!
4. Spread Those Coals Out
Once the coals are ready, use tongs or a grill tool to spread them across the bottom of the grill. For different heat zones (high heat for searing and low heat for slower cooking), push the coals to one side for high heat and leave the other side empty for a cooler cooking area.
1. Get Your Gas BBQ Ready
Start by giving your grill a quick clean, ensuring there’s no leftover food debris or grease. Next, check that your propane or natural gas tank is properly connected and has enough fuel. If your grill has multiple burners, make sure the knobs are in the off position before lighting.
2. Open the Lid
Before lighting, open the lid of your BBQ. This prevents gas from building up inside and ensures proper airflow when you ignite the burners.
3. Turn on the Gas
If you’re using a propane tank, make sure to slowly turn the valve on. Don’t open it all the way just yet, about a half turn is generally enough. If you're connected to natural gas, just ensure that the main gas valve is open.
4. Turn on the Burner
Many modern BBQs have an electronic ignition system that lights the burners automatically when you turn the knob. If your grill doesn’t have this, use a match or BBQ lighter to ignite the burners manually.
5. Wait for a Steady Flame
Once lit, let the burner flame settle, it should be consistent and steady. If using multiple burners, repeat the process for each one. Start by lighting the main burner, and then move on to the others if needed.
7. Adjust the Heat
Once all the burners are lit, it’s time to adjust your BBQ’s heat. You can turn the knobs to increase or decrease the flame depending on what you’re cooking.
8. Close the Lid
After lighting your BBQ and setting the desired heat level, close the lid to help maintain an even temperature.
Safety Tips
By following these simple steps, you’re all set to fire up the grill and enjoy a stress-free cookout. Whether you're using gas or charcoal, you’ve got the perfect setup for a mouthwatering meal. So, grab your tongs, fire up that BBQ, and let the good times (and even better food) begin. Happy grilling!
