Using the Grill for the First Time this Season – Grill Opening Tips
You safely tucked your grill away last Fall to keep it safe from the harsh winter weather. But what should you do with that equipment when spring arrives and you’re ready to use it again? Well, that can depend on a number of things.
Fall cleanup can be a busy time. If you didn’t clean your grill thoroughly before putting it away, you should certainly do so now. And there are a few things you’ll want to do before you use a new grill as well. Here is what you need to know about using your grill for the first time this season.
Using Your Grill for the First Time This Season – Grill Opening Tips
Whether you have a charcoal grill or a gas grill, it is important to keep it clean. Food tastes better when prepared on a clean grill. Clean grills are also safer and last longer. Provided your grill needs some attention this spring, here are some of the steps you can take to get it ready for the warm weather and grilling season.
1. Remove Ash from the Grill
Removing any ash from the base of your grill should be the first item on your list. To begin, take out and set aside the lower and upper grills. You can use a small shovel to remove the ash and get the remainder with a wet paper towel. Make sure you dispose of any ash in a metal container.
2. Heat Up the Grill
Now it’s time to clean the grates. This is easier when they’re hot. Heat up your grill for about 20-30 minutes on high. Keep your hands safe with heat-resistant gloves. Then, use a wire brush to scrub the grates, removing grease and debris.
Once all of the dirt and grime have been removed from the grates, turn off the grill and let it cool. You can finish by wiping the grill down with warm soapy water and then drying the area thoroughly to prevent rust.
3. Oil the Grates
You can protect the grates on your grill by seasoning them. While the grill is hot (you may have to heat it up again), coat the grill with food-safe oil. If you repeat this process after each use of the grill, it won’t have as much dirt buildup.
4. Clean the Burner Tubes
If your grill is gas-powered, it’s also important to clean the burner tubes with a nylon or steel brush. Begin at the center and move outwards in a circular motion. This ensures any dirt is moved away from the burner holes.
5. Clean the Grill Sides & Sheets
Next clean the sides and grill sheets with warm soapy water. Make sure you wipe off any soap thoroughly so that it doesn’t contaminate your food. And dry moisture to prevent rust.
6. Check Your Fuel
Finally, check that you have sufficient fuel to start the season. It would be a shame to do all that work cleaning your grill and not have what you need on hand to cook that first delicious meal.
How to Season a Brand New Grill Before Using It
Before you use your grill for the first time, it’s a good idea to season it. Many factories put a coating on the grill that protects it during shipping. You don’t want that stuff on your food. Here are the steps you can follow to get this done and have you cooking in no time:
- If it’s a gas grill, ensure the hose and regulator are tightened properly with no leaks.
- Remove the grill pieces and scrub them well with warm water, a small amount of dishwashing liquid, and a soft brush.
- Rinse with warm or hot water and dry with a cloth.
- Replace the grill pieces on the grill.
- Pre-heat your grill for 30 minutes with the burners on high and the hood open to burn off any protective coating.
- If the grill pieces/hot plates are cast iron, turn off the burners and lightly coat the top side with cooking spray or canola oil (no olive oil, margarine, or butter) and rub it in with a paper towel.
- Heat the grill for another 30 minutes, and then let it cool.
Let Nick’s of Calvert Help You Elevate Your Grilling Experience
Now that you know how to get your grill in tip-top shape, you’re probably ready to stock up on some delicious food to cook on the grill. Nick’s of Calvert can help. As your hometown grocer, we offer a full-service meat counter, which is the centerpiece of our store.
Nick’s takes pride in providing the freshest meats at the lowest prices. We sell only the highest caliber beef, chicken, pork, and seafood. Choose from choice daily cut and trimmed steaks our one of our gourmet entrees prepared each day. Contact us or visit our store today to get assistance from one of our highly trained butchers.