Making Grilling Season Memorable with FARM
Since the warm summer weather is around the corner, it will be time to fire up your grills. Here’s Chef Daniel Orr’s grilling tips.
Charcoal
When using a charcoal barbecue, always use more charcoal than you anticipate using. Nothing is worse than not having enough heat to properly sear your meal. When there is an even layer of white ash surrounding the coal, it means that there is not any black coal left unburned or excessive red-hot burn. Also, avoid packing the grill too full. Like all living things, fires must be able to breathe to avoid becoming exhausted and falling asleep. Last but not least, put an open bottle of wine or beer on the grill so you may pour some on the fire in case it starts to burn. In addition to controlling the flames, it adds flavor.
Gas
Before cooking, preheat the grill for at least ten to fifteen minutes while it is covered. This will keep things from sticking and give you great grill marks and flavor.
Effective Grilling
Always set up the heat so that there is a hot side and a warm side, whether you are using gas or charcoal. When using charcoal, most of the coals will be moved to one side. Gas grillers only need to raise one side. In this manner, you can "mark" food on the hot side and cover it to slowly cook it on the warm side. This enhances flavor, keeps food from burning, and lets it absorb more smokey flavor. To ensure that everything is ready at once, always begin grilling the largest and longest-cooking items first, then move them to the heated side of the grill to finish.
Grilling Guidelines
Turkey and chicken: 160 to 165 degrees
Veal and pork: 135 to 145 degrees
Duck, lamb, and beef: rare at 115–125 degrees, medium rare at 125–130 degrees, and medium at 135–145 degrees. It is a waste of time to do anything else.
Fish: Generally speaking, the temperatures can be the same as for beef, but good tuna only needs to be seared on all sides.
Looking for the perfect spot to host your next team gathering or enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in Bloomington? FARM Restaurant is the place to be this season! Celebrate spring with fresh, locally inspired dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Reserve your table today at farm-bloomington.com, call us at (812) 323-0002, or book through the OpenTable App. Don’t wait—tables fill up quickly this time of year!