Get Ready to Switch Up Your Grilling Game this Labor Day

As the summer comes to an end, Labor Day barbecues are on the horizon. It’s time to break out the grill and fire it up. If you’re an American, there’s a good chance your menu will consist of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, brats, and spare ribs. But have you ever considered grilling something beyond the usual suspects? With inspiration from around the world, you can take your grilling game to the next level.

Explore International Flavors

While grilling traditions vary from one culture to another, there are some amazing international options to choose from. For example, if you want to try something unique from Japan, you can grill rice balls and create a delectable snack. Similarly, in India, grilled pineapple is a popular treat that can be included in your dessert menu.

However, if you are an adventurous griller and want to impress your guests, take inspiration from Vietnamese cuisine and grill up some snake. The Vietnamese consider snake a delicacy and, when prepared correctly, can be incredibly flavorful. While this option might not be for everyone, it is worth trying if you love to experiment with your grill.

Grilling Around the World

So, what do other countries grill when they fire up their barbecues? An infographic available on Lifehack shows a wide range of options. For example, Argentinians prefer to cook up some Asado, or slow-grilled beef ribs that are marinated in a mix of garlic, salt, and parsley. Brazilians, on the other hand, opt for Churrasco, a selection of meats that are grilled over an open flame and served with a variety of sauces and sides.

In France, grilled scallops and oysters are a popular choice, whereas in South Africa, they cook up Boerewors, a type of sausage made from beef, pork, and lamb, seasoned with coriander, cloves, and nutmeg. In Thailand, grilled fish is a staple, and they serve it with a spicy dipping sauce made of fish sauce, lime, chili, and sugar.

Of course, the list doesn’t end here. There are countless other options, all as delicious as they are diverse. Grilling traditions vary throughout the world, but one thing is certain: there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

Tips for Grilling Success

Regardless of what you choose to grill this Labor Day, there are some common tips that can help you achieve the perfect smoky flavor and tender texture you’re after. Here are a few to keep in mind:

1. Get the Right Heat: Every type of meat has its ideal cooking temperature. It’s essential to make sure your grill is heated up to the right level before placing your meat on it. To ensure your meat is cooked to perfection, consider investing in a meat thermometer.

2. Marinate: Marinating your meat in advance can help it absorb flavors and become more tender. You can use store-bought marinades or create your own by mixing herbs, spices, and oils.

3. Don’t Flip Too Soon: Let your meat cook for a few minutes before flipping it over. If you flip too soon, you risk it sticking to the grill or falling apart.

4. Keep it Moist: Grilling can dry out meat quickly, so it’s essential to keep it moist. You can do this by basting your meat with butter or oil or by using a spray bottle filled with water.

5. Let it Rest: After you remove your meat from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes. This will prevent juices from running out and make it more flavorful and tender.

Final Thoughts

Labor Day is the perfect time to fire up your grill and try something new and exciting. Whether you choose to explore exotic international flavors or stick to your traditional favorites, these tips will help you achieve grilling success. So, get ready to impress your guests with your grilling skills, and have a memorable Labor Day celebration.