Friday, May 24, 2019

Beverage Marketing for Millennials and the Rise of Augmented Reality

7 Cocktail Books You Need for Your Home Bar

Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktail book

Unless you’re imbibing at happy hour or drowning your sorrows at the local dive, finding a cocktail for less than a Hamilton has become a virtual unicorn. Then, of course, there’s the exorbitant moustache wax and suspenders tax that’s levied for the privilege of being jammed into a so-trendy-it-hurts “speakeasy.” A hangover is painful enough; there’s no need to further the suffering by waking up to an empty wallet. Well, here’s a simple remedy: Mix things up at home. Thanks to the help of these trusty cocktail guides, you can learn the skills to prepare high quality libations without having to leave the house.

“Meehan’s Bartender Manual” by Jim Meehan, $22.35 on Amazon

Meehan's Bartender Manual

Amazon

Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or experienced mixologist, Jim Meehan’s James Beard Award winning guide to all things booze is a must-own, covering everything from recipes, types of glassware, and assorted tricks of the trade. “Meehan’s Bartender’s Manual” offers a glimpse into the mind of the celebrated Gramercy Tavern and Pegu Club vet along with additional insight into what it takes to be your best behind the bar from over 50 of his colleagues.Buy Now

“The Ultimate Bar Book: The Comprehensive Guide to Over 1,000 Cocktails” by Mittie Hellmich, $12.94 on Amazon

The Ultimate Bar Book

Amazon

A veritable Encyclopedia Bar-tanica, “The Ultimate Bar Book” certainly lives up to its name. Whether you’re in need in of a recipe for a cocktail classic or a deep cut libation, Millie Hellmich’s essential compendium has got you covered. There’s even a section for hangover remedies which are sure to come in handy if you plan to take full advantage of this expansive guide.Buy Now

“Batch Cocktails: Make-Ahead Pitcher Drinks for Every Occasion” by Maggie Hoffman, $13.51 on Amazon

Batch Cocktails book

Amazon

If you’re planning on hosting a get-together, be it a boozy brunch, casual shindig, or an Ina Garten-approved Hamptons soiree, this book will be a life saver. “Batch Cocktails” includes 65 recipes for large-format, make-ahead mixed drinks (including non-alcoholic options) that are sure to satisfy your guests and, more importantly, save you plenty of time behind the bar.Buy Now

“Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails” by Shannon Mustipher, $19.46 on Amazon

Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktail book

Amazon

Rum expert Shannon Mustipher is helping usher in a new generation of Traders and Beachcombers with his refreshing take on tiki drinks. Moving beyond popular classics like the Zombie and Pain Killer, Mustipher offers an easy-to-follow guide to preparing unfamiliar—though instantly unforgettable—tropical libations with an emphasis on high quality ingredients.Buy Now

“Liquid Intelligence: The Art and Science of the Perfect Cocktail” by Dave Arnold, $23.79 on Amazon

Liquid Intelligence cocktail book

Amazon

Dave Arnold, the maverick mixologist behind New York City bar sensations Existing Conditions and Booker & Dax, breaks down the components of the “perfect cocktail,” examining not just what is used but why. Arnold’s culinary expertise comes in handy as he delves into the complexities of something as seemingly basic as ice along with the science of some of the more advanced techniques utilized in new wave cocktail preparation.Buy Now

“The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” by Frank Caiafa, $13.74 on Amazon

The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book

Amazon

Old-timey cocktails continue to be all the rage and this collection of recipes culled from the archives of New York’s famed Waldorf Astoria hotel hearkens back to those legendary pre-Prohibition days. From swizzles and shrubs, absinthe cocktails to whiskey and tansy (prepared with the leaves of the toxic flower), “The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” takes readers on a nostalgic trip back a century, shining a light on throwback adult beverages that go beyond the martini and Manhattan.Buy Now

“Imbibe!” by David Wondrich, $19.95 on Amazon

Imbibe! book

Amazon

Chronicling the utterly fascinating and equally bizarre life of trailblazing 19th century bartender Jerry Thomas, David Wondrich offers the perfect blend of cocktail history and recipes. If you have a thirst for knowledge when it comes to the roots of our modern cocktail culture “Imbibe!” offers a thorough education.Buy Now

All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.



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Gifts for the Coffee-Loving Dads in Your Life

Some dads love their coffee almost as much as their children. Whether they’re sipping a morning latte or evening espresso, these guys are never without a cup of joe. In honor of Father’s Day, we pulled together some gifts that appeal to coffee-loving dads everywhere. Whether it’s a high-tech gadget or a pun-filled mug, these items are sure to please the pickiest drinkers of them all.

Bourbon Infused Coffee, $20 at Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods

Here’s the perfect gift for the dad who is equally obsessed with booze as they are with coffee. These beans are infused with bourbon so you can have a taste of Kentucky’s best spirit alongside your breakfast.Buy Now

Zulay Milk Frother, $14.99 on Amazon

milk frother

Amazon

With this handy milk frother, dad can create the lattes of his dreams. This comes with a lifetime warranty, which your dad is also sure to approve of.Buy Now

Dad Joke Coffee Mug, $15.95 on Amazon

Amazon

If your dad is running low on jokes, this mug is here to supply him with a lifetime of cheesy puns, including this classic: Why did the coffee file a police report? It got mugged! Just pretend to laugh the next time you pour him a cup.Buy Now

Drift Away Coffee Subscription (price and plans vary)

Driftaway Coffee subscription

Amazon

There are a lot of coffee subscription services on the market,  but what we appreciate about Drift Away is that it provides customized orders based on your taste preferences. It’s the perfect way to ensure dad gets his favorite roast without doing any guesswork.Buy Now

Steampunk Coffee Grinder, $65 at Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods

This old-timey coffee grinder is the perfect way for dad to crank up his morning routine; highly recommended for steampunk obsessives everywhere.Buy Now

Coffee Bell, $7.98 on Amazon

Amazon

Depending on your living situation, this could make for a dangerous present. After all, gifting dad a bell that explicitly says “ring for coffee” means he will definitely take advantage of that offer. Better get used to a lot of ding-ding-dinging!Buy Now

French Press Coffee Maker, $25 on Amazon

Amazon

This shiny, stainless steel French press is a great way to make a strong morning brew and a great entry level model if you think dad’s likely to go back to his cheap drip coffee maker at some point.Buy Now

Espresso Poster, $24 at Pop Chart Lab

Pop Chart Lab

This poster is not only aesthetically pleasing, but incredibly practical. It features loads of recipes and ratios for all your favorite coffee drinks. Dad will never forget the difference between an Americano and a flat white again when this work of art is hanging in his office.Buy Now

Mug Warmer, $18.99 on Amazon

Amazon

Dad can keep his coffee nice and hot, instead of gross and lukewarm, with this hot plate. Now he can continue to sip at a long and leisurely pace without fear of the temperature dropping at all.Buy Now

Coffee Puzzle, $17.94 on Amazon

Amazon

With 1,000 pieces, this jigsaw puzzle will keep dad busy for days. While he attempts to put it together, he’ll also probably regale you with stories about coffee companies that no longer exist. Those were the good old days.Buy Now

Mini Espresso Maker, $40.49 on Amazon

mini espresso maker

Amazon

This mini espresso maker is a portable gift from the gods. Now dad can never go without a well-needed shot of caffeine to help him through the day.Buy Now

Thirsty for more? Check out 12 Coffee Products You Never Knew You Needed, and see CNET’s Best Coffee Grinders.

All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.



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How to Cook Bacon While Camping

7 Fast and Easy Grilled Vegetable Sides

Grilled Padron Peppers recipe

Beans, coleslaw, and potato salad are the champions of the barbecue side dish world. But if you already have your grill a-blazin’, why not use it to turn out some charred, flavorful vegetable sides too? Half the work will be done for you flavor-wise thanks to the magic of the open flame, so you can stick to basic seasonings like a few herbs or a crumble of feta. These recipes are fast, easy, and can hold their own next to any grilled beef, pork, lamb, or chicken dish.

Of course, grilled veggies can also form the satisfying main course for a vegetarian BBQ (or sidle up to veggie burgers). Basically, these are easy recipes that everyone at your next backyard barbecue will love.

So get some general grilling tips if you’re not already a certified pro, check out our grilling recipes for ideas on what to pair with your sides, and take your pick of the grilled vegetables below.

Oh, and don’t forget about grilled dessert.

1. Grilled Corn with Soy Sauce and Mirin

Grilled Corn with Soy and Mirin

Chowhound

Grilled corn on the cob is classic, but switch it up a bit with soy and mirin instead of plain old butter and salt. These flavors pair really well with ribs, especially if they have an Asian-inspired sauce on them, but even regular old BBQ sauce will be in harmony. Get our Grilled Corn with Soy Sauce and Mirin recipe.

2. Grilled Padrón Peppers

Grilled Padron Peppers recipe

Chowhound

Eating Spanish padrón peppers is a game of chance: while most of the peppers are fairly mild and sweet, some are super spicy—but you won’t know which ones until you bite into them. The smoky layer of flavor they get from the grill is delicious either way. Get our Grilled Padrón Peppers recipe. (And try our Grilled Shishito Peppers recipe too.)

3. Grilled Eggplant and Red Pepper with Israeli Couscous

Grilled Eggplant and Red Pepper Israeli Couscous Salad recipe

Chowhound

Pleasantly chewy Israeli couscous plus sweet, tender, charred pieces of pepper and eggplant, and a dressing with tahini and garlic adds up to a delicious side salad you could happily eat on its own for lunch (but pairs wonderfully with Oregano Grilled Chicken or Lamb Kebabs). Get our Grilled Eggplant and Red Pepper with Israeli Couscous recipe.

4. Grilled Summer Squash with Feta and Mint

Grilled Summer Squash with Feta and Mint

Chowhound

Blistered summer squash perked up with salty feta and herbal mint is a simple yet stunning combo. A little olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper is all the dressing it needs. Get our Grilled Summer Squash with Feta and Mint recipe. (For a sweeter spin, try our Grilled Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad recipe too.)

5. Grilled Greek Salad

Grilled Greek Salad with Halloumi

Chowhound

You needn’t stick to the usual vegetable suspects when it comes to the grill; try grilling romaine too. It’s great as the base of a smoky salad, like this deconstructed Greek salad on a stick (well, everything but the lettuce is on a stick, including the grilled halloumi cheese). Get our Grilled Greek Salad recipe.

6. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Sour Cream and Lime

grilled sweet potato recipe

Chowhound

Smoky grilled sweet potato wedges are a fresh alternative to fries, perfect for all your backyard burgers (and good with grilled fish too, especially salmon). The lime and cilantro-spiked sour cream is a fabulous dipping sauce, but try these with curried ketchup, tzatziki, or whatever goes best with your main course flavors. Get our Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Sour Cream and Lime recipe.

7. Grilled Okra

Grilled Okra recipe

Chowhound

You may think you don’t like okra, but we suggest trying it grilled before passing final judgment. The smoky char lends delicious flavor, naturally, but the quick, high-heat cooking method also means there’s no slimy texture—just crisp-tender green veg, with a lemony basil dipping sauce on the side (but you could also toss the okra in a little Cajun seasoning instead). Get our Grilled Okra recipe.

See our Ultimate Guide to Grilling & BBQ for more recipes, tips, and tricks.



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Chowhound Recommends: Best BBQ Sauces

Primal Kitchen keto paleo Whole30 BBQ sauce

Welcome to Chowhound Recommends, Chowhound’s weekly series where our staff shares our favorite food items around a central theme. We kicked off grilling season May 13 with BBQ Week, and we know lots of people are dusting off their grills for the first time this Memorial Day weekend. So this week we’re rounding up our favorite BBQ sauces to accompany whatever you’ve got on the grill.

As food writers, editors, producers, and social media managers, we’re constantly scouring the market for the latest and greatest products. And when we find a product we love, we want to shout it from the rooftops! We’re packaging up our weekly finds and sharing them with you, because we think you’ll love them too. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @Chowhound to catch us talking about our favorite products every week.

Lauren Zaser, Social Media Manager

Product Pick: Tessemae’s BBQ Sauce

Tessamae's BBQ sauce keto BBQ sauce

Amazon

I’m always on the hunt for things with no added sugar, and that can be hard when it comes to sugary sweet BBQ sauces. Thankfully this one from Tessemae’s hits all the right spots. It’s free of added sugars, as well as dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan. So it works for anyone doing keto or Whole30 diets. Don’t worry! You still get the sweetness you love from BBQ sauces because they use dates. I’m so excited to put this on ribs all summer long.

Tessemae's Matty's Organic BBQ Sauce 2-Pack, $19.95 on Amazon

Buy Now

Guillermo Riveros, Senior Video Producer

Product Pick: Elvio’s Chimichurri

Elvio's Chimichurri sauce

Amazon

This week I’m giving you a twofer: a rub and a sauce! Instead of going with the tried-and-true American BBQ-style sauces and spice rubs, try some South American flavors. These are a chimichurri rub and sauce from Elvio’s, an Argentinian family-owned and run business. They make this gem of a sauce, based on their grandfather’s original recipe. The family moved their operation from Buenos Aires to start the business in Los Angeles, and ended up launching the product in Brooklyn. Talk about good sauce travels far! If you’ve never tried it before, chimi packs herbal and acidic flavors with a kick, combining parsley, red pepper, and garlic. And much like American BBQ sauce it goes well with all meats, and is great beyond the grill.

Elvio's Chimichurri Gaucho Style Chimichurri Sauce 3-Pack, $30 on Amazon

Buy Now

Nathan Carpenter, Associate Video Producer

Product Pick: Traina Foods BBQ Sauce

Traina sun-dried apricot BBQ Sauce

Amazon

I love pretty much all barbecue sauce, but what’s really cool about Traina is that their sauces all incorporate sun-dried fruits into their recipes. I’m recommending the tangy sun-dried apricot flavor because it’s delicious, but I also love their sun-dried plum version as well for a bit of a spicy-smoky kick. Put this stuff on pretty much anything you grill and it’s guaranteed to be delicious!

Traina Home Grown Sun Dried Apricot Barbecue Sauce, $8.50 on Amazon

Buy Now

Kristin Cassidy, Director of Special Projects

Product Pick: Primal Kitchen BBQ Sauce

best keto BBQ sauce you can buy

Primal Kitchen

Like Lauren, I’m always looking for products that contain no added sugars—and let’s be real, most BBQ sauces are basically syrup. That’s why I love Primal Kitchen’s line of BBQ sauces—they’re unsweetened, USDA organic, gluten-free, and soy-free, which also makes them Whole30, paleo, and keto-compliant. Since I save on sugar by using an unsweetened sauce, I have no qualms eating a sugary dessert like these no-bake cookies.

Primal Kitchen 3 Pack Organic and Unsweetened BBQ & Steak Sauce, $20.83 on Amazon

Buy Now

All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.



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11 Must-Have Snacks for Your Next Road Trip

So you’ve decided to hop on the road and explore the wonders of ‘Murica by car. Great! Like your vehicle, you’re going to need lots of fuel (in the form of food, of course) to get you from place to place. Since we’re pretty much the Stephen Hawking of snacks here at Chowhound, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite energy-boosting, healthy, and easily transportable nibbles to set you on the right path when it comes to mindful eating. In fact, you can kick those fast food and convenience store pit stops to the curb if you prep and buy the following products in advance. Bon voyage!

Buddha Bowl Popcorn with Coconut Oil, (pack of 12), 33.74 on Amazon

Amazon

Popcorn is binge-friendly and it’s inevitable that you’ll finish an entire bag. Feel less guilty with this health-conscious brand that cooks kernels in coconut oil and seasons with Himalayan salt. We’re actually pretty sure that Buddha would have approved.Buy Now

Biena Ranch Chickpea Snacks, $6.58 on Amazon

Amazon

Since hummus spoils, snack on the next best thing: roasted chickpeas. These baked delights will remind you of Cooler Ranch Doritos, which is obviously never a bad thing.Buy Now

Mary’s Gone Crackers Pretzels (pack of 2), $17.97

Amazon

Dipped in hummus, soft cheese or on there own, you’ll love noshing on these crunchy, whole grain gluten-free crackers that taste almost burnt, but in a good way.Buy Now

Stevia-Sweetened Lily’s Dark Chocolate with Almonds (pack of 12), $51.99 on Amazon

Amazon

Chocolate is necessary in any situation, but it’s absolutely mandatory during a summer road trip. The only remedy to arguments about radio control and backseat driving is chocolate. It’s a proven fact.Buy Now

Duke’s Hot and Spicy Smoked Sausages, $5.48 at Walmart

Amazon

It’s human nature to have random cravings for meat, but too much fast food and sugar-laden jerkies can take a heavy toll on your body. These flavorful tiny sausages are the perfect alternative to Quarter Pounders. In fact, we eat these almost every single day.Buy Now

Seapoint Farms Dry-Roasted Spicy Wasabi Edamame (pack of 12), $13.16 on Amazon

Amazon

Scared of dozing off behind the wheel? Grab a handful of these wasabi-coated soybeans for an instant energy jolt. You may want to be in park, though. They surely pack a punch!Buy Now

Nuttzo Mixed Nut Butter, $16.19 on Amazon

Amazon

You don’t need to be paleo to enjoy your new favorite nut blend butter. Cashews, almonds, brazil nuts…it looks like Julie Andrews’ “Favorite Things” is going to need a modernized update.Buy Now

Rhythm Zesty Nacho Kale Chips (pack of 4), $18.12 on Amazon

Amazon

It’s no Chalupa Supreme, but this nacho cheese kale chip variety may curb your desire to head to Taco Bell (which will also save you a trip to the bathroom. A true win-win.)Buy Now

That’s It Apple-Strawberry Bar, (pack of 12), $14.99 on Amazon

Amazon

This isn’t going to come close to a real apple or pint of fresh strawberries, but it will surely satisfy a craving for fruit. Plus, you get the added benefits of fiber and immunity-supporting vitamin C. Yay to good health.Buy Now

 Quest Protein Crisps, (pack of 8), $19.20 on Walmart

Amazon

These may be bland in taste, but protein is essential when it comes to daytime snacking. And wouldn’t you rather crunch into something than drink a boring protein shake? It’s all about convenience.Buy Now

Rind Superfruit Snacks (pack of 3), 17.09 on Amazon

Amazon

Finally, these all-natural superfruit chews are made from some of our favorites fruits and they don’t waste the rind (hence the name), where you find a lot of that extra nutrient. Perfect to get that glucose up without a lot of cruddy refined or bleached sugar.Buy Now

All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.



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Beat the Summer Heat with These No-Bake Cookie Recipes

15 Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Side Dish Recipes

19 Memorial Day Hacks from Your Favorite Famous Chefs

grilled country pork ribs

Memorial Day is almost upon us, which means it’s time to start thinking about firing up the grill for the first official cookout of summer. These tips and tricks from some of the nation’s top chefs will save you time and effort, so you can actually enjoy your backyard bash!

1. Crank up the grill.

Preheating the grill is critical to achieving that smoky, savory sear on big chunks of meat. “Always make sure the fire is hot. For gas grills, turn it on about 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook. If you’re using charcoal, light it about 45 minutes ahead of time to let the coals burn down,” says Vanderlei Melchior, head gaucho chef for the upscale Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão.

Related Reading: The Best Gas Grills for 2019

best grills, grilling tools and accessories

grandriver/E+ Collection/Getty Images

2. Hack your cooler.

“Don’t forget that your cooler can double as an insulated ‘warmer.’ Use it to keep things warm in transit to a cookout,” says Sunny Anderson, celebrity chef, cookbook author, and co-host of “The Kitchen” on Food Network.

Related Reading: CNET’s Picks for the Best Coolers for Summer

3. Form the perfect burger.

If you’re going to serve hamburgers (because let’s face it, they’re pretty much the quintessential Memorial Day grub!), make sure you do it right. “It’s important to know how to choose the right burger for grilling. It should be at least 80/20 lean to fat ratio ground chuck. Too much fat can cause it to shrink,” says Jon Lemon, Bareburger culinary director. “Form into 6-oz. patties and press a ½ inch dimple into the middle of the patty so it keeps its form.”

4. Invest in a meat thermometer.

Using a meat thermometer to ensure your cuts are perfectly cooked doesn’t make you less of a grill master. “Purchase a digital thermometer. You’ll be more confident when grilling and won’t waste any money on over- or under-cooked protein,” says Geoffrey Zakarian, chef and partner of Point Royal at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Fla.

Thermapen Mk4, $99 at ThermoWorks

This digital model is beloved by chefs and home cooks alike.
Buy Now

5. Spray your meat.

That’s right—filling a spray bottle with marinade or loose barbecue sauce is an easy and mess-free way to glaze your meat more evenly, says Michael Schulson, founder and CEO of Schulson Collective restaurant group.

6. Elevate the classics.

There’s nothing wrong with a plain ol’ hot dog with mustard—but putting a new twist on Memorial Day favorites is sure to wow your guests. “Adding unexpected flavors and ingredients always impresses and kicks a dish up a notch,” says Ayesha Curry, chef and cookbook author.

7. Grill in sessions.

“To spend as much time with your guests as you can, get some veggies on the grill before they arrive. I love making grilled veggie salads, which you can build with seasonal ingredients such as corn or zucchini and prepare ahead of time,” says Ryan Farr of San Francisco’s 4505 Burgers and BBQ, named “Hottest Barbecue Joint in America” by Zagat.

8. Let your protein rest.

“One of the top mistakes when grilling any meat or fish is not letting it come to room temperature before starting. This ensures more even cooking and the juiciest results—just don’t leave it out longer than two hours,” says Anderson.

Related Reading: The Best Grilling & BBQ Cookbooks to Buy This Summer

9. Opt for sliders.

Grilling up miniature sliders instead of regular-sized burgers will allow you and your guests to sample all your summery mains and sides. “Sliders are so great because there are simple and easy options you can throw together. For a break from beef, buy a pre-roasted rotisserie chicken, pull apart the meat, toss it with barbecue sauce, and top it with coleslaw or jalapeños,” says Beau Houck, executive chef of Noi Due Carne on New York City’s Upper West Side.

10. Make a shopping list.

Look at your recipes beforehand and shop according to the exact amounts you’ll need—this will prevent you from wasting money and food by overbuying. “Buying pre-packaged perishable items often leads to extra ingredients that wind up going to waste because they don’t keep,” says Stephanie Izard, a Food Network Iron Chef, founder of several Chicago area restaurants, and spokesperson for Morton Salt’s Erase Food Waste campaign.

Related Reading: The Best Grocery Delivery Apps & Services

11. Make a batch of drinks.

Mixing a cocktail or sangria in bulk is a little more fun than a cooler full of beer or wine. “Batching cocktails allows you to spend more time entertaining your guests, but it’s very important to know your proportions before mixing everything together,” says Mo Ghanem, brand manager for the tequila brand Riazul. Multiply the amounts for one drink by the number of guests you expect.

grilled summer sangria recipe

Chowhound’s Grilled Sangria recipe

12. Keep the kids happy.

“Create a play area where the little ones can all hang out. Fill it with crafts, toys, and games so they have a dedicated area, just for them,” says Curry. “This is always my go-to so the adults can mingle.”

13. “Grease” the grill with an onion.

That’s right—rubbing half an onion down the length of the grill will prevent meat from sticking, says Adrian Davila of Davila’s BBQ in Seguin, Texas and third-generation pitmaster.

14. Utilize skewers.

Stacking protein and veggies on skewers makes for a fun presentation and easy way to serve a variety of flavors—plus, you don’t have to worry about smaller cuts of meat or vegetables falling through the grill grate. “My Jerk Rubbed Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa is great as a side dish or main, and it comes together so quickly,” says Curry.

BearMoo Kabob Skewers, set of 10 for $18.99 on Amazon

Way better than the wooden skewers you inevitably forget to soak ahead of time.
Buy Now

15. Have vegetarian options.

Don’t forget about your herbivore guests! Be sure to have side dishes or mains that are meat-free. For something besides veggie or pasta salads, Houck suggests grilling up a hearty olive oil-brushed bread and serving with a nice cheese (such as burrata or fresh mozzarella), tomatoes, and fresh basil. Or you can grill pizza.

Sale Alert: Sur la Table’s Marked Down Their Pizza Grill (Plus Lots More BBQ & Grilling Accessories)

16. Do dessert on the grill.

As long as it’s fired up, grill seasonal fruits for an easy dessert. “Pears, peaches, and seasonal fruits actually sweeten up once grilled—just add ice cream!” says Anderson.

17. Safety first!

“Place your grill at least 15 feet away from your house and always have a fire extinguisher on hand,” says Anderson.

18. Pay attention to marbling.

If you want a premium cut of meat, look for consistent marbling, red color, and don’t be afraid to ask your grocery store’s butcher for advice,” says Davila.

Related Reading: The Best Meat Delivery & Butcher Subscription Services

bet grilling BBQ cookbooks

Huw Jones / Photolibrary / Getty Images Plus

19. Hack your skewers.

To keep your kebabs from rolling and flipping all over the grill—which can lead to uneven cooking—use two skewers per serving, says Schulson. This helps holds them steady.

See our Memorial Day headquarters and our Ultimate Guide to BBQ & Grilling for even more tips, tricks, and recipes.

All featured products are curated independently by our editors. When you buy something through our retail links, we may receive a commission. For more great hand-picked products, check out the Chowhound Shop.



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