Direct Heat Method for Grilling

The direct heat method is how you would normally think of grilling and barbecuing. It is when food is cooked directly over a heat source. This method is best used for smaller cuts of meat, poultry, fish and vegetables. For example: hamburgers, hot dogs, kabobs, steak, etc.

Direct Heat Method on a Charcoal Grill

Spread coals evenly over the charcoal grate. Place the cooking grate over the coals and place food on the cooking grate to cook. Close the lid on the grill for cooking. Try not to lift the lid too often as you will lose precious heat. Lift to turn food or to test for doneness only.

Direct Heat Method on a Gas Grill

Preheat the grill by turning all burners on high. Place your food on the cooking grate and adjust all burners to the temperature needed or according to your recipe. Close the lid of the grill to cook food. Lift the lid only for turning food or for testing for doneness. Every time you lift the lead, you lose heat quickly.

Indirect Heat Method for Grilling

The indirect heat method is when the heat source is around the food rather than directly underneath it. This method only works on grills that have a lid. It cooks the food more like roasting or baking in an oven. This method is best used for larger, less tender cuts of meat such as roasts or ribs or food that tends to flare up easily. Also good for vegetables and other food that tends to dry out easily.

Indirect Heat Method on a Charcoal Grill

Arrange hot coals evenly on both sides of your charcoal grate. You can place an aluminum drip pan in the middle of the charcoal grate between the coals if you would like to collect the drippings for easier clean up, to cut down on flare ups or for use in sauces or gravy. If you find your drippings are burning, you can add a little water to the drip pan as you go. Place the grate you use to cook on over the coals and place your food on the grate, directly over the drip pan (if you are using one) or the empty space. Put the lid down on the grill and keep covered. You only want to lift the lid when basting or when you need to check to see if your food is done. Lifting the lid too often will let out too much heat.

Indirect Heat Method on a Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill with all burners on high and the lid closed. When the temperature gets to where you want it, turn off one burner and adjust the other(s) accordingly to hold the temperature. You will cook your food on the grate that has no heat source directly below it. You can cook directly on the grate or place it in an aluminum type pan first.