| By :
Stephen Daniels
If it's winter and you're chillin' instead of grillin', you might want to listen to what many BBQ enthusiasts have discovered - winter grilling is way cool - in a good way. Now there aren't any big time BBQ contests going on from fall to winter in the northern half of the U.S. However, those hardy souls who venture out into the rain and snow to slap some meat on the grill will definitely impress their families and friends with the unexpected taste thrill. So, dress for the weather and exercise these precautions for successful al fresco cooking: * Store your grill and BBQ accessories in a protected area, away from temperature extremes * If you haven't used your grill for some time, check first for any freeloading critters that may have set up housekeeping. Then, if you didn't clean it after your last BBQ bash, do so now. Removable grills can even be put in self-cleaning ovens for a nice short cut. * Make sure all parts are in good working order. Hire a pro if you're not sure how to do this. Think of this step as equivalent to servicing your car before a long road trip. * Ensure good ventilation when you fire up. Those luscious BBQ fumes contain carbon monoxide. * Store your parts and accessories altogether in a convenient place. Imagine a world famous surgeon reaching out for a scalpel - and there it is. The ongoing argument about whether it is better to grill with charcoal or gas grills is still relevant in cooler climes and times. A gas grill warms up more quickly; a charcoal grill takes longer but produces more of that wonderfully enticing smell. Those who intend from the get go to be year round grillers should consider purchasing a BBQ that produces more BTUs, or even one with infrared parts, conductive rods or lava rocks - more direct heat on the grilling surface, regardless of the air temperature, speeds up the process. Speaking of air temperature, to avoid excessive opening and closing of the grill hood, which will allow the cold air to seep in and extend your time in the cold, use a timer and determine your cook time based on weight, not good looks. This is particularly important when smoking Mr. Cow instead of grilling him. Once the grill is ready for take off, it is just as important to dress for success. Avoid any loose and flapping clothing that may dip into the fire and make you part of the incineration system. This is not a good way to be the life of the party - perhaps the opposite. So, clear a path, get out of the wind and fire on.
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