winter grilling in Algarve

Winter is around the corner, and here in the Algarve, we are lucky to have a climate that allows us to grill all year long. But if you are always too cold to grill outdoors during chilly days, we want to offer you some winter grilling tips and tricks! Read on before firing up your barbecue in cold temperatures.

Can you grill out in the winter?

Yes! Bear in mind that with cold weather, your grill will take longer to heat up. Give yourself extra time before throwing anything down in the winter. 

Also, a longer heating time requires more fuel for your grill or smoker. Cold temperatures also mean your grill has to work harder and use more fuel to maintain the temperature you want.

How do you keep a grill from rusting in the winter?

The easiest way to ensure your grill grates won’t rust is to clean the grease and food particles away after every cook! Remember to put a light coat of oil on your cooking grids after cleaning to prevent them from rusting. Read more on our cleaning guide.

Is there a grill that doesn’t rust?

Yes! The stainless steel body resists rust and other corrosion. The body of this grill isn’t the only part that will stand the test of time! Also, stainless steel cooking grids retain heat for long periods providing even heating while grilling. 

If you want to enhance your outdoor cooking experience, we recommend Napoleon’s series gas grills.

How do I prepare my propane grill for winter?

Unlike gasoline, propane fuel doesn’t require any specific winterizing. Propane has the advantage of having an indefinite shelf life, so no stabilizers are needed. Disconnect the tank from the grill after ensuring the valve is tightly closed, and store it outside, upright and covered.

grilling during winter
Ready to get cosy during winter?

Tips for grilling during winter

Grilling is a year-round event. Check these tips for successful winter grilling!

Before you grill

  • Safety check. Check all the gas lines, burners and jets for possible blockages.
  • Gas. Use a grill with a high BTU rating for maximum heat output. And make sure you have enough propane! You can’t cook without it!  
  • Wear appropriate clothes. Wear a warm jacket, but be careful of any hanging fabric that could catch fire. Also, warm gloves are helpful. Select gloves, such as fingerless gloves that allow you to move your fingers.
  • Bring your grill closer to the house. Place your grill in a sheltered location from cold winds (approximately 10 feet from combustible surfaces). You’ll be more likely to grill if you shorten the walk between your house and grill or garage and grill.
  • Meal planning. Grill smaller cuts of meat and fast-cooking vegetables. Smaller cuts take less time to thaw, season and cook.

While you grill

  • Don’t open the lid. If you’re constantly opening the lid, you add five to seven minutes to your cook time. Leaving the lid down in the winter will help your grill retain as much heat as possible.
  • Use the correct grilling tools. To avoid losing natural juices, use long-handled tongs or spatulas instead of forks.
  • Direct and indirect cooking. Put the food directly over lit burners to sear and cook food from the outside—Preheat the grill with all burners on for larger cuts of meat such as chicken and fish fillets. Once the grill is hot, put food over the unlit burners, and close the lid to make the inside of the meats juicy and tender while the outside is brown.
  • Use a warming rack. To keep cooked food warm, toast bread or cook delicate foods in aluminium foil pouches.
  • Give time. Let the grill do the work! Resist the urge and turn foods over as little as possible.

After you grill

  • Rest the meat. Let your grilled foods stand for a few minutes before serving to allow their juices to redistribute. This will ensure the juiciest taste.
  • Clean your grill for the next time. Clean the grids and racks with a quality grill brush while the grill is still hot.
  • Protect your grill. Coat cooking grids with cooking oil, empty the greased pan and protect surfaces with a quality cover that fits your grill. It’s a good habit to keep your grill covered all year long because, over time the elements can take a toll on your grill.
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Ready to have the perfect winter grilling experience? Try our recipes and tips, and let us know in the comments. Visit our showroom in Almancil or make sure to check our products online. See you soon!

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