Farmer Jim’s 7 Famous Little Tips for Improved Grilling

Don’t put the grill away just yet. It’s all about the experience. Enjoy!

2-Minute Read

Seasoned grass-fed steaks over a wood-fired grill in Northern Michigan at The North Coast Ranch.

While I am not passionate about backyard grilling, I do enjoy it...and I bet you do too. As we are nearing the end of the traditional “grilling season” in Northern climates, there’s no need to stop grilling just because football season has started, the kids are back in school, etc. In fact, temps have cooled slightly…and the days and nights are 100% perfection.

In any season, grilling elevates the flavor of meat and creates a unique connection with the food that indoor cooking often lacks. Plus, the experience of gathering with family and friends, enjoying a cold drink, and engaging in lively conversation while watching over the grill, is simply unbeatable.

Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting out, here are some essential tips to help make your next barbecue a hit.

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1. Select High-Quality Ingredients
A great grilling experience begins with top-notch ingredients. Choose sustainably raised, grass-fed meat whenever possible. It’s simply a better choice for better health. Sustainably raised foods benefit the environment and offer traditional flavor that will enhance your dishes. Your beef will taste how real beef is supposed to taste.

2. Prepare Your Grill
Proper grill preparation is muy importante (yes, I have been taking Spanish lessons). Make sure to preheat your grill to the right temperature and clean the grates thoroughly. A well-maintained grill will prevent food from sticking and ensure even cooking.

3. Master Temperature Control
Grilling is more than just applying heat to meat; it’s about mastering temperature control. Avoid the common mistake of grilling everything over high heat, which can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Utilize both direct (high heat) and indirect (low heat) grilling methods, adjusting as necessary based on what you’re cooking and how well-done, or not, you like your beef.

4. Use a Meat Thermometer
To avoid overcooking or undercooking your grass-fed beef, a meat thermometer is
indispensable. Even after removing the meat from the grill, it continues to cook, so aim for around 130°F for a perfectly medium-rare steak.
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5. Seasoning – Less is More
With high-quality meats and vegetables, less is often more when it comes to seasoning. A touch of salt, pepper and olive oil can enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. Remember, you can always add more seasoning after cooking, but it’s hard to fix over-seasoned food.

6. Avoid Overcrowding the Grill
It’s tempting to load the grill with everything at once, but overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and make it harder to manage. Leave some space between items to allow heat to circulate effectively.

7. Allow the Meat to Rest
Patience pays off. After cooking, let your meat rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender and flavorful result.

Grilling should be an enjoyable and relaxed activity. Don’t stress about perfection; with a little practice, you’ll be a grilling master in no time.

Happy grilling!

​- Jim

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