When you love having barbecues in your backyard, chances are that you've experienced grilling in the rain. Unless it's really heavy (too heavy for you to stop), there are a number of things you can do so that you can carry on cooking what's on your grill. Better yet, you can come prepared – especially if you're anticipating rain but still need to light your grill any way!
Here are some tips on how you can grill like a pro on a rainy day:
Find shelter
The most ideal thing to do is to create a permanently covered grilling station so that you can keep on cooking, no matter what the weather. But if this is not possible, there are temporary solutions you can try. Investing in a BBQ canopy or a retractable awning for your porch or patio is a good way to go.
But if you need a quick solution, a big patio umbrella or a tarp should do the trick. A 5-gallon bucket full or water or sand make good anchors.
Pre-cook your food
If you planned a BBQ session on a day you're expecting some rain, pre-cooking your food in your kitchen is a good idea. For example, you can use the reverse searing method if you're planning to grill some burgers or steaks, you just sear them on low in an oven and finish cooking then on the grill. This means less time in the rain for you!
Wrap your veggies
If you're about to grill different types of vegetables, wrap them all together in tin foil and create a packet. Grill them together instead of separately to reduce time in the rain.
Create a windbreaker
When you're grilling in the rain, the biggest enemy you'll have is the wind. Your umbrella, tarp or canopy won't do any good, so you have to improvise a windbreaker. Set up a sheet of plywood or something similar to create a “wall”.
Make sure it's steady and won't fall on anyone or on your grill!
Control your grill's temperature
The rain will lower your grill's temperature so you should take control so that it won't affect the food. If you're using a charcoal grill, you may need to add more to maintain the heat. If you're using a gas grill, expect burner blowouts. If this happens, turn off the gas, open your lid to let gas escape for a few minutes before turning it back on.
Follow these 5 effective tips for grilling in the rain!
