Alrighty grill lovers. May is National BBQ Month! Now there’s a holiday I can really put my tongs around. Let’s celebrate this sucker with some Curry-style.
Here it goes.
First of all, this celebratory meal (or meals, right?) is going to be cooked entirely on the grill. I know what you’re thinking: “Hold on there Curry and don’t be in such a hurry!” Well, “Don’t-worry-Curry” has a plan. We are going to start with the main course. Beef, chicken, pork, even lamb all are in abundance during the spring. Question is, what sounds good to you and your family?
Next, we are going to cook all our complimentary vegetables on the grill. Yes, this can be done. You can use a special grilling pan made for vegetables that goes directly on the grills’ rack. If you don’t have one, cut your vegetables into portions, wrap them in foil, season them, and splash with a little olive oil. Place the packet on the grill and cook till al dente.
Can’t get enough corn-on-the-cob? Corn-on-the-cob cooked on the grill is one of the best preparation methods. The question is, are you supposed to shuck the corn? I cook my ears of corn leaving the husk on. Just soak them in a bucket of water for a few hours and then toss them on the grill. Shucking the corn is also an option, especially if your kids are looking for a chore (yeah, right!). Once shucked, place on the grill and fire away. Finish both methods of grilling by brushing on melted butter and sea salt.
How about grilled artichokes? Split smaller artichokes in half, toss in olive oil, season with your favorite blend, and grill until al dente. Other no-brainer options: Asparagus, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, all delectable grilled veggies! Just olive oil, season, and grill away.
On to the starches. One of the best ways I have found to cook starch is cooking in foil pouches. Cut the potatoes (Yukons, Reds, Russets) into slices or small chunks. Season with olive oil or butter, sprinkle with cheese and season with fresh or dried herbs. For yams and sweet potatoes: butter, brown sugar and cinnamon makes for a tasty treat.
Speaking of treats – pound cake grills great. No kidding. Spread both sides of a piece of cake with butter and sprinkle with brown sugar. Place on your grill and caramelize both sides. Serve with a scoop of ice cream and berry sauce, top with whip cream garnish with a mint sprig. Not a cake person? Take a peach or nectarine, split in half and grill away. You can also grill some pineapple and drizzle with a honey-cinnamon glaze. I guarantee your guests will be impressed!
Happy Grilling!
Written by Angus Brands’ Jeff Curry
