Grilling over a live fire is not new. This is exactly how early civilizations made protein more palatable and safer to eat. Although the invention of grilling occurred approximately 780,000 years ago, recipes involving cooking over fire should not remain in the dark ages.
Top Grilling Trends, According to Experts
In a 2023 grilling trend report, cookbook authors, top chefs, and pitmasters who have their fingers on the pulse of the grilling scene are included. There are also different techniques and equipment that can be used.
#1. A Variety of Beef Cuts
David Guas, the author of Grill Nation and owner of Bayou Bakery, Coffee & Eatery in Arlington, Virginia, predicts that those who are keeping a close eye on their grocery budget, especially in light of recent food prices, will be more motivated to experiment with less popular cuts of meat that can be proven to be more cost-effective. From a beef perspective, this can include less prized cuts from chuck to flaps or tips. This is a great time to get to know your local butcher, who can give you a piece of advice on new cuts without breaking the bank.
#2. Grilling Vegetables and Fruits
Today’s cooks are aware that there is more to the grill than burgers and hot dogs. The breath of flame can also enhance the flavor of vegetables and fruits. Research shows that approximately 35% of Americans are making a conscious effort to eat less meat. Matt Horn, pitmaster, chef, and owner of Horn Barbecue, Kowbird, and Matty’s Old Fashioned in Oakland, California, observes that a growing number of people are barbecuing vegetables. Horn says that large mushroom caps and summer squash planks are especially popular and delicious when being grilled over grates, but he plans to grill a wide variety of fruits and vegetables over live fires at his Horn Barbecue.
#3. Is Mayo Getting Back?
In the past couple of generations, butter has gotten nearly all of the glory as a ubiquitous grilling menu component to spread on cornbread or toast, brush over corn on the cob, and top a steak just before serving. While those golden sticks will never go out of style, chefs predict that 2023 will mark the return of the mayonnaise as a grilling line-up. Guas shares that he is looking forward to brushing it on some fresh corn before grilling it this summer. Mayonnaise is also an excellent menu component for seasoning blends to proteins and vegetables. You can use it in marinades, distribute it on barbecue sandwiches, or transform it into aioli for use as a condiment, dip, or dressing.
#4. Using Technological Advancements While Grilling
It’s not just your TV, phone, and computer that are getting smarter and smarter every year. Even in the realm of grilling, technology is taking over. Bluetooth temperature gauges that can connect to a phone are the most recent technological innovations that are gaining popularity. People are taking it digitally because it’s easy to use, and it’s convenient for those who don’t want to watch their grills all day. Invest in a probe-style thermometer, such as the Taylor probe that experts vouch for, or seek out a smoker or grill with this technology integrated.