Grilling Season Starts When Summer Ends
As summer fades and autumn settles in, many of us instinctively move our cooking indoors. But true grill enthusiasts (like all of us here at Wildwood Grilling) can’t help but ask:
Is grilling season really over?
The answer: Absolutely not!!
Fall is one of the most rewarding times to fire up the grill. The crisp air, shorter days, and the mix of wood smoke with the scent of fallen leaves create the perfect backdrop for hearty, soul-warming meals. With just a little preparation, you can master the art of grilling well into the cooler months and make the season taste even better.
I make it a habit to inspect my grill after a heavy summer of very frequent grilling. Look for wear and tear, rust, or clogged burners. Clean out ash from charcoal grills or ensure propane tanks are full. Most importantly, don’t forget to empty that grease tray before it overflows, cleaning up cold grease is considerably more difficult and not worth risking.
I highly recommend the use of a grill cover. It’s worth investing in a high-quality grill cover to shield your setup from rain, frost, and falling leaves. A good cover should last for several years.
NEED HELP GETTING YOUR FIRE STARTED?
CHECK OUT OUR FIRESTARTER
With darkness approaching faster, light matters:
Consider adding outdoor lighting near your grill. For a quick convenient fix, LED work lights or string lights can add both function and ambiance. Maybe put some blankets out there in the outdoor seating area for your diners.
If you have the space, try positioning your grill in a sheltered spot with reduced winds and precipitation. Remember to maintain a well-ventilated area.
You may need to adjust your grilling techniques for cooler weather. This may include adjusting cooking times that you may have become accustomed to over the summer months. Cool air can lower your grill’s internal temperature, so remember to preheat for longer and monitor temps closely.
Fall grilling can bring with it larger cuts. Use indirect heat for these slow-cooked meals which relate to fall favorites like smoked pork shoulder or whole chicken. A whole spatchcocked chicken on a plank is an ideal fall pairing. Not sure how to spatchcock a bird, try this quick tutorial. https://wildwoodgrilling.com/spatchcock-chicken In fall the selection of seasonal produce will change. Think grilled squash, apples, sweet potatoes and carrots for caramelized, smoky sides.
Take advantage of the seasonal nostalgia that wood smoke brings. Cooler air carries smoke beautifully. Cedar planks for robustly seasoned Chicken, Copper River Salmon and thick Pork Chops. Hardwoods like Hickory, Cherry and Maple all help bring this seasonal element to life on the grill.
Grilling Planks, Grilling Wraps or something as simple as smoker box filled with wood chips on the grill will allow you to achieve this effortlessly.
Grilling in the fall isn’t just about cooking, it’s about savoring the season. With a little preparation and a touch of creativity, you can turn your backyard into a haven for smoky, satisfying meals. Want help planning a fall grilling menu, or choosing the best wood for smoking? Talk to us, the experts at Wildwood grilling.
LOOKING FOR SOME FALL RECIPE INSPIRATION?