Grilling is one of the most enjoyable activities, especially during the summer months. However, beginner grillers often make mistakes that affect the final result and the flavor of the food. Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid to become a better griller.

1. Not Waiting for the Fire to Reach the Right Temperature
Beginners often fear the fire will “burn out” or mistakenly think it's ready, leading them to start grilling too early while the fire is still too intense and hasn’t “settled.”

2. Flipping the Meat Too Often
Constantly flipping the meat prevents a nice crust from forming and impacts the texture. Flip the meat only once or twice during cooking for the best results.

3. Overuse of Starters, Especially Chemical Ones
Avoid using non-natural fire starters, especially if you add too much initially. The strong smell can transfer to your food. Remember: The better the quality of the charcoal, the less starter you’ll need. At Falelakis, we provide our customers with the highest quality charcoal to make grilling enjoyable and easy for everyone.

4. Keeping the Grill Grates Clean
A clean grill grate is essential to prevent food from sticking and maintain good flavor. A helpful tip is to let the grill grate “burn off” over the fire before placing food on it, then clean it with a wire brush. Optionally, you can wipe it down with a lemon for added freshness.

5. Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring your meat is properly cooked, especially with large cuts. Invest in a good digital thermometer for accurate measurements.

6. Frequently Opening the Lid
Every time you open the grill lid, you lose heat and extend the cooking time. Avoid opening the lid too often to maintain a stable temperature. As mentioned, the thermometer is your best friend while you relax with a cold beer.

7. Marinating the Meat
Marinades add incredible flavor to meat, but they need time to soak in. Let the meat marinate for several hours or overnight for the best results. Remember, no marinade can compensate for poor-quality meat. Invest in quality meat, and let the flavors reward you.

8. Using the Right Temperature for Each Type of Food
Different types of meat, fish, and vegetables require different temperatures. Create heat zones on your grill to cook each item at the ideal temperature.

9. Safety Measures
It’s important to let the fire settle down and avoid flare-ups, especially with fatty cuts of meat. You can also keep a spray bottle of water nearby or have a “safe zone” without charcoal to handle flare-ups.

10. Letting the Meat Rest
After grilling, let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.

Conclusion
Grilling is an art that requires attention and experience. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your skills and enjoy delicious meals every time. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, these tips will help you become the ultimate BBQ master.

Good luck and happy grilling!