Summer in Boston can be amazing.  The warm weather brings about many unique opportunities, whether it is spending time outside, a trip to the beach, playing a round of golf, and of course grilling. Grilling allows you to enjoy the weather and prepare food without making your home warmer than it already is.

It can be very difficult to grill in Boston. The regulations are pretty strict.  If you are one of the fortunate ones that have the ability to barbeque then be sure to take advantage of it while you can.

Here is PadMatcher.com’s grilling essentials for 2012.

The Grill

The debate over charcoal versus a gas grill is one that has been going on for years.  Using a charcoal grill is a favorite among hard core grillers.  Charcoal grills are usually better at enhancing flavor (particularly when wood is involved) and are much more affordable than gas grills.  The disadvantages of charcoal grilling are that it takes time to get the coals to the right temperature and there is more clean up than a gas grill.

Gas grills are basically the complete opposite to charcoal.  Gas grills are much better at regulating temperature and of course, are far more convenient to set up and to clean.  Unlike charcoal, gas grills are generally more expensive and do not enhance the taste as well as a charcoal grill can.

Cleaning the Grill

A clean grill grate will cook better, last longer, and won’t throw off the flavor of your food.

The key is cleaning before your grilling session, not at the end.  Simply light the coals (or turn on the burners), shut the lid, and let it heat up for 7-10 minutes. The heat will help loosen the residue from your last use and make it easy to remove with a grill brush.

Grilling Essentials

When thinking of grill essentials most people can come up with the usual suspects: spatula, tongs, brush, and barbeque fork.

Instant Read Thermometer

If you are not an expert at telling how well done a steak is on your own then you should invest in a meat thermometer. This handy device will ensure you cook your meat to perfection every time.

Barbeque Mit

Laugh if you want, but the next time you burn your knuckles reaching over the grill you will be glad you have one.

Double Prong Skewers

Double prong skewers are much better than single prong when it comes to turning the food.  Single prong skewers can cause the food to turn unevenly, something you won’t have to worry about with this asset.

Grill Basket

Hate it when you are grilling vegetables and they fall between the grates?  Well a grill basket will help limit the amount of wasted food while giving you that grilled taste.   It’s perfect for those of us who love grilling, but eat more than just meat.

Propane Gas Monitor

Nothing is worse than inviting people over to fire up the grill and then you run out of gas.  Here is a great tool to save you the embarrassment.  If you do not have one there’s an easy trick to estimate how much is left with just a glass of water.

Fun Accessories

Barbeque Branding Iron

Want to personalize each meal?  Barbeque branding irons will allow you to brand the meat with whatever you would like.

Condiment Gun

Applying your condiments just got more fun.  Check out this condiment gun for precision application of your favorite toppings.

Tips

• Here are some amazing dishes from jalapeno poppers to paella grilled in foil.
• Not sure if your steak is done?  Check out this useful chart that tells you the exact temperature you need to reach based on what kind of meat you are grilling.
• The importance of letting your meat rest – explained here.
• Brine vs. Marinade vs. Rub explained.
• Forgetful after a few brews?  Don’t worry, there’s a solution for that.   This printable cheat sheet has everything you need to get by.