Fun and Games

Porch Furniture Follows Barbecue Action

Many say that love is in the air in springtime. However, there is no way of knowing if this is true, as love doesn’t cause any obvious changes in air quality (except to those who are stricken – er, I mean smitten). Furthermore, forecasters don’t issue warnings for “love action days,” as they do for “ozone action days,” wherein high-risk individuals are advised to stay indoors. If they did, I guess we’d be in danger of getting hit by Cupid’s arrow as we sat on our porch furniture.
It seems as though the only thing that anyone can say is noticeably in the air this time of year is the smell of outdoor cooking. In fact, its inescapable and tantalizing aroma has such a profound effect on us that we can’t drive down a street without developing an overwhelming craving for grilled hamburgers or barbecued chicken (and I’ve just now discovered that even writing about it whets the appetite). So, perhaps some “barbecue action days” should be declared.
Another consequence of this delirium is that it causes thousands more people each year to take up outdoor cooking; not that there’s anything wrong with that. The problem is that some novices assume that grilling means simply tossing food onto a hot surface. This causes the wanton destruction of tons of meat that ends up charred, under-cooked, over-cooked, or sometimes, burned beyond recognition – by taste or sight.
Indeed, it takes time, practice, and skill to master outdoor cooking. For starters, experienced or not, you must be acquainted with the grill or barbecue that you’re using, and know the correct temperatures and methods for cooking specific foods. It’s also important to take safety precautions. Ignoring these basic steps can result in disappointing meals – or worse.
Another rookie mistake is failing to get organized before cooking. Whether you’re using gas or charcoal, be sure that you have enough fuel to cook the entire meal, or your barbecue may be a bust. Preheating is also paramount, and it provides a period in which you can make proper preparations, such as preventing the meat from sticking to the grill by brushing it with olive or vegetable oil.
Have all of your food, beverages, and condiments ready in advance, and keep sauces and seasonings for the meat within reach of the grill, so you won’t have to leave food unattended. Timing is everything, and flipping it too late can cause overcooking or charring. Always use tongs or a spatula to turn it, as stabbing meat with a fork will let the juices run out, taking much of the flavor with them.
To make it even more succulent, allow the meat to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the grill. Then, when you’re relieved of your post, allow yourself to sit for as long as you like, on a comfortable porch chair from CedarStore.com. Their huge selection includes wood, metal, and synthetic outdoor furniture in styles from classic to contemporary

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Del’s Folks Classics Front Porch Swing