This is a Hammer
What's the Right Way to Clean a Grill?
BY: SAMANTHAMAZZOTTA

Q: I'm a little confused by two conflicting sets of grilling directions. My brotherin law tells me that a barbecue grill works best when thoroughly clean, including the cooking surfaces and the interior. My uncle tells me to just fire up the grill for about 10 to 20 minutes and let the heat burn away any old drippings. I'm still learning this "art" of grilling. What do you recommend? -- Stacy in Secaucus, N.J.

A: I'd go with your brotherin law's advice. Relying on high heat to burn away drippings is not the most reliable way to clean a grill. The drippings will char, releasing lessthan healthy byproducts, and if fresh food is cooked on a grill with charred drippings still attached to the underside, those byproducts could affect the food. In addition, the heat may burn away drippings from the cooking and heating surfaces, but it probably won't affect materials that have dropped into the bottom of the grill box.

A dirty, greasy grill interior can cause uneven, inefficient heating in charcoal and gas grills. Airflow is very important for charcoal grills so that the coals heat evenly and last a long time. Gas grills have various components to safely transport gas from the supply tank to the burner element, and grease, debris and rust can compromise this system.

So, clean the grill interior completely before cooking. Grill cleaners like Goo Gone (available in most stores that sell grilling supplies) will loosen up grease and soot deposits. Brush debris away from surfaces and wash the cooking surface thoroughly in the sink, with soap and water. DO let the grill heat up for at least 10 minutes before cooking, and clean the grill as soon as possible afterward (let it cool down completely first).

A well-maintained outdoor grill will last for years and provide reliable, steady heat -- the most important element in becoming an outdoor grilling artist.

HOME TIP:

Safe grilling tips:

. Grill in an open area away from the house or trees.

. Keep a fire extinguisher and a box of baking soda nearby.

. Never leave a hot grill unattended.

. Never use a grill indoors, whether gas or charcoal.

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