Apart from the grill itself, there are few essentials tools used in the grilling that keep grilling safe, give more consistent results and enjoyable. Here few essentials tools and accessories for you to buy:
Long-handled utensils, such as tongs, basting brushes, and spatulas, are necessary for getting foods on and off the hot grill rack, for basting and turning. It’s better to have two sets of tongs, so you can use one for food and another one for moving the hot coals around. Buy them with loops or hooks so you can hang them within reach.
Grill Brushes are the tools for cleaning your grill grates. It is the most effective utensil for cleaning the grid and removing burned on, stuck-on food. They are available in a variety of sizes and handle styles, mostly features a long wooden handle and a brush made of brass bristles. They usually have a scraper at the end. Some models offer replaceable brush head, as well.
Grilling thermometers are the safest way to get that perfect grilled food every time. It’s the best way to judge the doneness of grilled meats and poultry. Some may be inserted prior to grilling. The most common grill thermometer are the instant reads. They give an accurate reading within seconds of insertion, but they are not heatproof and can’t be left in the meat during grilling. It’s a must have item for any griller.
Grill Toppers are items such as Wok’s that sit right on your grill grate for cooking smaller items such as vegetables or shrimp, keep small foods from falling through the grid. However some of the larger ones can be used to cook things like pizza. Most of these items are shaped just like the items that you would find for your stove top, except they have holes in the bottom to allow the grilled flavor to come through.
Metal or disposable foil drip pans placed beneath grilling meats to prevent flare-ups. The pan should be 1-1/2 inches deep and extend about 3 inches beyond either end of the meat. The juices that collect in the drip pan may be used for a sauce or gravy. Always bring drippings to a boil before using.
Hinged wire baskets, made specifically for use on the grill, are designed to hold delicate foods like fish, shellfish, and mushrooms, which can stick and break when turned with a spatula. The hinged basket protects them and really speeds up the process of turning small foods individually.
Rib racks maximizing the grill’s cooking capacity by standing slabs of ribs at an angle to the heat source.
Grill toppers are perforated metal plates you can put on top of the grid to cook vegetables and other small pieces of food that might fall through the grid. Always spray toppers with nonstick cooking spray and preheat before adding the food. Grill woks and grill skillets are similar products made with sides so you can toss and stir-fry on the grill.
Skewers are indispensable for kabobs and come in either metal or bamboo and in a variety of lengths. Bamboo skewers must be soaked in water at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Aluminum foil is the grill cook’s best friend. Vegetables can be enclosed in aluminum foil packed before placing them directly on the coals or on the grid to cook. Ensure there is no leak so you’ll get even cooking.
Heavy-duty mitts safeguard your hands and forearms and prevent burns. Never grill without them.
Water spritzers, household plastic spray bottles filled with water, or water pistols come in handy for quenching flare-ups when grilling with charcoal. Warning: do not use water with a gas grill!