Out the door

People love eating outside when the weather is good. Appetites are hearty; you can make a lot of noise; you can spill things. This section will give you some ideas to make that a success.

 

Grilling

This is not as intimidating and difficult as you might think. However, I would suggest a little experience when someone is around to help. Gas grills really are the best, and they don't have to be expensive. They are just like any stove you are getting used to. Once you have tried it a few times, you know exactly at which setting and for how long to cook. When you are finished, you turn it off with no worries about further fire. With a gas grill you would be much more likely to fire up for a few shrimp or some vegetable kebabs than you would be with the long process of waiting for charcoal.

Having said all that, I will now confess that I still call charcoal "real grilling". And it does take more experience. Pile up the coals in a pyramid and soak with lighter fluid. Wait 1 minute. Light with a butane Fireplace lighter or with long fireplace matches. Put grill on to burn off old food and dust. Wait 30 minutes for coals to form an ash. Scrub grill with a wire brush. Touch metal spatula to the grill to give yourself an idea of where it is. Then hold your hand 6 inches above it. It should feel pretty hot. Place meats on grill. Cook and turn normally. Use long handled instruments and mitts. If anything fall through the grill, either let it burn or dismantle the cooking surface to fish it out. Don't go coal-diving for the sake of a burger.

 

Picnics, patio parties and barbecues

A lot of foods just taste better outside. Remember the following:

Have plenty of chairs or blankets for people to sit on.

Plan on a little extra food in case the dogs get away with a weenie or in case appetites are heartier due to the outdoors.

Hot food gets cold faster.

Cold food gets hot faster.

Have some snacks handy to keep appetites at bay.

Bring double napkins and more drinks than usual.

Secure things in case of wind.

 

Don't forget that the setting is important, just as it is indoors.

Give children responsibilities you might not give otherwise. They learn to take part where accidents aren't as serious.

Have some games available.

Plan on bad weather and then assume it will be good.

Have fun and prepare to share recipes. This seems to happen more at outdoor gatherings.