Steven Raichlen's Grilling Wish List
Getting a present for dad is always a difficult task — at least it is for me. A tie? Golf clubs? The same cologne you got him last year? Instead of wasting time and money on useless products, we decided to ask the grilling master Steven Raichlen what would be on his wish list if he didn't already have every barbecue tool and piece of equipment known to man.
Host of the television show Primal Grill and author of the best-selling Barbecue Bible cookbook series, Raichlen knows a thing or two about cooking on the grill. He says that there are about four essential tools that everyone should have plus some fun accessories/specialized equipment. We compiled his list below, plus came up with some fun ones of our own. Let us know what you end up buying your dad or if you have other go-to gift ideas!
Essential Accessories
Perfect for cleaning the grill. (Photo courtesy of grilling4all.com)
2. A Long-Handled, Spring-Loaded Tong
That's for moving your food around on the grill.
3. Instant-Read Thermometer.
This is a product that I don't actually manufacture myself and buy it from a company called ThermaWorks. It's a great instand-read meat thermometer and comes in a variety of different colors, which is always fun. (Photo courtesy of ThermaWorks)
4. A Pair of Good Heavy, Suede Grill Gloves
Why? So you don't burn your hands.
Fun Accessories
This enables you to cook four racks of ribs upright, in a space you'd normally only be able to fit one or two racks. (Photo courtesy of grilling4all.com)
This is great for making grilled poppers. People always love those. (Photo courtesy of Williams-Sonoma)
It's something that's been around the block, but everyone loves it. (Photo courtesy of grilling4all.com)
This enables you to grill oysters or clams. (Photo courtesy of grilling4all.com)
Great for grilling small things that would otherwise fall through the grates. (Photo courtesy of Williams-Sonoma)
There's a spray bottle that we came out with that you can put your favorite wine or juice in and use it to spray the meat as it roasts. That's always kind of fun. (Photo courtesy of Grilling4all.com)
More Fun Ideas
Because who doesn't love meatballs? Try making these and other unlikely grill foods this summer. (Photo courtesy of Williams-Sonoma)
Finally a mitt that let's you feel like you're actually using your hands when picking up hot plates instead of giant, awkward blocks. Lightweight and comfortable, these come in both men's and women's sizes (just in case you don't want to leave mom out). (Photo courtesy of CuisiPro)