Grilling outdoors is something that most of us look forward to at the end of the day.  It simply adds a whole new flavor to the foods which makes them mouthwatering and delicious.  Skimping on the best tools for the job can make it more of a chore than an experience. You want to enjoy everything about filling your neighborhood with the BBQ aroma.

Not having the right tools can result in overcooked food, bald knuckles, burnt hands, and a frustrated grill master that’s ready to throw in the towel.

Let’s look at what tools make your grilling experience one you will look forward to doing again.

• Spatula – Long handle and an extra wide blade.  Thicker steel is better for sturdiness and durability. If you’ve ever used a flimsy spatula then you know how obnoxious it is to be dumping your food all over the grill or on the ground.
• Tongs – Should be more than 12” long and spring loaded for moving food around.  Extra long tongs should be used if coals are to be moved around.
• Mesh Basket – You can add anything in your basket that is too small to put right on the grill itself.  Many people use them for side dishes such as vegetables or seafood along with the main meat of the meal.
• Wire Brush – There are many types of wire brushes available.  For the most part, these brushes are cheap enough to be considered disposable.  Many people have their own techniques for cleaning grills and some will go through 5 brushes a year while others will only use 1 or 2.  However, it is best to use the long handle brushes to save that hair on the knuckles.
• Skewers – You can add a multitude of food items on a skewer.  You know what tastes good together so load them up with your likings.  The differences between skewers are some are made of steel, some are wooden and some are flexible wire cables.  The type you use is entirely up to you.  Some say the skewer type you use sets a higher or lower class to the meal.  Hmmm… no studies done on that, just opinions…

Below are features to consider when shopping for grilling tools as I was researching different options I found all of these sets to be on sale at amazon. Just follow the links to see the savings.

One other little handy grilling tool that is quite unique and has many great reviews is the Pigtail Food Flipper Set by K2 Development.  It is a 2 piece set that looks like oversized crochet hooks.  It is curly tail shape at the end of the shaft which allows for stable picking up and flipping on the grill.  The pieces come in 12” and 19” with its own wooden box for about $35. We have something similar that we have used for steaks for years. Ours is in the picture above, it was hand forged and we got it at our local state fair. The fancy end even has a bottle opener. It’s a conversation piece as well as being useful.

With grilling utensils the differences seem to be in the storage case, what the handles are made of and the thickness of the steel.  It is whatever look and feel you want.  Hope this gives you a better idea of what to look for when shopping for grilling utensils.

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