Summer is the season for the great American cookout.
So how can you save money this summer?
Their eight expert tips for cooking out on a budget will set you up for summer success.
Want to save more more on your summer party menus? We’ve rounded up 10 smart ways tosave money on spices.
But first, lets get something straight: Are you grilling or barbecuing?
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BBQing vs. Grilling
The difference in technique is simple, but the distinction is an important one.
Basically, its low and slow versus hot and fast, direct versus indirect, Lampe explained.
With barbecue, the heat circulates around the entire surface of the meat or veggie.
With grilling, the heat comes from only one side.
Barbecue is slow cooking and grilling has a much quicker result.
A bonus with a barbecue less expensive cuts of meat really shine, likethese options from BBQ Champs Academy.
Both techniques can result in a delicious cookout, but dont worry if you only have a grill.
Keep reading for tips to turn your grill into a barbecue or smoker.
And dont mind us if we use the term grilling as an all-purpose cookout word.
We know you do the same.
Ramsey and Lampe both said only a few items are really necessary for successful outdoor cooking.
For Ramsey, the only essential accessory is wood.
Wood chips can enhance the flavor of the food youre grilling or barbecuing.
Lampes go-to accessory is an instant read thermometer, which can be found at affordable prices.
Weve learned that the internal temperature of meat is critically important for getting it done right.
You dont want to guess or go by time.
If you buy an instant read thermometer, you wont make mistakes, said Lampe.
But if youre debating price, theyre both pretty affordable in our book.
Home improvement stores often have aggressive sales on charcoal, so stock up when the prices drop.
Look for one thats made well.
So think of it as a good investment, Lampe said.
Open it up and take a look inside.
See what the mechanics of it look like.
If its steel, is it heavy duty steel?
If it feels cheap, it probably is.
Look for one thats made better.
Veggie sides are even more delicious on the grill, like thismushroom antipasto saladfrom Epicurious.
But vegetables can also be the star of your main dish.
For the budget griller and barbecuer, these38 veggie entreesfrom My Recipes are sure to kindly.
Dont shy away from fruit either, which is made sweeter when its grilled.
Serve grilled peaches and pineapple with pork chops.
Watch for sales and use that freezer.
Can You Survive 10 Days of Budgeting?
Grind Your Own Food and Shop Sales
Many pay extra for those premade patties and prepackaged cuts.
They will all cost less.
Cheap meat grinders run from $15 to $40, while a high-end one costs about $200.
It could be a worthy investment, especially if youre going for expert griller status.
As for your non-burger meats?
Lampe advises looking out for pork loin, and recommends using a brine.
Dont be afraid to grab chicken and turkey.
Turkey is a great value in the barbecue pit and on the grill, he said.
Make Your Own Rubs and Sauces
Making a delicious rub or BBQ sauce is easier than you think.
On a budget, all you need is wood, ketchup and vinegar.
For sauce, the one must-have ingredient is vinegar, Ramsey said.
Lampe also advises keeping it simple.
Paprika is nice because it adds color to the food.
Dont be afraid to experiment, he said.
So, skip store bought and get creative.
The best part you control the quality of the ingredients and the flavors!
you’re able to start by browsing these17 rub recipesand these24 homemade BBQ sauce recipes.
Dont Let Anything Go to Waste
Kitchenfood wasteis a big, wasteful deal in the U.S.
Using everything you have can mean big savings and delicious meals when it comes to grilling.
Theres awhole world of unusual foodsyou can grill to prevent food waste and liven up a backyard shindig.
Wrap the traditional ingredients for a Cajun boil in foil and let them tramp over an open fire.
Pizza can get the grill treatment, too.
Contributor Veronica Matthews specializes in lifestyle topics.
Former staffer Stephanie Bolling contributed to this report.
