What should you use to clean raw meats on the grill?

If you're a fan of outdoor grilling, then you know how important it is to keep your equipment clean and properly maintained. But, have you ever considered how you should clean raw meats on the grill before cooking them? It's an essential step that can help prevent foodborne illnesses and keep your grill in top condition. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know.

Why clean raw meats on the grill?

The simple answer is that raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria, like salmonella and E. coli, that can make you sick if ingested. By cleaning raw meats on the grill before cooking, you can reduce the risk of cross-contamination and prevent the spread of these bacteria to your food.

Cleaning raw meats on the grill also helps to remove any residual dirt, debris, or marinade from the previous cookout. This debris can build up over time, leading to uneven cooking and a less-than-ideal flavor profile.

What supplies do you need?

To clean raw meats on the grill, you'll need a few basic supplies:

- Grill brush or scraper

- Tongs or gloves

- Cleaning solution

A grill brush or scraper will help to remove any stubborn bits of debris on the grates. It's important to use a brush or scraper that's designed for your grill type, as different grills may have different materials on the grates.

Tongs or gloves are essential for handling raw meats safely. You should never use your bare hands to handle raw meat, as this can spread bacteria to other surfaces.

Finally, you'll need a cleaning solution to help remove any remaining debris and sanitize the grates. There are many commercial grill cleaners available on the market, but you can also make your own using ingredients like baking soda and vinegar.

How to clean raw meats on the grill

Now that you have your supplies, it's time to get to work. Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning raw meats on the grill:

Step 1: Preheat your grill.

Before you start cleaning, it's important to preheat your grill to a high temperature. This will help to burn off any remaining debris and sanitize the grates.

Step 2: Scrape the grates.

Using your grill brush or scraper, remove any large pieces of debris from the grates. Be sure to scrape both sides of the grates to remove any build-up.

Step 3: Brush the grates.

Next, use your grill brush to scrub the grates clean. This will help to remove any remaining debris and sanitize the surface.

Step 4: Apply your cleaning solution.

If you're using a commercial grill cleaner, follow the instructions on the label to apply it to the grates. If you're using a homemade solution, mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grates and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Scrub the grates again.

Using your grill brush, scrub the grates clean once more to remove any remaining debris and solution.

Step 6: Rinse the grates.

Using a clean rag or paper towel, rinse the grates clean with water. Be sure to remove any remaining debris or cleaning solution.

Step 7: Dry the grates.

Finally, use a clean rag or paper towel to dry the grates thoroughly. This will help to prevent rust and keep your grill in top condition.

Conclusion

Cleaning raw meats on the grill is an essential step that should not be overlooked. By following these simple steps, you can reduce the risk of foodborne illness and keep your grill in top condition. So next time you fire up your grill, take a few extra minutes to clean the grates properly - your stomach (and your taste buds) will thank you!