Outdoor kitchens are becoming all the rage these days making family barbecues easier than ever! Cooking on the grill is a great way to entertain company or just feed the family without heating up the kitchen or making a mess for that fact. Running back and forth from the kitchen to the patio gets old. These days grilling is easier and more enjoyable by putting together an outdoor kitchen. Even the simplest of set-ups can make outdoor cooking more efficient. The fanciest ones mean you will not have to go back inside until all your guests leave because everything is right at your fingertips! Charcoal was great in the beginning but the gas grill took over because of its convenience. Today’s most advanced grills have side burners, storage space, and work areas built right in. Everything is incorporated into your outside patio and entertaining is no longer a chore to prepare.
Installing an outdoor kitchen may be just the thing for you if you have frequent cookouts and everyone is intrigued with your barbecue skills. Maybe you grill in large amounts and need more of an easier way to do this. An outdoor kitchen also could be just for you if you have an unused patio or deck. If you’re wanting to move past the burgers and dogs and experiment with some savvy dishes an outdoor kitchen may be perfect for you. Also if you’re tired of the outrageous electric bills due to your heating up the kitchen and your air conditioner working overtime. If any of these suggestions resonate with you, it’s probably time to do some outdoor kitchen shopping.
An outdoor kitchen can be as small or elaborate as you want with the grill being the centerpiece. The most common grills come with wheels that you can take with you when you move and come in a wide variety of sizes, features, and prices. These are also fun to take to the beach as well. If you are planning to incorporate the kitchen as a permanent part of your home, select a built-in grill that will drop into space on a cabinet with countertops that are built on-site. This is much like your kitchen inside. Some of the accessories you will need are baskets for grilling fish, vegetables, or hush puppies, a griddle, tongs, and a reliable meat thermometer. Side burners are included in most grills today but a camping stove can get the job done. Make sure your workspace is sanitized for food preparation. There are a variety of lights for your outdoor kitchen but direct light is best for the work area.
Clip-on is available to clip directly onto your grill so you can get your meat perfect in the center! Another consideration is a patio heater or fire pit if you are going to use the space year-round in chilly environments. Insects can ruin the most elegant and well-planned parties so never forget to have repellents conducive to your location. If bugs were not enough, smoke in your guest’s eyes is not comfortable so don’t forget the exhaust hood. Other important things to remember are having enough electrical outlets, a refrigerator, sink, and warming drawers to keep food heated till time to serve. An ice machine is also convenient (no ugly, bulky coolers) and of course the wine storage. Don’t forget the corkscrew!