John Mariani

Grilling is one of the most popular and enjoyable social activities that combines the enjoyment of good food and friends. But if you’re just starting out in the wonderful world of grilling, it can seem intimidating at first. To help you get started, check out some guidelines on shopping for a grill, learn the two basic methods of grilling, and read some helpful tips for grilling success.

In this recipe, apricot jam is the base for a sweet and spicy glaze with which you cover the pork chops. These apricot-glazed pork chops are a wonderfully flavorful grilled main dish. Preparation time: 15 minutes Grilling time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings 1 piece fresh ginger 2 cloves garlic 1 cup apricot jam 3 tablespoons cider vinegar 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste 4 loin pork chops, cut 1-inch thick (about 2 pounds total) Oil for brushing chops Salt and pepper to taste Prepare a medium-hot fire in a charcoal or gas grill.

The grill’s unique ability to impart rich, smoky flavor gives this Middle Eastern eggplant dip, baba ghanoush, its very special taste. Baba ghanoush makes a tasty appetizer, served with grilled pita bread or chips. Preparation time: 10 minutes Grilling time: 15 to 20 minutes Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1 large eggplant (about 1 1/2 pounds) 1 large lemon 1 to 2 medium cloves garlic 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon tahini 3 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra to brush eggplant 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste Pepper to taste 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley Prepare a medium-hot fire in a charcoal or gas grill.

If your grilling experience is limited to roasting a hot dog on a branch over an open fire when you were a kid at camp, you've just scratched the surface of what can be a very exciting (and somewhat intimidating) way to cook. To start your grilling journey, two key terms to know are direct and indirect — the two basic methods of grilling.

Before you begin grilling, here are some general tips that you should always keep in mind for the sake of safety, preparation, and getting the best results. ©Ivanko80 / Adobe Stock Take time to prepare. Even the best BBQ cooks sometimes forget to prepare, and that can cause frustration once you throw the food on the fire.

Because the two most popular grills are vastly different, buyers are faced with a difficult question: Should I buy charcoal or gas? If you're in the middle of this great grill debate, don't worry. The following list, which compares the major features of those two basic types of grills, can help you make a decision: Cost: Gas has a much larger initial investment, from $150 up to $5,000 and more!