Ready to Get Grilling? Here's How to Barbecue Protein to Perfection

Grilling, whether in the heat of summer or the chill of winter, is a favourite outdoor pastime. From juicy burgers to sizzling steaks to savoury salmon, there are endless options to keep you satisfied. To grill great-tasting foods like a pro, it's important to cook your chosen protein to the optimal temperature and timing.​

Barbecue Essentials

Whether you're getting into grilling or looking to upgrade your barbecue, you'll want to choose the best barbecue for your needs. Explore the types of barbecues and shop our selection for your next go-to grill.

In addition to the barbecue itself, there are a wide variety of BBQ accessories and tools that help make grilling easier and add versatility to your cooking. Discover essential BBQ tools and shop our selection, so you're ready to wow guests at your next backyard barbecue.

Grilling by Protein Type

For great-tasting dishes, it's essential to grill the protein properly. Read on for tips on how to barbecue different types of protein to perfection.

How to Barbecue Steak

Follow these tips for flavourful, juicy steak.

• Marinate the steak for anywhere from a few hours to overnight

• Preheat the barbecue and make sure the meat is room temperature before grilling

• Keep in mind that grilling time will vary by the type of cut, the thickness of the steak and personal preference. Do you and your guests like it rare, medium or well done? It's important to cook to the correct internal temperature for the preferred doneness

• To sear the steaks, place them over direct heat. Flip them half way through

TIP: When choosing steak, marbled cuts of beef are the more tender and flavourful.

​

How to Barbecue Chicken

Follow these tips for delicious grilled chicken.

• Regardless of type, it's important to cook chicken completely through to a safe internal temperature

• Prior to grilling, season the chicken and preheat the grill for 10 to 15 minutes

• Grill the chicken over the hottest part of the grill, flipping it halfway through

• Cook the chicken with the barbecue lid down for more even cooking throughout

• To check the internal temperature of chicken, use a meat thermometer and push it through the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any bone

• The internal temperature for chicken should be 165°F

TIP: Consider a rotisserie kit to grill a whole chicken or turkey.

How to Barbecue Salmon

Follow these tips for flavourful grilled salmon.

• Rinse and pat the salmon dry

• Prior to grilling, marinate the fish and preheat the barbecue to a high grill temperature

• Place it skin-side down on a well-oiled grill over direct heat; alternatively, you can oil the fish itself

• Cover and grill until the fish turns opaque and the thickest section flakes easily

TIP:

• You can grill firm-fleshed fish such as salmon and tuna directly on the grill. Flakier fish is best grilled in aluminum foil

• Grill shrimp on skewers or in a basket to ensure it doesn’t slip through the grates. Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes per side to cook and is ready when opaque

TIP: A cedar plank or grill basket are great options for grilling fish and seafood. A basket also allows you to grill veggies along with your choice of protein.

How to Grill a Burger

Follow these tips for juicy burgers bursting with flavour.

• Don't use lean beef. A higher fat content produces rich and juicy burgers

• Keep the meat cold in the fridge until you're ready to make the patties. Form the patties with wet hands to prevent sticking

• High-quality beef tastes great unseasoned. If you prefer to season your burgers, do so quickly without overworking the meat

• Preheat the barbecue temperature to medium-high heat

• Cook the burgers with the lid open. Don't press down on the patties as it will release the tasty juices

How to Barbecue Pork

Here's how to barbecue pork chops to perfection.

• Preheat the barbecue temperature to high

• Once the chops are on the grill, don't touch them except to flip half way through. If you flip them too often, you'll dry them out

If you’re cooking pork ribs, season and let them marinate from a few hours to overnight. Cook pork ribs from room temperature. When ready, grill the ribs slowly on low for juicy meat that falls off the bone.

How to Grill Tofu

Looking for a vegetarian option? Here's how to grill tofu for a meatless main.

• Choose an extra-firm tofu

• Cover and press the tofu with something heavy for a half hour to drain excess water

• Cut it into slices (about 1/2-inch thick) and marinate for a few hours to overnight

• Preheat the barbecue for about 10 minutes on medium-high, grill tofu 2-3 minutes per side and enjoy

BBQ Grill Chart

Follow the grilling guidelines in the chart below to ensure your protein cooks to the perfect doneness and a safe internal temperature.

Barbecue Basics

Follow these barbecue basics for great grilling results every time.

• Make sure your grill is clean before cooking. This helps prevent sticking and transfer of foods from previous barbecues

• Check the correct temperature and time for the protein type before you begin grilling to prevent under or overcooking

• Oil your grill (or the food) prior to cooking and don't overcrowd your cooking surface

• Let the protein rest for five minutes before serving for superior moistness and flavour

Grilling is a great way to create flavourful foods for family and friends. From big juicy steaks to flaky fish to crispy tofu, there are endless options you can grill at your next backyard get-together. Once you master how to barbecue with the right grill time and temperature, you'll be able to take your grill skills to the next level. ​