Steak Enthusiast

‘Tis the season — grilling season!

Summer is the most glorious time to fire it up and tend to some beautiful cuts of meat.

BUT, it can be not so pleasurable if you don’t know what you’re doing.

If you’re a newbie or just need a little refresher, here’s a quick Grilling 101 course for your summertime enjoyment…

1. Selecting the best cut for the job depends on what you’re going for. Meaty and hearty or buttery tender? Make your cut decision after perusing this lesson on steak cuts and you won’t go wrong.
2. Season it early. Don’t just throw a piece of meat on the grill naked. The art of seasoning is important. Read about its artistry and other steak grilling tips from a chef here.
3. Searing your steak is very important. But don’t just take it from me. Check out these steak grilling videos from the experts.

After you’ve read these lessons and watched the videos, you should ace the true test — grilling a steak that passes with flying colors!

National Filet Mignon Day – The day we celebrate the tender, succulent filet mignon.

Why isn’t there a filet mignon MONTH or YEAR? Just asking.

To honor this day properly we’ve just gotta cook some fabulous filet mignon meals. These recipes for Filet Mignon should help us do just that.

And these are my five suggestions for this BIG day:

1. Filet Poele – using a butter braising technique, this one is so, so flavorful!
2. Grilled Filet with Avocado Beurre Blanc – a beautiful sauce accompaniment.
3. Spice Rubbed Filet – you know, to spice it up a bit!
4. Steak Tartare – looking to walk on the wild side? This is a no-cook option!
5. Thai Firecracker Filet – goes great with Oriental cole slaw!

Too bad this day doesn’t come around every week. I could go on and on!!!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

You’re grilling out at the beach!

Fun times!

What are you going to take?

• Well, if there’s not already a grill set up down there, you’ll need a GRILL!
• Plus, all the accompaniments — charcoal, lighter, etc. — whatever heat source it requires.
• Then, I suggest something customizable like the KABOBS above or BURGERS.
• You can marinate or season either before bringing them onto the sand and then just pop them onto the grill when you’re ready.
• Everyone can create exactly the kabob or burger they like with the fixings you provide. So offer plenty.
• You’ll need a CLEAN PLATTER to serve your main entree on, plus plates for each person.
• Ensure that all of your serving trays and plastic tubs are COVERED or coverable. There are lot of flying critters out there by the water and we don’t want them feasting on your beautiful meal.
• And aside from all the things we know you’ll remember (sides, utensils, condiments) make sure to bring lots and lots of BEVERAGES. A large quantity and a large variety. The beach is dehydrating so bring tons of liquid!

Summer goes by fast, so have a wonderful time on your next beach cookout — and when you’re prepared it’s easy as pie!