As we find ourselves settling into the warmer months of the year, that urge to hold a barbecue might make itself known. It goes without saying that not only is this a time for friends and family to gather but for the best food to be made as well. However, the next time you decide to hold a cookout, think about the healthier suggestions that can be taken. After all, a barbecue can be healthy as well, right?
As we find ourselves settling into the warmer months of the year, that urge to hold a barbecue might make itself known. It goes without saying that not only is this a time for friends and family to gather but for the best food to be made as well. However, the next time you decide to hold a cookout, think about the healthier suggestions that can be taken. After all, a barbecue can be healthy as well, right?
You might ask yourself, “How can a barbecue, which consists of mostly meat, possibly be healthy?” There are actually a couple of ways to make sure that your next grilling holds not only tasty benefits but healthful ones as well. Here are 3 ways to ensure that your next barbecue will be a healthy one.
1. Keep the Temperature Down
While this might sound like a strange tip to offer those who love to barbecue, the heat in which you set your barbecue at can actually be quite instrumental in the food you create. From what I have seen, foods that are grilled at higher temperatures usually entail higher levels of heterocyclic amines. HCAs are carcinogenic components that form when certain meats like beef and pork are heated at higher temperatures. It’s been said that high levels of exposure to HCAs can cause cancer in animals but whether they can do the same for humans is unclear. Whatever the case may be, if you want to stay safe, be mindful of how hot your grill is while you’re cooking.
2. Incorporate a Few Veggies
If there’s one result that can be as just as tasty as meat fresh off of the grill, it has to be barbecued vegetables. When you are able to grill corn, peppers, or zucchini, you are not only able to have better-tasting options outside of meat but medical authorities like Demetrios Gabriel can tell you that they contain far fewer calories as well. One of the best things about barbecued vegetables is that they can be used in a number of ways. While it’s easy enough for these particular foods to be eaten on their own, some cooks might get creative and make shish kebabs from both the veggies and the meat. Add a few greens and other vegetables if you are interested in expanding your grill-out.
3. Marinades Are Your Best Friends
The American Institution for Cancer Research reported that marinating grilled meat, for about a half hour or so, can lower the risk of HCAs being seen. While the reasons for this aren’t exactly clear, what is clear is that marinades have a positive impact on the animal products that are common at barbecues. However, what are some of the healthiest types that can be brought to the forefront? One of the best choices for cooks is balsamic, which adds just enough sweetness to the meat without overpowering it. In addition, it contains far less sugar than one would probably expect. Keep in mind that this is just one of several examples, so do not feel afraid to play around with different choices.