Nutrition
Barbecue Basics
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Summer is here and that means many people have started to clean off their barbecues to enjoy more grilled meals. Regardless of the type of food you choose to grill, it is important to be aware that grilling food at high temperatures (to the point where they burn!) can produce unhealthy chemicals. But this doesn’t mean you need to put your barbecue away!
DID YOU KNOW: Grilling food at high temperature to the point where they burn can produce unhealthy chemicals. Check out the tips below to help you make delicious and nutritious food on the grill!
Check out the tips below to enjoy healthier BBQ meals:
- Grill on low for longer: this limits the possibility of exposing the food to potentially harmful chemicals from the smoke.
- Watch the sugar: many barbecue sauces contain a lot of sugar. Read the ingredients and choose a low-sugar option.
- Grill colourful vegetables: drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, then place on grill for 5-10 minutes per side. This provides a dose of healthy nutrients and adds to the 5-8 vegetables we aim to eat in a day.
- Trim away: buy skinless meat and trim the fat off before grilling to limit fat intake.
- Check the temperature: use a thermometer. Red meat should be cooked to 160°F and chicken to 165°F. Make sure to place the thermometer in the thickest part of the meat.
- Marinate the meat: marinade protects the meat, keeping the flames from touching it. It also adds a ton of flavour.
Click on the PDF to access the Cajun Dry Rub Recipe!
