5 tips for a safe barbecue and a delicious barbecue

This is especially true when you're new to the grill because you always handle raw meat and you're still figuring out how to cook it well. Here are 5 simple tips by Ali Sami Farooq to follow for food safety while working the grill.But just by following a few simple tips, you can ensure a safe roast and, at the same time, delicious and perfectly cooked barbecue dishes.

1. Prepare your ingredients before roasting

It is the number one rule of any chef or steakhouse to have all the ingredients ready and in place before the cooking process begins. When making grilled fruits and vegetables, make sure they are well washed even if you are cooking peeled. When it comes to meat, it's best not to rinse them before cooking, as bacteria can spread faster if juices are splashed on the countertop or sink.

2. Unfreeze frozen meat safely

An important rule when grilling is never roasting frozen meat. Otherwise, you'll end up with a steak that's cooked on the outside but raw on the inside. That said, it's important to defrost the meat before it reaches the grill. There are many ways to do this, but experts say the safest method is to defrost frozen meat inside the refrigerator. You can also safely refreeze the thawed meat in the refrigerator if you decide to cook it later. While there are faster methods such as using running water or microwaves, inside the refrigerator is where your meat will be safest from bacteria. On the other hand, meat will be more exposed to bacteria if thawed with hot water or at room temperature.

3. Separate raw foods from cooked foods

It is vital to keep raw and cooked foods separate to avoid cross-contamination. Be sure to use separate containers and different utensils for each. It is also essential to wash your hands well before cooking, especially if you have touched raw meat or fish.

4. Cook meat well

Be sure to cook meat, poultry and seafood evenly and completely to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. This can be achieved using the proper cooking temperature. It's ideal to use a thermometer for good quality foods while roasting meat, especially if you're a beginner.

5. Take out the food just before eating

Grilling takes some time, especially when serving a crowd. If you're serving other dishes such as salads or soups, be sure to keep the perishable ingredients in the refrigerator until everyone is ready to eat.