GRILLING TIPS FROM OUR CHEF

Summer is here, and with that comes the sizzle of steaks on the grill. There’s nothing that symbolizes summer and warm weather more than a barbeque. But why settle for flat or burned burgers as well as the overcooked sides that too often go hand in hand with cookouts each year? Upgrade your summer barbeque into a truly gastronomic experience.

As you gear up for the season, get your grilling inspiration from our luxury hotel in Puerto Rico. The chefs here take great care in putting together articulately designed and flavorful grilled masterpieces. Our favorites at the 1919 restaurant at the Condado hotel include our ‘Grilled Organic Short Ribs’ and ‘Lamb Loin’. We use only the best, and most succulent meats, and our experienced chefs cook them to perfection. With a little guidance, you can recreate the meals sent out of the Condado hotel kitchens and enjoy your new expertise with friends and family at home.

Here are some tips from the Executive Chef Juan José Cuevas that will turn any simple barbeque into a meal to remember:

1. Skewer small pieces of meat. This is helpful so that you can easily turn them and prevent the pieces from falling through the grill.
2. Use a bouquet of herb such as rosemary, thyme, sage as a brush for meat or fish. This adds extra flavor and doubles as a brush.
3. Don’t move your meat too many times. You want to let the meat settle and not disturb the juiciness as you’re cooking.
4. If using large pieces of meat, give them time to rest before cutting it. By doing this, you ensure all the juices don't run out when slicing.
5. Grill vegetables whole, such a calabaza or eggplant. This gives a pleasant smokiness aroma to the vegetables.
6. No barbecuing under trees. This could be the most important rule, considering the open flames coming from grills.
7. Take your steak out of the fridge about 15 minutes before grilling. By doing this, you bring the steak to room temperature before you begin cooking it.
8. Grill fish over cedar plank. This will infuse the fish with a rich smoky aroma.

By following these tips, you’ll master grilling for the summer. These are measures that our executive chefs at the Condado hotel stick to, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying a meal at the 1919 Restaurant, you’ll understand why. The menu can be found by clicking here. For more information on the menu, or to hear about what else we offer at our luxury hotel in Puerto Rico, please give us a call at 1-787-721-5500. We look forward to hearing from you.