Summer + fire + grill = delicious.  It seems like a simple equation, but there are so many ways grilling can go awry. To help you get ready for the dog days of summer, Wever’s BBQ sauce has compiled this handy-dandy list of do’s and don’ts for reference.

Top Do’s and Don’ts for Getting Your Grill on this Summer

DON’T: Douse your charcoal with lighter fluid.

When used sparingly, lighter fluid is useful, but if you totally soak your charcoal in it, not only does it take longer to burn off, but your food may end up tasting like a gas pipe.

DO: Remember less is more. All you need is a lighter, a tin can and some newspaper. Puncture a few holes in the bottom of the. Then, place a piece of crumpled newspaper at the bottom. Through the holes. light the exposed newspaper and then place on top of the coals. Once they’ve turned to ash and are red, you’re ready to start grilling.  

DON’T: Skewer food together that cooks at different paces.

Sure, your kebabs look Food Network worthy, but if you pair foods that cook at different speeds together, you will end up burnt veggies and raw chicken.

DO: When you shish kabab, first soak the stick in water. This way, it won’t catch on fire. Secondly, remember that food cook at different rates, so pair veggies with veggies and meat with meat. To add bold flavor, don’t forget to baste your favorites with Wever’s BBQ sauce!

And speaking of sauces…..

DON’T: Brush on your barbeque sauce until the very last minute.

Since barbeque sauce contains sugar, it will burn and char into a delicious crusty glaze that will get you rave reviews at your next cookout.

Insider Tip: This works great with Wever’s BBQ sauce on burgers, chicken and even shrimp!

DO: Maximize flavor by marinating overnight.

Marinade is one of the three flavor enhancer that you can add to protein ( veggies as well if you’re vegetarian). In addition, to whichever condiments, oils or spices, acidic marinades are best suited for tougher cuts of meat.

DON’T: Try to clean your grill with a sponge.

Even though you don’t want yesterday’s flavors stuck to your grill, you definitely don’t want pieces of sponge or soap residue! If your grill needs a thorough cleaning, you should detach the grate and soak it.

DO: Clean your grill with an onion.

Food sticks to woven metal, so if you want to get it squeaky clean, rub a halved onion across it after it is cool. The onion acts as an astringent and cuts through residual grease and fat.

Wever’s hickory smoked homemade BBQ sauce is sure to add a little kick to whatever you grill this summer. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready, set, grill!