With the start of each new year comes a renewed sense of hope, and even a few changes. By the time January 1 rolls around, most of us have a list of our top New Year’s resolutions, and we do our best to stick to them for the whole year… or at least the whole month. But, as we all know, breaking our resolutions can be a lot easier than abiding by them. Luckily for you, we’ve got a few simple, grill-inspired New Year’s resolutions that will make your life a lot easier. So, here’s to the new year and to grill-themed resolutions that will last a lifetime.
Resolution 1: Eating Healthier
We often make the commitment to eat healthier at the start of the new year. We stock up on groceries, use the latest and greatest meal plan delivery service, and even take up one of the trendy diets to help us reach our goals. But what if you could eat healthier just by incorporating one thing into your routine? Your grill can be forgotten during the winter months, but it can prove to be a better alternative than any of those fads you see on television. We’re big fans of “wintercues” – the act of firing up the grill and making delicious food during the coldest months of the years. There are plenty of reasons to “wintercue” this year, and eating healthier is one of the most important reasons. It’s no secret that grilled foods are tasty, but they are also lower in fat and calories than most fried foods. Because fried foods often require a batter to coat your food, the fat is trapped inside and soaks into whatever it is that you’re frying. However, when grilling, high heat from your grill causes some of the grease and fat to drip off the food. This results in much healthier foods and even allows you to eat more portions when you’re hungry. Try using your grill more often this year. We’re sure you won’t regret it!
Resolution 2: Budgeting
How many times have you said, “I’m not going to eat out as much,” and made sure you stuck to that goal? We’re all guilty of heading to our favorite restaurant, or ordering delivery when we have plenty of food at home. Over time, this can have a large impact on your budget and limit your spending on other necessities. One way to save money this year is budgeting a set amount for groceries and eating only the food that you prepare at home. Apart from the fact that delivery and takeout food can be expensive, it can also be detrimental to your health. By making food at home, you keep a lot more money in your wallet, and save a few extra calories as well. One way to ensure you eat what’s in your fridge is by making it fun to cook. We recommend ditching those microwaved T.V. dinners in exchange for some fresh foods made right on the grill. For just the cost of a tank refill or exchange, you can make delicious meals for weeks and save your money for that dream vacation you’ve always wanted. So fire up that grill and get to saving!
Resolution 3: Learn a New Skill
As the days go by, we often become very routine-driven. We do our laundry on the same day, we grocery shop at the same stores, and we even order the same food and drinks when we go to our favorite restaurants. But gone are the days of doing the same old song and dance. This year, make it a resolution to do new things and learn new skills. Start with things that interest you that you previously may not have had the time for. Perhaps you bought a few golf clubs and haven’t gotten out on the links just yet. Or maybe you’ve considered trying your hand at photography. Whatever it is, this is the year to do it! Even if you’d consider yourself an expert in something, there might be different ways to complete the task. Take grilling for example. If you’re already passionate about making delicious foods in the comfort of your backyard or patio, then you can take it up a notch and introduce elements you don’t often use. Try different rubs and seasonings, or even new dishes which you can find on our recipes page. Test out something new this year and let us know what skills you learn!
Resolution 4: Spend More Time with Friends and Family
Working around schedules can be difficult, especially if you’re busy yourself. But hanging out with friends and family doesn’t have to be time-consuming. For those with other commitments, there are a few different ways to get the most out of your quality time with your loved ones. When we visit with friends and family, the first thing we often do is catch up over a delicious meal. Rather than making one or two people do all the cooking in the kitchen, take advantage of your grill and your outdoor space. Even the most experienced of grill masters could use the extra hands when grilling. Whether its slicing and dicing veggies, or having a meat thermometer handy, incorporating friends and family in the grilling process will allow everyone to enjoy their tasty food even more!
Resolution 5: Start Smoking!
Most people might choose to stop smoking as a New Year’s resolution, but when it comes to grilling, this is the year to start! Smoking your food on the grill adds a rich, unique taste that can’t be replicated through anything else. Check out one of our favorite recipes for cooking low and slow on a gas grill – Beef Brisket! All you need is a smoker box and wood chips, and you’ll soon be on your way to one of the best meals you’ve ever grilled. There are several types of wood chips that give off different flavors, so be sure to check out our wood smoking guide for all the details, and let us know which one is your favorite!
The key to any resolution is sticking with it through the ups and downs. Grilling may not be the solution to all the world’s problems, but these resolutions will certainly help you meet your goals this year!