11 Things to Try If Your Grilling Has Become Mundane

Some people love the repetitive routines associated with grilling, but if you spend enough time grilling, and you fail to experiment, you might end up feeling that your outdoor cooking processes have become mundane. 

What steps should you take to spice up your outdoor grilling, challenge yourself, and eventually enjoy more satisfying dishes?

What to Try If Your Grilling Has Become Mundane

These acquisitions, strategies, and approaches could be exactly what you need to break out of that rut and enjoy grilling again:

1. A new pellet grill. If you’re not sure what else to do with your current grill, consider purchasing a new piece of equipment that allows you to do more. For example, you could choose to buy a pellet grill.A pellet grill has some similarities with both grills and smokers, but it’s a functionally unique addition to your backyard. You can smoke meat over a long term, experiment with new recipes, or prepare some of your favorites using a new piece of equipment.
2. Upgraded equipment. You can also upgrade other pieces of equipment, or get new additions for your existing tools. For example, you could install a side burner on your grill or invest in a full outdoor kitchen if you have the budget for it. If you’re working with more limited funds, don’t worry; even simple acquisitions like a new meat thermometer or a grill net could instantly spice up your preparation style.
3. Different fuel. You might feel like a diehard loyalist for one type of grilling fuel, but if you’re feeling a bit bored, it’s worth trying something new. If you’re committed to using wood chips or pellets, you can get different flavors like pecan, apple, or hickory. And if you’re interested in branching out more, you could try grilling with equipment that uses fuel like propane, electricity, or natural gas.
4. New dishes. An easy way to make grilling more exciting is to try a wider variety of different dishes. If you’re preparing meats, you can experiment with totally new and exotic meats or prepare classic meats with new dry rubs or marinades. And don’t forget thatgrilling isn’t just about meat! You can grill a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and side dishes for you and your guests to enjoy. There is no shortage of recipes to try, and you can find them practically anywhere on the internet.
5. New techniques. Depending on your level of expertise, there are probably at least a handful of core grilling techniques that you haven’t tried or haven’t mastered. For example, do you know the perfect way to sear an ahi tuna steak?
6. Different sides. Maybe it’s not grilling itself that has become mundane; maybe it’s your overall spread of foods. If you suspect that this might be the case, try experimenting with different sides for all your favorite grilling dishes.
7. Theme nights. You can also try experimenting with theme nights. You can choose a theme related to a specific cuisine or cooking style, or choose something more abstract, like “bright flavors.” Try to make many different foods that fit the theme and decorate accordingly.
8. Competitions.Not everyone loves competition, but if you have a competitive streak in you, consider going head-to-head with other grilling enthusiasts or members of your family. Everyone can prepare their favorite signature dishes, and you can have a panel of judges decide who did the best job.
9. Social occasions. Grilling is much more fun when you’re surrounded by people you know and love, so consider hosting more events and inviting more people. Most people are enthusiastic about attending cookouts, so you should have no trouble with participation and attendance.
10. A fresh environment. If you’re chronically bored with grilling, it might be because of the overall environment and atmosphere. If your grill is portable, consider taking it to the beach, a local park, or anywhere else you’re allowed to use it. And if you don’t have a portable grill, this could be the perfect excuse to get one.
11. Outside inspiration. Finally, consider getting some outside inspiration. Watch grilling experts on YouTube, talk to other grilling enthusiasts you know, and visit more local restaurants to get a feel for what great chefs are cooking. You never know what your creative brain will cook up after being exposed to people like this.

Keeping It Fresh

No matter how passionate you are about grilling, if you keep doing the same things over and over, it’s only a matter of time before they feel stale and routine. The antidote to this problem is making a deliberate, concentrated effort to keep things fresh. As we’ve already seen, there are many ways that you can do this, from buying new tools and equipment to experimenting with new recipes; the point is you have to do something to shake things up every once in a while.

As for how often you introduce new things or disrupt the monotony, that depends on you. For some people, a novel experience once a month is plenty, but for others, there needs to be a steady stream of new and interesting things to explore to feel full satisfaction. Either way, a bit of proactive planning and open mindedness goes a long way to keeping this hobby exciting.