Top 4 Grilling Trends That Are Gaining Popularity in 2023

Grilling over a live fire is not new. This is exactly how early civilizations made protein more palatable and safer to eat. Although the invention of grilling occurred approximately 780,000 years ago, recipes involving cooking over fire should not remain in the dark ages.

In a 2023 grilling trend report, cookbook authors, top chefs, and pitmasters who have their fingers on the pulse of the grilling scene are included. There are also different techniques and equipment that can be used.

David Guas, the author of Grill Nation and owner of Bayou Bakery, Coffee & Eatery in Arlington, Virginia, predicts that those who are keeping a close eye on their grocery budget, especially in light of recent food prices, will be more motivated to experiment with less popular cuts of meat that can be proven to be more cost-effective. From a beef perspective, this can include less prized cuts from chuck to flaps or tips. This is a great time to get to know your local butcher, who can give you a piece of advice on new cuts without breaking the bank.

Today’s cooks are aware that there is more to the grill than burgers and hot dogs. The breath of flame can also enhance the flavor of vegetables and fruits. Research shows that approximately 35% of Americans are making a conscious effort to eat less meat. Matt Horn, pitmaster, chef, and owner of Horn Barbecue, Kowbird, and Matty’s Old Fashioned in Oakland, California, observes that a growing number of people are barbecuing vegetables. Horn says that large mushroom caps and summer squash planks are especially popular and delicious when being grilled over grates, but he plans to grill a wide variety of fruits and vegetables over live fires at his Horn Barbecue.

In the past couple of generations, butter has gotten nearly all of the glory as a ubiquitous grilling menu component to spread on cornbread or toast, brush over corn on the cob, and top a steak just before serving. While those golden sticks will never go out of style, chefs predict that 2023 will mark the return of the mayonnaise as a grilling line-up. Guas shares that he is looking forward to brushing it on some fresh corn before grilling it this summer. Mayonnaise is also an excellent menu component for seasoning blends to proteins and vegetables. You can use it in marinades, distribute it on barbecue sandwiches, or transform it into aioli for use as a condiment, dip, or dressing.