Who doesn’t love a good grilled steak or even veggie kabob? It’s something about a grill that makes even the most hesitant cook step up and want to give it a try. But right now, 2016 is off to a very frigid start with an epic snowstorm that has left much of the East Coast buried.
Even if you aren’t contending with record snow drifts, chances are you don’t want to get chilly outside with your grill as the only heat source. Here are seven options for cooking indoors this winter that are sure to cure the winter blues.
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Cast iron grill pan
The heavy cast iron grill pan is an indispensable tool for your kitchen arsenal. Just be sure to season the pan properly based on the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, wipe down the pan before each use with canola oil.
Oven grilling
The oven isn’t just for baking. You can place the rack on the bottom of your oven and then put your pan on that rack. In order to get the right temperature, you are going to want to crank it up to around 500 degrees. Then just cook as usual, but be sure to keep the oven door closed to trap in the heat.
Contact grills
These are some of the most common types of indoor grills you can find, especially the popular George Foreman line. The great thing about these grills is that they close down on top of the meat and grill both sides simultaneously so that you don’t have to flip it halfway through.
Indoor electric grills
Another variety is the indoor electric grill which is literally like a regular outdoor grill except that it plugs in and it draws the drippings away from the heating source so that it doesn’t produce much smoke, ideal for those in apartments or small kitchens.
Rotisseries
Another great alternative for grilling indoors is the rotisserie. These machines can cook whole chickens slowly and perfectly and still keep them juicy enough to satisfy the pickiest eater.
Slow-cooker
Never underestimate the power of the crockpot. If you are looking to make something like barbecue chicken, consider using the slow-cooker. You just have to be careful of how long and high you cook it, so that it doesn’t get dried out. But if you go “low and slow,” you will usually wind up with a savory dish.
Hot plates
These aren’t just reserved for those of us who had them hidden away in our dorm rooms for when we got tired of cafeteria food. A hot plate can provide a quick and easy alternative for those looking for a way to grill foods indoors.