BBQ Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know

Myth 1: You Need to Flip Meat Only Once

You’ve probably heard that you should only flip your meat once to keep the juices in. But guess what? That’s not true! 

Flipping your meat multiple times won’t dry it out. In fact, flipping it more often can help it cook evenly and prevent burning. 

So, if you’re keeping an eye on your grill, don’t be afraid to flip those burgers or steaks as often as needed to get that perfect sear.

Myth 2: Charcoal Grills Make Food Taste Better Than Gas

There’s a long-standing belief that charcoal grills give your food a better flavour than gas grills. 

While charcoal does add a bit of a smoky taste, the difference in flavour comes more from what you’re cooking than the fuel source. A high-quality gas BBQ can still give you amazing flavour. 

Plus, gas grills are often easier to control when it comes to temperature, making them a great option for consistent results.

Myth 3: Searing Meat Locks in Juices

The idea that searing meat locks in juices is one of the most common BBQ myths out there. 

While searing does create a nice crust on the outside, it doesn’t actually seal in moisture. Instead, searing gives your meat extra flavour through the Maillard reaction, which is a fancy way of saying it browns the meat. 

So, keep searing for the flavour boost, but don’t expect it to keep your meat juicier.

Myth 4: You Need to Soak Wood Chips Before Smoking

If you’ve ever used a smoker, you might have heard that you need to soak your wood chips in water before using them. 

The truth is, soaking wood chips doesn’t really add any benefit. 

Wet wood chips will take longer to start smoking and won’t give off as much smoke as dry ones. For the best smoke and flavour, use dry wood chips in your smoker.

Myth 5: You Can Only Cook Low and Slow for Tender Meat

While cooking low and slow is great for certain cuts like brisket or ribs, it’s not the only way to get tender meat. 

Some cuts, like steaks or chops, actually do better with high heat and a quicker cook. The key is knowing the right method for each type of meat. 

Low and slow isn’t always the answer—sometimes you just need that hot sear.

Myth 6: All BBQs Are Basically the Same

Not all BBQs are created equal. The quality of your BBQ makes a big difference in how your food cooks.

Cheaper grills often struggle with maintaining a consistent temperature, which can lead to uneven cooking. 

Investing in a high-quality BBQ, whether it’s charcoal, gas, or a pellet smoker, gives you more control and better results every time you cook.

Time to Level Up Your BBQ Game

Now that we’ve busted these BBQ myths, it’s time to focus on what really works. Whether you’re flipping your meat more often, cooking with a gas grill, or ditching the soaked wood chips, you’ll be on your way to mastering your BBQ skills.

Ready to upgrade your BBQ setup and get the most out of your grilling experience? At Turn Left @ Albuquerque, we stock a wide variety of top-quality BBQs, smokers, and accessories. Shop online today to explore our range and take your BBQ game to the next level!