Savor the Sizzle: Grilling Around the Globe

As grilling season kicks into high gear, bold international flavors are in, and the vibrant cuisines of Southeast Asia and the Caribbean are taking center stage. Drawing on a rich tapestry of spices, herbs and sauces, these regions offer a tantalizing array of flavors that will transport your taste buds to far-flung lands. So, fire up the grill, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Caribbean and Southeast Asian-inspired recipes.

Caribbean: Tropical Tastes, Scintillating Spice
Caribbean cuisine celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage, drawing on influences from Latin America, Africa, Europe, and the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean Islands. Like the pace of life on the islands, Caribbean grilling is done low and slow – between 225° to 300° for an extended period of time. The lower temperature and longer cooking time allow for a gradual rendering of fats, resulting in a more moist and tender texture, which makes this method shine for larger cuts of meat such as brisket, ribs and pork shoulder. The prolonged exposure to smoke also adds a distinct smoky flavor.

Caribbean food is defined by bold and intense flavors. And from fiery scotch bonnet peppers to tangy citrus fruits, fresh, local ingredients are paramount. Prominent spices in Caribbean cuisine include allspice, nutmeg
and cinnamon.

One dish that captures the essence of this cooking style is Caribbean Steak with Mango Salsa. The steak is prepared with the Caribbean’s signature jerk seasoning, then grilled to juicy perfection. Ambitious foodies can make their own jerk – typically a mixture of allspice, scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger and Scotch bonnets – or if time is a factor, just buy some off the shelf.

Spicy Peel-and-Eat Shrimp is a celebration of the Caribbean’s abundant seafood and love for bold spices, and it’s as easy as it is flavorful. Wild caught shell-on Argentinian shrimp are cooked in a blend of spiced rum, butter, agave nectar and garlic jalapeño seasoning, making it rich yet bright with a spicy-sweet kick. Garnish with pepper, thyme and fresh lime wedges, and you’ll practically hear the ocean waves gently washing over a white sand beach.

Southeast Asia: A Dance of Fire and Spice
At the heart of Southeast Asian cuisine lies the art of balance, where the delicate interplay of sweet, sour, salty and spicy combine to create an unmistakable flavor profile. And when it comes to grilling, the preferred approach in this part of the world is hot, hot, hot. The high heat sears the exterior of the food, creating a caramelized crust while locking in the natural juices and flavors. Particularly effective for smaller cuts of meat, like steaks, chops and poultry breasts, high-heat grilling results in a shorter cooking time, which helps retain a juicy and tender interior. Signature ingredients in Southeast Asia include lots of fresh veggies and fruits like coconut and citrus and the liberal use of fresh, aromatic herbs and spices that add depth to every dish – think ginger, basil, chiles and turmeric, to name a few.

Take a bite of a classic Thai dish like Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Pad Thai Noodle Salad and you are greeted with a medley of grilled chicken, tender rice noodles, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a sweet and savory dressing. The result is a harmonious marriage of flavors and textures, with the smoky notes from the grilled chicken perfectly complementing the tangy dressing.

A Thai Peanut Butter Burger is a heartier option that offers a flavor-packed twist on a cookout staple. Featuring a perfectly seasoned ground beef patty with a crunchy, tangy-hot coleslaw and a generous smear of peanut butter between the soft, chewy goodness of a pretzel bun.