Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, is just around the corner. Nothing screams summer more than a BBQ in the backyard with your friends and family. We recently sat down with Chef Jeremy Abbey, Culinary Director of Dorsey Schools’ Waterford-Pontiac Campus to talk about grilling and some of his favorite BBQ dishes to fire up.

Gas or charcoal grill, and why?

If you are looking for speed and consistency, gas is the way to go. If you don’t mind keeping a close eye on your BBQ and have the time to wait for the perfect temperature, charcoal is the way. Charcoal provides a unique flavor that can’t be matched. There are some ways to impart more flavor when using gas, but that’s another blog.

What are some great seasonal/local vegetables that are great on the grill for the summer?

Asparagus is at its peak right now and is amazing on the grill. Scallions and other spring variety of onions work great on the grill. Throughout the summer, I can’t think of any vegetable that isn’t great on the BBQ!

Many of us will be grilling up burgers on Memorial Day. What are some tips or your secret to a perfectly tasty/juicy burger?

When cooking meat on the grill, especially burgers, people tend to want to rush the process. Don’t be afraid to turn the heat down on the grill and have patience. Ideally, only flip the burger once to retain as much moisture as you can in the meat.

What is the most common mistake grillers make at BBQs?

I see a lot of people cooking with too high of heat and flipping the grilled items too often.

Is grilling covered in the curriculum of the Culinary Arts program at Dorsey Schools?

Not only do we cover grilling in our program – we teach our students about the history of BBQ and the growth of its popularity. We also dive into smoking meats and other great items for the perfect BBQ.

What will you grilling or barbecuing this Memorial Day weekend?

I’m sure I will be cooking peak-of-the-season vegetables and people love my ribs.

What will you grilling or barbecuing this Memorial Day weekend?

I’m sure I will be cooking peak-of-the-season vegetables and people love my ribs.

If you are interested in taking your ‘grilling’ culinary skills to the professional level, check out Dorsey Schools’ Culinary Arts Diploma Program at our Waterford-Pontiac and Roseville campus locations. Students of this program have the opportunity to acquire the experience and the hands-on training that are needed to gain the competitive and creative edge in the development of their culinary career.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the programs, and other important information, please visit our website at https://www.dorsey.edu/disclosures.php