Outdoor Cooking '09

[dar512]

Originally Posted by bbro

Stupid question though - when do you leave the lid on?

There's differences of opinion on that question. For stuff that doesn't go over the coals, you definitely need the cover on most of the time. Otherwise, it won't get hot enough.

I generally leave the lid on unless I'm actually doing something on the grill. It keeps the flames down and makes the temperature more consistent. Some people don't like that for steaks as it reduces the charring. I compromise for steaks by leaving the lid off for the last five minutes or so.

For the stuff you're doing I would leave the lid on unless you actually need to turn something etc.

If you are going to put the lid on, all the vents should be wide open for grilling. BBQ is a different matter.