The traditional tailgating season is here and in full effect.
Before finding your place in the stands under the Friday night lights or Sunday afternoon sun, there's nothing like showing up with a full stomach. At the very least, it saves you a trip to the concession stand and from paying stadium prices for food.
While tailgating has evolved to become a much more involved event, the heart of the pregame festivities still remains cooking a meal outdoors to enjoy with friends, family, and fellow fans.
For those circling the wagons, the TG Series portable tailgate grill is a must-have. With tailgating in its DNA, the TG lets you take your game day gathering to the next level.
To get peak performance from your TG (even when it's not game day) we've compiled a list of do's and don't's to help you avoid making any technical fouls.
Hot Take: The TG Series Grill
The TG Series Portable Grill is a tailgater's best friend.
While it's the smallest and most mobile member of the Smokin' Ugly family, don't let its size fool you.
Made from robust stainless steel and weighing in at 54 lbs, this portable grill is made to last. Unlike its contemporaries, which are often made with thinner steel, you'll be cooking on your TG Series grill for years to come. It's easily assembled with minimal tools and ready to bring to your tailgate.
What do TG users love most about this portable grill?
That's hard to nail down to one thing, as there are a few "favorite parts" about the TG that we regularly hear:
- A versatile mini grill, the TG is easily converted from grill to griddle to pizza oven. Indeed, it's a triple threat!
- Integrated motion control technology upgrades lid management. Outfitted with an adjustable spring-assist hinge, the TG's lid can be set and left in any position within its range of motion without worry that it will come crashing down. In other words, you'll always have two hands free when cooking on the grill.
- While this isn't the kind of grill you'd go on a 20-mile hike with, it's one that travels well and lets you enjoy a tailgate easily.
- The TG is manufactured here in America – enough said!
Have TG, Will Tailgate | Do's & Don't's for
There's nothing quite like the camaraderie and excitement of gameday tailgating. And with the TG Series Portable Grill, you'll be well-equipped to cook up a storm for your fellow fans.
But before you fire up the grill and start cooking, here are some do's and don'ts for game day grilling:
TG Series Portable Tailgating Grill Do’s
With the TG in your repertoire, it's easy to have a tailgate that others will quickly notice. With your TG, be sure to:
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Clean it ahead of time: Before heading out, give your portable tailgate grill a thorough cleaning. In fact, the best time to clean your TG is right after you last cooked on it. That means clearing out the charcoal basket, cleaning the grill grate or griddle surface, and giving it a solid once-over with a cleaning rag (hot, soapy water should suffice as a cleaning agent)
A clean grill prevents old food residues from affecting the taste of your fresh tailgate BBQ grill creations. This step also reduces the risk of flare-ups, ensuring a safer cooking experience. By starting with a spotless grill, you'll enhance the flavor of your food and impress your fellow tailgaters with your grilling skills.
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Have your food prepped and ready to go: Cooking at a tailgate is a far cry from cooking in your kitchen at home. Just like your favorite team being ready to put on a show on the playing field, preparation is key for a successful tailgating experience. Cut vegetables, marinate meats, and have all your essentials packed in advance. When you arrive at the tailgate, you'll be ready to fire up the grill for tailgating without any delays. This efficiency allows you to focus on cooking and enjoying the game day atmosphere instead of scrambling to get everything organized.
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Give yourself ample time to start your coals & cook: For the best tailgate grill experience, start your coals early to ensure they reach the optimal cooking temperature. Portable charcoal grills require a bit of patience, but the payoff is worth it. Allowing the coals to heat up properly ensures even cooking, resulting in delicious, perfectly grilled food.
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Set up a safe grilling area: We can't stress this one enough. Safety always comes first when using a portable tailgate grill. Choose a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials. Keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby to quickly address any flare-ups. Make sure those attending your tailgate are well aware of where you're cooking and keep a safe distance.
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Give yourself ample time to enjoy your meal: Tailgating is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Plan your cooking timeline so you have plenty of time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your meal. Just like during an event you're hosting at home, no one wants to be stuck in the kitchen and miss all the festivities. This allows you to savor the flavors of your freshly grilled dishes and soak in the game day excitement with friends and family, creating a memorable tailgating experience.
TG Series Portable Tailgating Grill Don't's
Your pregame festivities shouldn't put a damper on the rest of your gameday experience. When putting your TG to work:
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Don't overload the grill: While the TG has an approximate 17” x14.5” grill grate and a 14” x 13” griddle, it's still important to remember the amount of cooking real estate that's available. Avoid overcrowding your TG grill with too much food. Overloading can restrict airflow, resulting in uneven cooking and potentially ruining your meal. Instead, grill in batches if necessary, allowing for better heat distribution and ensuring each item gets that perfect sear.
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Don't overload charcoal: To our last don't, the same applies to your heat source. Using too much charcoal can cause excessive heat, making it difficult to control the cooking temperature on your portable tailgate grill. Stick to the recommended amount for your grill size to maintain optimal cooking conditions and prevent flare-ups.
Further reading: What Charcoal Should I Use? + 6 "How to" TG Series Portable Grill FAQs
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Don't use lighter fluid: Lighter fluid can leave a chemical taste on your food and is a potential safety hazard. Opt for a safer and more eco-friendly option like a charcoal chimney starter. It’s an effective way to get your coals going without compromising the flavor of your tailgate BBQ grill dishes.
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Don't forget safety precautions: Again: always prioritize safety when using your tailgate grill. Set up on a stable surface away from flammable materials and keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby. These precautions help prevent accidents and ensure a fun and safe tailgating experience.
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Don't go to the game and leave it with hot coals: Never leave your grill unattended with hot coals. Before heading into the game, make sure the coals are fully extinguished.
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Don't forget grilling gear: Bring all the necessary grilling accessories and gear for a smooth experience. Essential items include grilling utensils, paper towels, a cutting board, and a table for prep. A fire starter is also handy for safely lighting your coals without lighter fluid.
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Don't overcomplicate things: You're there to have fun, not slave over a hot stove: Tailgating should be a fun and social experience. Keep your menu simple and manageable, allowing you to enjoy the event without feeling like you're stuck behind the grill. The goal is to have a great time with friends and family while enjoying delicious food.
Tailgate Like a Pro with the TG Series Portable Grill
Taking your tailgating experience to the next level is all about having the right equipment and knowing how to use it. With the TG Series Portable Grill, you'll be well on your way to hosting a winning tailgate for every game.
What Can You Cook on a TG?
Plenty! Download our cookbook for the TG Series Portable Grill:
