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Micro-grilling saves time while giving fine charcoal grilled flavor to foods. Here are some tips for fast, safe micro-grilling.

The microwave

– Cook chicken thoroughly in the microwave, then put it on the grill for about 10 minutes for flavor and browning.

– To keep them tender, cook spareribs only partially in the microwave, then finish them on the grill.

– Microwave chicken and vegetables a day ahead and store in the refrigerator.

– Use the same dish to marinate and microwave foods.

– Quick grilling foods such as fish fillets and steaks do not need to be microwaved first.

– To avoid possible health problems, don`t let warm food sit at room temperature for any length of time.

The grill

– Because you grill for a shorter time, you need less charcoal for micro- grilling.

– It takes 30 to 40 minutes to heat two dozen coals. This is enough coals for two chickens.

– To tell the temperature of the coals, use an oven thermometer placed in the center of the coals. Cover grill and take reading after 10 minutes. A medium-hot grill is 350 degrees.

– Before placing any food on it, heat the grill grate by placing it over hot coals, then lightly oil the grate so food doesn`t stick.

– While the coals are still hot, grill extra foods-particularly vegetables-to save for lunches or other dinners.

Foods on the grill

– Chicken parts are best grilled uncovered to allow pieces to crisp.

– Larger pieces, such as whole Cornish hens, first are grilled covered to help heat and flavor penetrate, then are uncovered to promote crisping.

– Skin is left on chicken pieces to keep the meat moist and to avoid sticking to the grill.

– When using barbecue sauce on the grill, wait until the coals have cooled to medium-hot. Otherwise, the sauce coating may burn.

– Sauces and marinades with a high sugar content tend to burn quickly on the grill. When using such sauces, it is best to use a covered grill or the indirect method of grilling where coals are pushed to the side and a drip guard is placed under the food.

– Start food on the grill by putting the most attractive side down first

(skin side, not bone side, for a chicken breast or cut side for an onion). This will give you nice grill marks after you turn the food once.