At a barbecue at my friend's, I couldn't help but notice they soaked the wooden skewers before grilling. What's the point of that?

During a recent barbecue at my friend's house, I became intrigued by one of the preparation steps they took before putting any meat on the grill. While I was familiar with most of the barbecue rituals, one particular practice caught my attention: they were carefully soaking wooden skewers in water before threading pieces of meat and vegetables onto them. This prompted me to investigate why this additional, seemingly minor step was part of their grilling routine.

What I discovered was a combination of safety, practicality, and culinary technique that enhances the grilling process. In this exploration, we'll discuss the reasoning and benefits behind soaking wooden skewers before they are exposed to the intense heat of the grill.

Here are reasons why it's a good practice to soak wooden skewers before grilling:

1. Prevents Burning

Wood is, naturally, highly flammable. When placed on a hot grill, dry wooden skewers can catch fire or char excessively, which can impart a burnt flavor onto the food. Soaking the skewers in water for at least 20 to 30 minutes prior to grilling helps to saturate the wood with moisture, making it more resistant to the flames and heat. This means your skewers are less likely to burn, ensuring that your food remains the star of the show.

2. Ensures Even Cooking

When skewers don't burn or char on the grill, they contribute to a more even cooking process for the skewered food. Waterlogged skewers transfer less heat than dry ones, which can help prevent the parts of food touching the skewers from cooking too fast. This is particularly useful for items that require longer cooking times, allowing everything to cook through properly without charring the edges.

3. Improves Safety

A flaming skewer can present a safety hazard. If a skewer were to catch fire, it could not only ruin the food but also pose a risk of injury to anyone tending the grill. By soaking the skewers, you reduce the likelihood of flare-ups and unforeseen accidents, making the grilling experience safer for everyone involved.

4. Enhances Presentation

We eat with our eyes first and presentation is key. Soaked skewers that are less likely to burn keep your kebabs looking appetizing and professional. Nobody wants to see (or eat) kebabs with charred stick ends sticking out of them.

5. Prevents Sticking

While it may not be the primary purpose, water-soaked skewers tend to stick less to the grill, making it easier to turn the kebabs and maintain their integrity as you grill them to perfection.

Each of these points underscores the value of taking a little extra time to prepare your skewers properly. Whether you're an avid griller or an occasional barbecue enthusiast, adopting this simple precautionary measure can elevate your grilling game, resulting in better cooked, better tasting, and safer barbecue feasts. Next time you fire up the grill, remember to spare a thought – and some water – for your wooden skewers. Your taste buds, and your guests, will thank you.