Barbecue boards, what to take into account

If you’re a grilled meat enthusiast, you know that presentation and cutting can elevate or ruin the dining experience. Barbecue boards not only serve a practical purpose, but also add a professional and authentic touch to every service.

Whether in restaurants specializing in meat or in the homes of true “grill masters”, these tables are infallible allies.

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Noble and exotic woods: the perfect base for your grilled meats

The choice of wood influences the board’s durability, hygiene, and aesthetics

• Hard Maple and Oak: Hardwoods with antibacterial properties and a clear aesthetic that complements a variety of kitchen styles.
• Walnut: Known for its hardness and elegant grain, walnut offers a durable surface that protects the edge of knives and is perfect for barbecue boards.
• Iroko and Teak: These exotic woods stand out for their resistance to humidity and heat, preventing warping and absorbing odors.

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Juice grooves: keep your surface clean and enhance flavor

One of the distinctive elements of high-quality barbecue boards are the juice slots. These finely carved troughs around the board capture the juices released by the meat as it is cut, preventing them from spilling onto the work surface or table. In addition to maintaining cleanliness, this ensures that the juices can be reincorporated into the meat or sauces, intensifying the final flavor of the dish.

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Tips for the care and maintenance of your barbecue planks

• Cleaning: Wash the board with warm water and mild soap after each use. Avoid submerging it completely in water or placing it in the dishwasher.
• Drying: Dry immediately with a clean cloth to prevent moisture absorption.
• Maintenance: Periodically apply food-safe mineral oil and maintenance wax to your barbecue planks to maintain their shine and protect the wood from stains and moisture.

What Types of Boards Are Suitable for Barbecuing?

• Cutting Boards: Designed to resist cuts and protect knives, ideal for preparing meats before cooking.
• Presentation Boards: Focused on aesthetics, perfect for serving roasted meats directly to the table.
• Smoking Planks: Made from woods like cedar, they are placed directly on the grill to impart smoky flavors to food.

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Bottom line: elevate your grilling experience with the best barbecue grill boards.

Investing in quality barbecue boards, made of noble woods such as walnut or exotic woods such as iroko and teak, not only facilitates the cutting and presentation of your meats, but also adds aesthetic and professional value to your gastronomic experience. With juice grooves and proper care, these boards will become indispensable tools, whether in the sophisticated setting of a specialty restaurant or in the warmth of your home garden.

At Ligna we offer the CHROMA cutting board, designed for use in meat and barbecue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best wood for barbecue boards?

Hardwoods like maple, walnut, iroko, and teak are ideal due to their strength and durability. These woods offer a firm surface that protects knives and resists wear, making them excellent choices for cutting meat.

2. What is the difference between a cutting board and a barbecue presentation board?

Cutting boards are designed to resist cuts and protect knives, while presentation boards focus on aesthetics and food service. Presentation boards typically have more delicate finishes and aren’t designed for intensive cutting.

3. Why is it important for the board to have juice grooves?

The perimeter grooves collect meat juices, preventing spills and keeping the work surface clean. This is especially useful in professional environments where hygiene is paramount.

4. How should a wooden board be cleaned after a barbecue?

Clean the board with warm, soapy water immediately after use. Avoid submerging it in water or putting it in the dishwasher. Dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth and periodically apply mineral oil to keep the wood in good condition.

5. Is it advisable to use plastic boards for cutting roast meats?

Although plastic boards are easy to clean, they can deteriorate over time and release microplastics. They also don’t offer the same aesthetic or durability as wooden boards, especially when presented to customers.

6. What size board is ideal for a professional barbecue?

A board measuring at least 50 x 30 cm provides enough space for cutting and presenting large pieces of meat, making work easier in professional kitchens and at events.

7. Are bamboo boards suitable for barbecues?

Bamboo is a sustainable and durable option, but it can be harder on knives and less durable than other hardwoods like maple or walnut, mainly due to its low dimensional stability. Additionally, its surface may be more prone to cracking over time.

8. How can cross-contamination be avoided when using barbecue boards?

Use different cutting boards for different types of food: one for raw meats, one for vegetables, and one for cooked meats. This prevents the transfer of bacteria and maintains a clean kitchen.

9. What maintenance does a wooden barbecue board require?

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s recommended to apply food-safe mineral oil every few weeks to keep the wood moisturized and prevent cracking. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme heat.

10. Do wooden boards affect the flavor of food?

Quality wooden boards do not alter the flavor of food. However, it is important to keep them clean and well-maintained to avoid unwanted odors or flavors. If such odors appear, they can be easily eliminated with lemon and salt.

11. Is it safe to use wooden boards to cut cooked meats?

Yes, as long as the cutting board is clean and well-maintained. It’s recommended to have a dedicated cutting board for cooked meats to avoid cross-contamination with raw meats.

12. How thick should barbecue boards be?

A thickness of at least 2 cm provides stability and durability, preventing the board from warping with intensive use. Our cutting boards always start at 3 cm.

13. Can wooden boards be used outdoors?

Yes, but it’s important to protect them from excessive moisture and direct sunlight. After outdoor use, clean and dry them properly before storing.

14. Where can I buy quality barbecue boards?

At Lignawooddesign.com, we offer a variety of wooden grilling boards that combine functionality and design. Explore our collection and find the perfect board for your cooking needs.

15. Can the presentation tables be customized?

Yes, many companies offer customization options, such as engraving or specific designs, ideal for restaurants or as corporate gifts.