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Barbecue/Rust on the cooking grid

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Expert: - 6/12/2007


Question
Hi Whitestag,
I'm an expert on allexperts.com in the roofing section.  I have several questions related to the rust on my cooking grid.  I have a stainless steel grid.  Some minor rust has developed on some parts of the grid. Is rust on the cooking grid bad for you in any way?

If I wire brush the grid, but very small amounts of rust are left on the grid, is that bad for you?

Could you tell me the best way to go about cleaning the cooking grids, or point me to a website that you recommend that tells the best method for cleaning?

If we buy replacement cooking grids, is there a good reason to buy porcelain grids?  What do you recommend?  What kind of grid is least likely to develop rust?

Thank you very much for your time and effort in helping a BBQ dunce.

Stan Skarbek

Answer
Your rust sounds pretty minimal -- I wouldn't be too concerned about it.  Wire brushing is indeed the best way to keep your grill clean.  Most wire brushes designed for cleaning grills are made of brass wire -- your local bbq/grill store will no doubt have a selection of the things.

-- Whitestag

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Whitestag

Expertise

I can answer questions having to do with grilling or barbecuing meat (but not pork), poultry, fish, and vegetables over charcoal or wood. I also have some expertise in marinades and spice mixes. I cook only with charcoal and wood, so please do not ask me any questions about gas or electric grills.

Experience

I've been cooking with fire and smoke for 25 years, using charcoal and wood almost exclusively. While I do not usually cook with gas, I'm willing to try to answer cooking questions in this area. I cook meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, and I've experimented with a lot of different recipes and techniques. I am not able to answer questions about grilling or barbecuing pork. Most recently I've been using slow-cooking (indirect heat) techniques, and have been very successful at it.

Education/Credentials
Not applicable to this area of expertise.

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