How to Use the Oven Broiler Instead of an Outdoor Grill

Question

For a variety of reasons, I don't grill.  I'm sure I am not the only one of your readers who can't grill because of no yard, old age, grill-unfriendly climate, etc.  Are there any general guidelines for using my oven's broiler in place of a gas or charcoal grill?
I get really tired of reading great sounding recipes that only have directions for grilling.
I wanted to try the no mayo grilled potato salad, but I can't because I don't grill.
It sure would be nice if you included broiler directions for situations where grilling is impossible.

Matthew Card · Accepted Answer

Hi,
Grilling can be a real pain in the neck, so I understand why you don't grill. We typically include instructions for broiling or indoor cooking when it's a fairly easy translation.
Broiling generally works for grilling, but it's important to remember a few key points. For starters, there's the equipment. A broiler tray, or wire rack set on a rimmed baking sheet, is essential in that it mimics a grill grate and allows liquid to wick away rather than pool on the pan. Then it's crucial to get the pan's height adjusted to the heating element. Usually, its between 4 to 6 inches. Your oven rack should be adjustable to these heights, but you can always put always invert a rimmed baking sheet and place your baking pan on top of it if you need to "fudge" the height. Thirdly, pay CLOSE attention. Depending on the intensity of the heating of the heating element, foods can cook very quickly. Don't walk away!
For the potato salad, I would follow the recipe, but broil the potatoes on a broiler tray 6 inches from heating element, turning them as they brown. It should take about 6 minutes.
Best,
Matt C.

How to Use the Oven Broiler Instead of an Outdoor Grill

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