Direct cooking on a Weber Q

WHAT IS DIRECT COOKING?

The direct method is ideal for grilling or searing food on your barbecue. In this technique, food is placed directly above the heat source, usually on the cooking grill. Direct grilling is recommended for foods that cook in 20 minutes or less and require turning at least once during the cooking time. This method is perfect for steaks, burgers, fish fillets, boneless chicken pieces, sliced vegetables, and shellfish. 

HOW TO SET UP YOUR WEBER Q FOR DIRECT COOKING 

Set both cooking grills in place on the Weber Q, light your barbecue, close the lid, and preheat with settings below.

If you’re cooking with a hotplate, please refer here: Hotplate cooking on a Weber Q

RECOMMENDED PREHEAT AND COOK SETTINGS

3rd Generation Baby Q, Weber Q, Weber Q+ and Family Q models (released in 2023 or later)

Direct very high heat is only applicable for Weber Q+ and Family Q models as they feature a Plus burner:

1st and 2nd Generation Baby Q, Weber Q and Family Q models (released prior to 2023)

HOT TIPS

• Preheating is essential: Preheating your barbecue is crucial for several reasons: it helps prevent food from sticking to the grills, ensures you're cooking on a sanitised surface, and allows the food to sear and caramelise quickly for optimal flavour. When the grill is properly preheated, food cooks more evenly and develops that perfect, mouthwatering crust. 
• Clean grills are non-negotiable: There's a common myth that a "dirty" grill adds flavour, but in reality, clean grills produce the best results. Caramelisation and searing happen most effectively on a clean surface. Once your barbecue has preheated and any leftover debris has turned to ash, use a Weber grill brush to clean the grills before cooking. 
• Oil the food, not the grills: Avoid applying oil directly to the cooking grills, as this can lead to flare-ups. Instead, oil your food before seasoning it. This not only helps the seasonings adhere better but also ensures nicer grill marks and minimizes the risk of flare-ups.