What is "indirect grilling"?

Indirect grilling refers to the method of cooking food next to the heat source rather than directly over it. This technique allows for a more even cooking process and is particularly effective for larger cuts of meat or items that require longer cooking times. The heat surrounds the food, cooking it thoroughly while minimizing the risk of burning or charring that can occur with direct heat cooking methods.

In this setup, the grill is typically preheated, and the food is placed on one side while the heat source is on the opposite side. This creates a convection-like environment, allowing the food to cook slowly and evenly. It's important for foods that need to be cooked thoroughly without drying out or developing a tough exterior. This method is often used for items like whole chickens, roasts, and even barbecue ribs, where a longer cooking time is needed to achieve tenderness and flavor.

The other choices either describe methods that involve direct heat, which can lead to quick cooking or scorching, or cooking methods that don't align with the principles of indirect grilling. Thus, the choice of cooking food next to the heat source captures the essence of what indirect grilling truly embodies.