The Chemistry of Barbecues

Introduction

Barbecues are not just about cooking; they are a summer event - a celebration of good weather and good vibes. With this in mind, I have decided to dive deep into the chemistry behind the flavours and aromas that make barbecues amazing

From the Maillard Reaction, which is responsible for the browned and delicious surface of grilled food, to the chemistry behind the perfect marinades, a myriad of scientific processes take place every time you fire up the grill.

In this blog, I will look at the chemical reactions that are fundamental in barbecuing. To put this knowledge into practice, I’ll share with you some fail-safe Jamaican  inspired recipes that harness these chemical reactions.

Section 1: The Maillard Reaction

The Maillard Reaction, named after the French chemist Louis-Camille Maillard who first described it in the 1910s, is a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars. Specifically, it occurs when the carbonyl group of the sugar reacts with the amino group of the amino acid, producing water and a complex mixture of molecules, including melanoidins which give food its brown colour.

As the temperature rises above 140°C (284°F), the Maillard Reaction kicks in. The molecules produced by this reaction contribute not only to the browning of the food but also to the development of various flavours and aromas. This is because hundreds of different flavour compounds are created during the reaction, each contributing a small part to the overall taste and aroma of the food.

One notable product of the Maillard Reaction is pyrazines. Pyrazines are aromatic compounds and are partly responsible for the ‘roasted’ and ‘browned’ aromas that are characteristic of barbecued food.

Section 2: Caramelisation

This process is particularly relevant when barbecuing fruits and vegetables.

Caramelisation is the oxidative pyrolysis of sugars. In simpler terms, it's what happens when sugars break down under heat. Unlike the Maillard Reaction, which involves both amino acids and sugars, caramelization deals solely with sugars.

As the temperature reaches around 160-180°C (320-356°F), the sugars start to break down into different compounds, including diacetyl, maltol, and furan, among others. Diacetyl has a buttery flavour, maltol tastes like toasted caramel, and furan provides a nutty taste. The combination of these compounds contributes to the characteristic sweet and nutty flavours we associate with caramelized food.

One fascinating aspect of caramelisation in the context of barbecuing is how it affects fruits and vegetables. For instance, when you barbecue fruits like pineapples or peaches, the natural sugars within them caramelise, enhancing their sweetness and creating a complex flavour profile. Vegetables such as onions or bell peppers also undergo caramelisation, which is why they tend to develop a sweet, smoky taste when grilled.

Section 3: Smoke and Flavour

Smoke is an essential element to barbecuing, imparting a unique flavour profile that is synonymous with grilled foods. It is produced when wood is heated and begins to break down in a process called pyrolysis. During this process, complex molecules in the wood break down into smaller, volatile compounds. Some of these compounds, such as guaiacol and syringol, are phenolic compounds that give smoked food its characteristic smoky flavour.

Guaiacol is responsible for the spicy and smoky taste, while syringol has a sweeter, smoky flavour. There are also carboxylic acids in the smoke, like acetic acid, which can contribute to the tanginess, and furans that contribute to a nutty, caramel-like flavour.

The choice of wood is a significant factor in determining the flavours that smoke will impart to the food. Different woods contain varying amounts and types of lignin and other chemicals that influence the flavour profile of the smoke. For example, hickory wood is known for its strong and hearty smokiness, making it suitable for robust meats like pork and ribs. On the other hand, applewood produces a milder, slightly sweet smoke, which complements lighter meats such as poultry and fish.

Additionally, the moisture content of the wood affects the amount and composition of the smoke. Drier wood produces more intense smoke with a higher concentration of flavour compounds, while wood with more moisture tends to produce a milder smoke.

Section 4: Marinades and Rubs

Marinades and rubs are vital to barbecued dishes. Their chemistry works to not only give flavour but also modify the texture of the meat. Let's unpack this.

Marinades

Marinades often contain acids, such as vinegar or citrus juice. These acids have a dual function. Firstly, they help in tenderising the meat. This is because the acids can break down some of the collagen in the meat, which is a protein that can make meat tough when in abundance. The breaking down of collagen leads to a more tender texture.

Furthermore, the acid components can cause the meat proteins to denature, a process where the protein structure unravels. This can create a more porous structure which allows the marinade to penetrate deeper, thus effectively seasoning the meat from the inside.

 Rubs

On the other hand, rubs primarily consist of a blend of spices and herbs. These spices contain a plethora of chemical compounds that react with the meat. For example, allicin in garlic has antimicrobial properties and imparts a distinct flavour. Capsaicin, found in chilli peppers, is responsible for the spicy kick.

Many spices also contain essential oils which are made up of compounds such as terpenes and phenolics. These compounds are released when the spices are heated, and they contribute to creating a complex flavour profile.

One fascinating interaction is between the compound myoglobin in the meat and the spices. Myoglobin is responsible for the red colour of raw meat. However, through various chemical reactions with compounds in the rub, including the Maillard reaction, the colour can change, giving the meat the characteristic browned appearance of barbecued food.

Section 5: The Importance of Temperature

Temperature serves as a catalyst that facilitates and governs an array of chemical reactions. Here’s why it is a vital aspect:

Achieving the Desired Chemical Reactions

The Maillard Reaction and caramelisation, both discussed earlier, are highly dependent on temperature. For the Maillard Reaction to occur, the temperature must be high enough, usually above 140°C (284°F), for the amino acids and sugars to react. Caramelisation begins at even higher temperatures, around 160-180°C (320-356°F).

Adequate temperature is also vital for the rendering of fat. When the fat in the meat slowly melts over a controlled heat, it lubricates the meat, making it juicier and more flavoursome. This is because fat is known to carry flavour compounds. Fatty acids in the fat provide a rich and creamy taste, while lipid oxidation products emerge during heating, giving a nutty or buttery flavour. Fat also absorbs and releases the aromas of spices, herbs, and marinades through aroma compounds. Furthermore, Maillard Reaction products, such as pyrazines and furans, are created, adding the distinct roasted and grilled flavours. Additionally, fat-soluble vitamins and compounds like vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as carotenoids and terpenes, are present in the fat, which further enhance the flavour and aroma of the barbecued food.

Safety and Texture

Aside from flavour development, temperature plays a vital role in food safety. Cooking meat at the right temperature ensures that harmful bacteria are killed. For example, it’s essential to cook chicken to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure that any present Salmonella bacteria are eliminated.

Furthermore, temperature control is key in achieving the desired texture. Cooking at a lower temperature for a longer time can tenderise the meat by slowly breaking down the collagen into gelatin. Conversely, a high temperature can cause proteins to tighten and squeeze out moisture, leading to a firmer texture. Finding a balance between the two, or using methods like reverse searing, can help achieve the perfect tenderness.

Section 6: Chemistry of Charcoal vs. Gas Grills

The debate between charcoal and gas grilling has been ongoing for decades. Let's look at the chemistry behind these two grilling methods to understand how they differ in flavour and the compounds involved.

Combustion and Heat

Charcoal grills use charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel. When charcoal burns, it produces a more intense heat compared to gas grills. This is because charcoal undergoes incomplete combustion, which results in the production of aromatic compounds like guaiacol and syringol. These compounds impart a smoky flavour to the food.

Gas grills, on the other hand, use propane or natural gas as fuel. The combustion of these gases is more complete and cleaner, resulting in a more consistent and easily controllable heat. However, this also means that fewer flavour-imparting compounds are produced during combustion.

Flavour Compounds

Charcoal grilling tends to create a more complex flavour profile due to the production of various phenolic compounds. When fat drips onto the hot charcoal, it vaporizes and interacts with the smoke, creating flavour compounds that are then absorbed by the food. Guaiacol is one of the key compounds produced, which contributes to the smoky, spicy flavour typical of charcoal-grilled food.

In contrast, gas grilling produces fewer of these flavour compounds. The flavour of food cooked on a gas grill is often considered cleaner and allows for the natural flavours of the ingredients to come through more distinctly.

Smoke and Maillard Reaction

Smoke is more prominent in charcoal grilling and enhances the flavour through the compounds it carries. Additionally, the higher heat produced by charcoal is conducive to the Maillard Reaction, creating a better sear and a crust rich in flavours.

Gas grills produce less smoke and the Maillard Reaction may not be as pronounced due to the lower intensity of heat. However, gas grills offer better control over the cooking temperature, which can be advantageous for certain recipes.

Conclusion

Choosing between charcoal and gas grills depends on personal preference for flavour complexity and the need for temperature control. Charcoal grills, with their high heat and smoke, impart a smoky, rich flavour due to the chemical compounds produced. Gas grills provide a cleaner, more natural taste, and offer more precise control over the cooking process. 

Section 7: Healthy BBQ Tips

It is vital to understand the chemical alterations that can happen during grilling, as some may affect health. We’ll focus on two compounds that form during grilling - polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), and explore methods to reduce their formation..

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

PAHs are a group of chemicals that are formed when muscle meat, including beef, pork, fish, and poultry, is cooked using high-temperature methods, such as grilling over an open flame. PAHs are formed through the pyrolysis of organic matter, and can also be formed when fats and juices from meat grilled directly over an open fire drip onto the fire, causing flames and smoke. The smoke can contain PAHs, which then adhere to the surface of the meat.

Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs)

HCAs are formed when amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), sugars, and creatine (a substance found in muscle) react at high temperatures. The formation of HCAs is influenced by the type of food, the cooking time, and the temperature at which the food is cooked. HCAs are of concern because research has shown that they may increase the risk of cancer.

Tips to Minimise Formation of PAHs and HCAs

1. Marinate Before Grilling: Marinating meats can reduce the formation of HCAs. Ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, or red wine can hinder the pathways that lead to HCA formation.

2. Avoid Direct Exposure to Flames: Cook the meat on the outer edges of the grill to avoid the dripping of fats onto the flames, which leads to flare-ups and the subsequent formation of PAHs.

3. Reduce Cooking Time: Cook smaller cuts of meat to reduce cooking time, and consider partially cooking meats in a microwave or oven before finishing on the grill. This can reduce the time the meat is exposed to high temperatures, thus reducing HCA formation.

4. Flip Frequently: Turning meat frequently at a lower temperature can also reduce the formation of HCAs.

5. Choose Leaner Meats: Trimming fat can reduce flare-ups and smoke, which in turn can reduce the amount of PAHs that adhere to the meat.

6. Include Fruits and Vegetables: They don't produce HCAs like meats, and their antioxidants might help to counteract any harmful substances.

Section 8: Recipes

I absolutely love Jamaican cooking, especially Jerk Chicken. The intense flavours, the tenderness of the meat, and the smoky goodness - it’s impossible to resist! So I've created a jerk chicken recipe that not only focuses on the traditional spices but also incorporates Demerara sugar to add that perfect caramelisation. I'll also be placing a lime inside the chicken for added moisture and a burst of citrus. For our vegetarian friends, the jerk seasoning is brilliantly compatible with portobello mushrooms. To round it all off, there’s a vibrant citrusy salad with a hint of chilli and creamy avocado. 

Recipe: Jerk Barbecued Whole Chicken 🍗

 Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)

- 4 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning

- 2 tbsp Demerara sugar

- 1 lime

- Salt to taste

- Large aluminium roasting tin

Jerk Marinade:

- 6 spring onions, chopped

- 3 Scotch bonnet chillies, deseeded and chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, chopped

- 1 tbsp thyme leaves

- 2 tsp ground allspice

- 3 tbsp dark soy sauce

- 1 tbsp honey

- 1 lime, juiced

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine all the jerk marinade ingredients until smooth.

2. Place the chicken in a large sealable bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

3. Preheat your barbecue for high heat, with coals or heat source to one side to allow for indirect grilling.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry. Mix olive oil, jerk seasoning, Demerara sugar, and salt, and rub this mixture over the chicken.

5. Optionally, pierce the lime several times with a fork and microwave it for 1 minute. Place the lime inside the chicken cavity.

6. Place the chicken in a large aluminium roasting tin and position the tin on the grill away from direct heat (indirect grilling). Close the lid of the barbecue.

7. Cook for 1-1½ hours, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches at least 74°C (165°F) at the thickest part.

8. During the last 30 minutes, baste the chicken with the juices collected in the tin for additional flavor and moisture.

9. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

This method with the aluminium roasting tin will allow the chicken to cook evenly, gather its juices, and have a smoky, caramelised exterior with a tender interior.

Vegetarian Alternative: Jerk Barbecued Portobello Mushrooms 🍄

Ingredients:

- 4 large portobello mushrooms

- Jerk marinade (use the recipe above)

- Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Place the mushrooms in a large sealable bag and pour in the jerk marinade. Seal the bag and let marinate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat your barbecue for medium-high heat.

3. Brush the mushrooms with olive oil and grill them for 5-7 minutes on each side, until tender.

4. Sprinkle with parsley, lime and coriander for extra depth of flavour. 

Citrusy Salad with a Kick 🍊🌶️

Ingredients:

- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented

- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

- A bunch of mint and basil

- ½ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

- 1 avocado, diced

- 1 small red chilli, finely sliced (optional)

- 2 or 3 radishes finely sliced

- 3 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tbsp lime juice

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the oranges, grapefruit, herbs, red onion, radish, avocado, and chilli. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients. Baby gem letuce or baby leaf spinach also works really well. 

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Remember, the key to perfect emulsion is a 3:1 oil to acid ratio

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

4. Season to taste.

Happy barbecuing! 🔥