Summer is around the corner and that means the grilling season has officially arrived (yes, even if your forecast still says “scattered showers”). And while we’re all for a bourbon on the rocks while the coals heat up, there’s another reason to keep that bottle close: It might just be the secret ingredient your summer cooking’s been missing.
No, this isn’t just a summer fever dream. Bourbon’s sweet, warm, slightly smoky profile pairs beautifully with all kinds of cooking techniques—grilling included. But it’s just as impactful in a stovetop glaze, a hot skillet, or even a rich dessert. From smoky grilled chicken to syrupy French toast with heat, these bourbon-spiked dishes come straight from the chefs who actually cook with it.
