The Day Before Your Barbecue

Rub or marinate large cuts of meat, like briskets and pork shoulders. Marinate them overnight in a nonreactive (glass or stainless steel) pan or bowl or even in a clean garbage bag in the refrigerator. Turn the meat several times to ensure even marinating. If using a gas grill, fill the propane tank and one or two backup tanks. If using a charcoal grill, buy a few extra bags of charcoal. Prepare side dishes that aren’t time sensitive, such as baked beans or coleslaw.