Question: Some grilling recipes instruct me to cook food using indirect heat. What is indirect heat?

Answer: That's when you cook away from the direct heat of the coals or gas burners, usually with the grill covered. Indirect heat is best for grilling food like thick cuts of pork, beef and chicken that require longer cooking. Start by piling the hot coals on one side of the grill, or light the gas burners on one side. You may want to first sear both sides of the meat or chicken for a few minutes on each side. Then move it to the cooler side of the grill and keep the lid on until the meat or poultry is done. Indirect grill cooking gives you a seared texture outside and moist texture inside, with a bigger margin for error since you're cooking more slowly over lower heat.

Grill tip: If you use a chimney charcoal starter you know that, depending on the weather and condition of the briquettes, the burning newspaper doesn't always quickly start the charcoal. The August issue of Cook's Illustrated magazine suggests placing four or five self-starting briquettes at the bottom of the chimney, then fill the balance with ordinary charcoal. The self-starting charcoal, which has been treated with lighter fluid, helps ensure the chimney starts fast. But, because you're only using a few briquettes, it doesn't taint your food with the flavor of lighter fluid.

Grill gear: Maverick's portable grill light enables you to check for doneness after the sun goes down. The stainless light with 18-inch adjustable neck attaches to your grill table with a clip and is powered by four AAA batteries. Available from www.cooking.com for $39.95.

Tube food: Learn how to host the perfect paella party, with recipes for white wine sangria, paella and espresso flan, at 1:30 p.m. today on Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello on the Food Network.

Hot date: For the second year, NatureSweet is bringing its Homegrown Tomato Challenge to Greater Cincinnati. After July 24, gardeners can pick up contest entry forms at Kroger stores, which allow them to enter the tomato tasting Aug. 21. First prize for the best-tasting homegrown tomato is $5,000. Information: www.naturesweettomatoes.com.