The fire that's perfect for one meal can ruin another. Chicken, for example, needs moderate heat to cook through without burning; beefsteaks do best over high heat so that a nice crust will form without the center overcooking. To get the best results, consider these suggestions.

MODERATE HEAT: pork, sausages, lamb, poultry, thick fish steaks, raw vegetables

HIGH HEAT: beefsteaks, thin fish steaks, shellfish

TIP: Meat, poultry and fish will cook most evenly if they're at room temperature at grilling time.