Some people run their grill like an outdoor kitchen – handling all of the sides, entrees and snacks from
one location. Others have a limited space and use the grill as a place to prepare
just a few foods, and leave the rest of the meal to the kitchen. For others
the grill is the entertainment center of their backyard or traveling
tailgate party. However you use it, it is one item that
is hard to live without!
Types of Outdoor Grills
There are 2 main types of outdoor grill: charcoal and propane (gas).
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills use charcoal briquettes to slowly cook your food,
and companies offer seasoned briquettes to add a smoked
or hickory flavor. There are a few types of charcoal grills from which to choose:
Charcoal grills have long been the traditional grill of America and come in sizes
from tabletop to party size. These grills not only cook by the flame, but also the
heat captured inside.
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A kettle grill is what most of us tend
to think of as the 'classic' charcoal grill. While kettle grills can be as small as a tabletop variety, they are generally stand-alone units that still offer quite a bit of flexibility for travel.
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The portable charcoal grill ranges from a one time use product, to a grill that fits
nicely on a tabletop for a few servings. This is one of the most convenient options
for traveling, going for a picnic or to the beach, or
an apartment with a small patio or balcony.
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At its most basic, the barrel grill is a standard 55-gallon drum that's been sawn in half along its length. It's fitted with racks, vents, and and placed on a stand. While manufacturers do offer slightly more evolved versions, the design remains effectively the same. |
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Cart grills have a traditional rectangular shape, and are favored by most
catering companies and outdoor eating hot spots. These grills have options from a rising
fire to an ash drop pit. Contemporary cart grills have been created to replicate
the look and feel of a gas grill, while retaining the flavor and aroma of charcoal. |
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Smoker grills allows you to cook meat quickly and impart classic smoked barbecue flavor. Look for units with thermostats and temperature controls. |
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Cleanup on a charcoal grill can be a little messier than other grills - once briquettes burn away, you must dump the ashes and clean the grill
thoroughly with a
grill brush.
Gas Grills
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Gas grills typically use propane gas to create the flame to cook food. This once bitter rival of the charcoal grill has now broken
out as leader in convenience grilling. Gas grills range from portable, take-along units
to luxury models for the serious griller.
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Convenience is the major reason people choose gas grills - the ability to have electric ignition that creates flames instantly is compelling. Features like
side burners
offer the ability to create a full outdoor kitchen.
Basic gas grills do not have the ability to impart smoke flavor that hardwood
or charcoal grills will, but models with
smoker accessories are available. You may also purchase flavor-infused
ceramic briquettes to work with your gas grill.
Not all gas grills run on propane, and many new models can be operated on
natural gas. If you live in an area that uses natural gas for cooking, you can have a line
run directly to the grill never have to worry about running out of gas again.
Cleanup on a gas grill is very simple, as there is often a drip pan that needs
to be cleaned out only a few times a year (depending on how much you grill).
Since there are no ashes, you need only use good wire grill brush on the racks.
Outdoor Grill Options
Side Burners
Mostly found in gas grill tops,
side burners work
just like a gas stove and turn on with the turn of a knob. This feature allows
you to use your regular pots and pans outdoors and cook food normally relegated to the
the kitchen.
Grill Racks & Grates
Found on both gas and charcoal grills, a top rack is a great feature if you like to grill vegetables or bread. A rack
keeps food much higher off the flame and cooks much more slowly. They are often connected to the grill's lid so it moves out of
the way when you open it. Some mid-level and high-end models include multiple
upper level racks to accommodate a variety of foods.
Rotisseries can accommodate the slow-roasting of meat and poultry.
Look for thick, heavy-duty stainless steel and cast-iron grates, as these will be sturdier and out-perform thin rods.
Outdoor Grill Construction
Grill composition can range from aluminum throw away pans, to
stainless steel, to anything in between. The material your grill is made out of will dramatically
affect the price. Most high-end units are made out of stainless steel.
Outdoor Grill Sizes
Grill size is the most important characteristic to consider. How many people do
you typically grill for? What foods do you like to prepare on the grill? How much space do you have to dedicate to grilling? Do you want to travel with your grill?
The answers to these questions should guide you to the proper choice of grill size and
accessories.