Finding Your Perfect Grill

Grilling out, cooking out, barbecuing –whatever you call it, one thing’s definitive: there’s nothing like the taste of grilled food! Whether your taste is a juicy hamburger, a scrumptious steak or a finely grilled piece of salmon, today’s grills are equipped to produce a perfectly barbecued meal.

But what kind of grill is best for you? Let’s explore the different types of grills and their advantages and disadvantages:

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills are the classic way to cook! A charcoal grill is still a popular choice because it simply cooks great food. Charcoal grills give food a long-lasting, smoky flavor.

Charcoal grills are generally less expensive than gas or electric grills, although they cost more, per use, than other types of grills because of the charcoal needed to operate them.  These grills also take much longer than other types of grills to heat up and cool down, and you must properly dispose of the ashes.

Look for a wheeled charcoal grill, as wheels make it much easier to move the grill to the desired grilling area. Also consider one with an igniter, which eliminates the need for lighter fluid; a lid, which holds the smoke in and shortens the cooking time; and air vents, which allow you to better control the cooking temperature.

Although cooking on a charcoal grill is more time consuming than other types of grills, most people will agree that the intense, smoke flavor of the food is worth the wait.

Gas Grills

Gas grills are usually fueled by propane tank. Gas grills are a fast, easy and clean way to grill food.  Some gas grills come with side burners for cooking accompanying dishes, and some come with rotisserie attachments or smoke boxes, which offer more cooking versatility.

Gas grills can also operate using a natural gas line, which is often more convenient than filling propane tanks. It also eliminates the possibility of running out of propane in the middle of grilling. Natural gas is cleaner burning than propane, and it is better for the environment.

You can purchase special natural gas grills or convert your propane grill into a natural gas grill. You will need the services of a qualified plumber to make your natural gas connection.

Gas grills are convenient, as you can instantly start it up and begin cooking. Heat control knobs and integral igniters also offer more convenience. Propane burns cleaner than charcoal grills and is less expensive, per use, than charcoal grills.

Other Types of Grills

A fire pit grill offers a blazing fire using real firewood. Terra cotta or ceramic grills are inexpensive and portable, and are ideal for a fast grilling option. An electric grill is great if you don’t want the mess or clean-up of a charcoal, wood or propane grill, although it must be near an electrical outlet to operate. Electric grills are ideal for apartment dwellers that can not use gas or charcoal grills. A portable grill, which is available in electric, charcoal or gas models, is ideal for on-the-go grilling. Portable grills are a popular choice for use at camp, lakeside, or at the park.