Charcoal or Gas: What’s The Best BBQ For You?
Nothing says summer like a barbecue. But you need the right equipment to make sure your food is irresistible. So, what’s the best BBQ for you – charcoal or gas? Keep reading to explore each option in detail and compare their benefits so you can decide which one is best for you!
Gas BBQ
Sahara S350 3 Burner Gas BBQIf you're looking for a fast, easy and convenient BBQ option, then a gas BBQ is the way to go. Gas BBQs heat up quickly and evenly, so you can start cooking your food as soon as you fire up the grill. And because there's no need to wait for the coals to heat up, you can cook your food faster on a gas grill.
The temperature can be easily regulated for an even cooking. Gas BBQs are much easier to clean as there's no ashes to clean up afterwards. There's no need to scrub away at dirty charcoal briquettes - simply turn off the gas and give the grill a quick wipe down.
On the other hand, gas BBQs can be expensive and can lack the distinctive chargrill taste.
If you're after a hassle-free BBQ experience, then a gas grill is the best option for you.
Charcoal BBQ
Phoenix 57cm Charcoal Kettle BBQ BlackIf you're looking for a true smoky BBQ flavor, then charcoal is the way to go. Many people believe that gas grills can't provide the same level of flavor as charcoal. They tend to get hotter due to the burning charcoal which gives the food that chargrilled, mouthwatering taste.
Another advantage of charcoal BBQs is that they're usually cheaper than gas grills. If you're on a budget, then a charcoal grill is a great option. They're usually smaller and more portable, making them perfect for storing away or taking away with you. On the other hand, it can take longer to reach the perfect cooking temperature so you need to decide if the taste is worth the wait!
BBQ Materials & Construction
As with most outdoor items, stainless steel offers the best durability and weather resistance, but there is a wide range of barbecues available that are made with different materials that offer different benefits and suit different budgets.
You don’t need to invest in stainless steel if you will be storing your barbecue in a shed when it’s not in use, or if you cover it with a high quality, waterproof barbecue cover. Lighter constructions using materials like aluminium are also more suitable if portability is important to you.
BBQ Grill Materials
There are various grill materials to choose from. Look out for these materials when looking for your next BBQ.
- Chrome plated grills look smart and are easy to clean, but they must be cleaned thoroughly after every use.
- Stainless steel grills are easy to clean and maintain, and are more durable than chrome plated grills.
- Cast Iron grills hold heat well and cook food evenly, which means that meat sears well and cooks quickly. Unfortunately, cast iron grills need regular cleaning and seasoning, even when not in regular use. If cast iron grills are neglected they will rust, but if they are well maintained they can last a lifetime.
- Porcelain coated grills are easy to clean and don’t rust. They should be cleaned with soapy water - do not use a wire brush on them. Porcelain coated grills hold the heat well but don’t tend to sear the meat like stainless steel or cast iron grills.
Additional BBQ Features
Phoenix 3 Burner Gas BBQ Grey/Stainless SteelThere are additional features that you may want to consider when choosing the right BBQ for you.
Lids & Hoods
A barbecue with a lid or a hood is more versatile. Closing the lid or hood while cooking will keep the heat and smoke inside the BBQ, giving you flexibility in your cooking methods. It allows you to smoke the food and to cook by convection with the heat of the air as well as with the heat of the grill.
Built-in Thermometer
A built in thermometer is an ideal feature to look out for. It allows you to monitor the heat inside the BBQ while cooking, allowing you to know exactly when to the food is ready.
Side Burners
Side burners are a convenient feature to have. They allow you to heat or cook side dishes or sauces in a saucepan while you barbecue, without having to go back into the kitchen. They can also be used to keep barbecued food warm while you prep the sides!
Think it's time to buy a new BBQ? Browse our wide range of BBQ's here!
