Cooking over an open fire is the oldest cooking technique known to human kind, as well as the simplest and purest of cooking forms. That’s why it’s so spread all over the world. What makes this technique so popular is a smoky flavors and mouthwatering aromas that mystically slipping out from the food over open fire.
There are grills of all types on the market, for use in almost any grilling situation. They range from inexpensive Hibachi you can buy in any Supermarket or discount store to expensive beautifully-manufactured covered charcoal or gas grills.
Here are few examples of grills and we discuss the differences between many types to help you buy the right grill for you. We’ll also talk about some of the different Tools and Accessories for grilling that will help you flipping burgers or grilling fish fillet.
As the biggest purchase you’ll to make is the GRILL itself, keep reading until you knowledgeable on the grill before making any purchase.
Hibachi
Hibachi is widely used because it’s small portable grill, suitable for small picnic group or camping treks. It fits in the fireplace, so you can grill in wet or cold weather indoors. It’s probably fine for occasional grilling or for small cut of meats suitable for couple.
There are 3 materials choices: cast iron, stamped tin/steel with porcelain-enamel finish and stainless steel. Stamped tin/steel is not recommended since mostly flimsy and not last long. Cast iron will rust but it may last a lifetime only if you keep moisture away when not using it . Unlike cast iron, modern version of hibachi are made from stainless steel, hence minimum care is required, a better choice for those who hate to clean up the grill after enjoying the food.
Some hibachi have door that opens down on the front to add coals or adjust the dampers to control the heat.
Kettle Grill
This type of grill is familiar round or spherical kettle-shaped or rectangular grill with a draft control on the lid and in the base to control the temperatures. Closing the dampers reduces the heat, opening them increases it. When the lid is closed, heat is reflected off the inside. Hence cooks the food evenly and keeps it moist. When the lid is open, the grill are hotter since added circulation promotes their burning. This design also allows for indirect cooking by placing a water pan in the charcoal chamber or gas burner.
Most of them is charcoal-fueled rather than gas but some later models come with gas-fueled with more controls. For charcoal type, there is typically a catch down on the bottom of the grill to easily trap leftover ashes for ease of cleaning. Many of these grills come in a cart formation, mounted on a tripod with wheels for easy mobility and storage.
There are 2 materials choices: stamped tin/steel with porcelain-enamel finish and stainless steel.
Stainless Steel Gas and Charcoal Grill
A Stainless Steel Grill is one of the most versatile, durable and long lasting types of grill you can buy. According to market study, gas grills are becoming more popular and account for more than 60% of the market, while charcoal grills claim the rest. Gas grills are more sophisticated than charcoal grill with many control knobs ready to navigate the grill. This type of covered gas grill offers more convenience, like fast starts, accurate heat control, even cooking, easy year-round use, and less labor-intensive and messy clean up.
Gas flames heat a bed of lava rock or ceramic coals (no charcoal is required) to provide the cooking power. Fat from the meat drips onto the lava rocks or coals and produces smoke for a grilled flavor. Hickory or fruitwood chips can be used to create more of the smoky taste associated with charcoal grilling.
On the other hand, although its a debate of the choice, every barbecue griller contestant around the world swears by charcoal grilling, due to the flavor and properties it imparts on the food. Charcoal grills are simpler and less expensive, and they’re gaining in features and convenience, too.
Tools and Accessories
Once you choose your dream grill that’s right for you, you’ll want to make sure that you have the basic tools and accessories to get out there and start grilling. Read more about Tools and Accessories here.
