Almost every one of us is familiar with the wide variety of fuel and heat sources that we have when it comes to grilling. These range from traditional charcoal to the newly invented natural gas. Like any other cooking equipment, each type of grill has its own merits and demerits. In fact, some of these grills might completely change the flavor of the food that you prepare.
Consider the following features of different types of grills. A flat top grill guarantees you an even cooking area. A charcoal grill is known for its delicious and flavorful meat. A natural gas grill is seen as an environmentally conscious option for grilling. A pellet grill is ideal if you wish to grill without spending much time. And lastly, a smoker grill is a feasible option for you to prepare food in a low-temperature setting.
In the article that follows, we will dive into the most commonly used grills available in the market today. We will also discuss the merits and demerits of each of these grills.
Contents
What Is A Flat Top Grill?
A flat-top grill is cooking equipment that is identical to a griddle. However, it is distinct in the sense that the heating element it uses is not straight from one side to another but circular. As a result, using a flat top grill assures you of an even cooking surface because heat disperses in a radial manner.
The temperature consistency, capacity, and flexibility offered by flat top grills make them an ideal choice for preparing seafood dishes, especially in seafood restaurants. In addition, these grills also have a practical application for front-of-house cooking. In this cooking method, the diner is able to enjoy the smell, visual as well as the sound of the food being prepared.
There are several types of flat top grills. The one which is most commonly used is identical to a gas grill. These grills come with a hanger along with two or four wheels. There are two shelves positioned on either side of the cooking area which offer a place for preparing food and sorting ingredients.
A compact flat-top grill is a viable option when you are planning to go tailgating or camping. This grill derives heat from a small propane canister similar to the one used with a camping stove.
A flat top grill offers both merits and demerits. It is a versatile piece of equipment. You can cook a wide variety of food items on a flat-top grill. However, there are strong chances of a grease buildup when you are using a flattop grill. Lastly, a flat-top grill lacks the smoky flavor provided by the conventional grill.
To choose a flat-top grill, you need to consider your budget, the quantity of food that you will be preparing, the grease management procedure, and so on.
What Is A Charcoal Grill?
A charcoal grill is meant for outdoor purposes. As the name indicates, this grill makes use of charcoal as the primary fuel source. A charcoal grill calls for a considerable amount of effort. Hence, it is a viable cooking option for someone who loves the entire process of grilling and not just eating.
Before you purchase a charcoal grill, you should consider some factors. For instance, your grill should have solid construction. It should preferably be made from thick stainless steel or metal. Since you might have to move your grill from one position to another, it should have at least two wheels. The lid of your grill should be tight enough to ensure the heat doesn’t escape. In addition, air vents on the top and bottom of the grill will ensure that you have greater control over the airflow. An ash catcher is also necessary because you need to discard the ashes safely.
A charcoal grill can become really hot. It is affordable as well as portable cooking equipment. If you are someone who is committed to enjoying a good smoky flavor, a charcoal grill is the only option for you. However, if you plan to opt for a charcoal grill, you would also require a charcoal chimney. Furthermore, charcoal grills easily get messy. Therefore, it might get cumbersome for you to clean a charcoal grill. Lastly, in some areas, it might be illegal to use a charcoal grill because there is a chance of igniting a fire.
What Is A Natural Gas Grill?
As evident by the name, the natural gas grill uses natural gas as the primary fuel source. While transporting and storing natural gas is a task, it is an environmentally viable option. Natural gas doesn’t have to be purchased individually. Instead, the costs will reflect in your utility bills. You can grill for as long as you want to ensure your gas supplier doesn’t block your supply. While purchasing a natural gas grill might be an expensive investment in the first place, you will have relatively fewer operating costs in the long run.
Using a natural gas grill also ensures optimal air quality around your cooking area. A gas grill is convenient to use. In addition, you can prepare your food quickly if you are using a gas grill. However, a gas grill is an expensive investment. Added to this is the fact that you will need gas. Therefore, while the start-to-serve duration of a natural gas grill is less, you will have to work hard to enjoy a smoky flavor. If you dislike cleaning a grill, you should opt for the natural gas grill. Searing a natural gas grill with a lower upper temperature makes it a near impossible task.
What Is A Pellet Grill?
Pellet grills are cooking devices that use wood pellets to prepare food. The wood pellets are positioned in a chamber known as a pellet hopper which generates the heat. You can use your pellet grill to smoke, braise, bake and grill food. The traditional flavor offered by a pellet grill is the one which is sweet, smoky, and spicy. In other words, it is a flavor that can’t be replicated by cooking on either gas grills or charcoal grills. You should opt for a pellet grill for several reasons.
A pellet grill is a fuel-efficient device that guarantees a productive consumption of wood pellets. A wood pellet takes about 15 minutes to set up. Therefore, it is way less as compared to the other grill types. You can use your pellet grill to cook dishes low and slow, such as pork shoulder, side of salmon, and brisket. You should opt for a pellet grill if you are willing to spend time cleaning it. You can also check pellet grill tips before using it and depending on your needs, you can opt for a pellet grill.
What Is A Smoker Grill?
A smoker grill is a well-known type of grill equipped to make meat in a long and horizontal chamber placed along the heat source. The primary function served by a smoker grill is to enable you to cook food at relatively low-temperature settings in a smoky and controlled environment. There are two types of smoker grills, one that allows you to cook using direct heat and the other that uses indirect heat. Using a smoker grill makes it easier to replenish the coal without moving your food.
Conclusion
Therefore, it is evident that you can choose from several types of grills. Depending on the source of heating and the fuel type, you can use different kinds of grills. Charcoal grills have always been the most commonly opted option for they offer you the classic smoky flavor. You can easily use a charcoal grill because it assures you of temperature consistency once you reach the desired temperature.
A flat-top grill comes in handy if you love to prepare seafood on a grill. A flat top grill with a circular heating element ensures that your cooking surface area has an even amount of heat. A natural gas grill uses natural gas as the primary fuel source. Although they are slightly expensive, they are a worthwhile investment.
A pellet grill functions both as a smoker and as a grill. When you wish to cook for longer durations, a pellet grill is a viable option. Using your pellet grill, you can prepare briskets, large roasts, and ribs. Lastly, gas and propane grills have been in the market for decades. These grills are primarily chosen for the ease of use that they offer. You can even accessorize your gas grill with items such as lights, side burners, and so on.
In conclusion, there are several grill options out there for you to choose from depending on your requirements.
