Gas Grill Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right One
You have decided to buy a gas grill and you don't know which one to choose and what to pay attention to?
Let's look at the main features and which of them you should pay more attention to, based on the use you want to make.
But before we start, why choose a gas grill over charcoal or electric?
+ Speed: It doesn't require special preparation, like grilling on charcoal.
+ Ease of use: Just turn on the burner, choose the intensity, and grill!
+ Cleanliness: Clean hands, clean grill! Charcoal can often dirty hands, the grill, or even... the floor.
1. How many people will you be grilling for?
This depends on the size as well as the number of burners it has, so you will need to combine them to find the ideal one for your needs.
The table below offers an indicative guide regarding the number of burners, size, and recommended use:
Beyond the number of burners, the presence of a side burner can be especially useful, as it allows you to prepare sauces, side dishes, or even fry food at the same time as grilling.
2. Starting Method
There are 3 ways to light a gas grill, so let's take a look at them!
3. Grate
Most grills have a grate and possibly more than one, usually made of steel.
What we would recommend is that it is worth investing in a cast iron grate, whether it already comes with the grill or you buy it separately, as it offers many advantages such as
- Excellent heat retention: Cast iron retains heat for longer compared to stainless steel or enameled steel. This means a stable temperature and more even cooking.
- Ideal for high-heat grilling & grill marks: Thanks to its high heat capacity, it creates intense grill marks on the meat, delivering a professional result.
- Durability: If properly maintained, a cast iron grate can last for decades.
And since we mention maintenance, remember that after each use, you need to oil it with a very small amount and store it in a place protected from the weather
4. Additional Features
Built-in Thermometer: Allows you to monitor the cooking temperature to achieve perfect results.
Fat Collector: During cooking, the fat and juices from the meat fall into the collection tray instead of accumulating inside the grill. This reduces the buildup of burnt residues and makes cleaning much easier, improving the lifespan of your grill. At the same time, it reduces the risk of flare-ups, as the fat does not fall directly onto the flames.
Infrared Burner: Instead of heating the air around the food, it emits heat directly to the food through radiation. This way, it reaches particularly high temperatures (up to 900 degrees) much faster, ideal for searing and crispy crusts. Avoid it if you want a slow juicy result, as that is not its purpose.
5. Placement / Mobility
Depending on where you want to have your barbecue and how often you want to move it, there are 3 categories.
Freestanding: These are large in size and combine the barbecue with a base on which the gas cylinder is placed. It is especially useful to have a storage cabinet for the gas bottle, so that it is protected from weather conditions. At the same time, if you want to move it often, make sure it has wheels as it will make your life much easier.
Tabletop: Light and small, they are placed on a table or counter. They are connected to smaller cylinders, although there is no size restriction. They are good options for frequent moves such as camping, as well as for small spaces, such as balconies.
Built-in: They are intended for permanent installation in outdoor spaces, so they become one with a barbecue you have in the yard or balcony (I'm jealous). Obviously, you cannot move them.
6. Gas
Since it is a highly flammable material, it requires some caution, but that is not a reason to avoid a gas grill, as with a little care and the proper accessories, you will have absolutely no problem.
In addition to the cylinder, you will need to get a hose and a pressure regulator. The first connects the cylinder to the grill and the second regulates the gas pressure so that its flow is controlled and safe. At the same time, you can get a hose and regulator set so you do not have to buy them separately.
Finally, keep the following tips in mind so you never have any worries
- Avoid storing it inside the house
- Always keep it in an upright position
- Keep it away from heat sources when you are not using it
7. Grill Maintenance / Storage
To enjoy your grill for many years, you need to follow certain tips for its proper maintenance and storage.
- Always keep it in a well-ventilated area away from moisture and rain
- Never leave the grill dirty as food residues will cause rust. For convenience, you can clean it while it is still warm
- If it has a grease collector, empty it to avoid flare-ups during future grilling
So choose the grill that is right for you and from us, happy grilling!
Be the first to leave a comment!