GETTING FIRED UP
From gas grills to low-and-slow smokers, there's a barbecue for us all
Barbecuing and outdoor entertainment go hand in hand but with a growing number of options to choose from, you'll want to do your homework if you're planning to get all fired up this season.
“When choosing a grill, the first factor to consider is the type of fuel that's right for you, whether it be gas, charcoal, wood pellet or electric,” says chef Michael P. Clive, grill master with Weber Grills.
FUEL TYPE
Gas grills, powered by propane or natural gas, are simple to use, heat up quickly and have dials to easily control cooking temperatures, says Véronique Auger St-onge, category manager of grills and seasonal heat at Rona. “If you don't have a natural gas line at home to plug into, a refillable propane tank is the way to go due to its accessibility and mobility.”
Clive agrees nothing beats the convenience of a gas grill, which offers even heat and cooking performance while ensuring everything you can make in your kitchen can be made outside on the grill.
Griddles are another gas option. “Griddling is one of the year's hottest cooking trends and a very versatile method of cooking. From savoury smash burgers and fajitas to fluffy pancakes, the griddle offers endless possibilities,” he says.
Charcoal grills offer another avenue. “Charcoal grills are making a comeback — upgraded in design and functionality — thanks to the classic grilled flavour they deliver,” says Auger St- Onge. “Lightweight and easily mobile, charcoal grills allow for more control over cooking temperature than gas units but require a learning curve.”
Clive has a similar enthusiasm: “If you want to enjoy a nice, leisurely weekend in the backyard grilling for friends and family, the charcoal grill is perfect for you. Nothing can top the smoky barbecue flavour that only a charcoal grill can create.”
Wood pellet grills generate heat with easy-to-use hardwood pellets, giving food a wood-fire taste. Pellets come in a range of flavours and can be used to smoke, braise, barbecue or sear food, says Auger St- Onge.
“Pellet grills are traditionally used for `low and slow' cooking,” Clive says.
Smoker barbecues use heat from smoke to also enable low-and-slow cooking that makes food extra tender and flavourful. They can take between three and 12 hours to fully cook food and deliver a variety of flavours depending on the fuel source, Auger St-onge says.
Electric grills are perfect for those living in apartments. “Balcony-friendly and portable, electric barbecues are smokeless yet can deliver the same char, searing and authentic smoky flavours as a standard propane grill,” she says.
Outdoor pizza ovens are the “latest craze, enabling homeowners to create their own restaurant-quality stone-baked pizza in the backyard. Different pizza oven options can be powered by wood, charcoal or gas, delivering fresh, authentic stone-baked pizza in as little as 60 seconds,” Auger St- Onge says.
USING YOUR GRILL
After you've decided on fuel type, consider how you plan to use your grill. “Will you be cooking for yourself, for two or for a family? Would you like your unit to be integrated into an outdoor kitchen, mobile or portable for a day at the beach or park?” Auger St-onge asks.
“You can then choose the right size, cooking surface area and number of burners that best meet your needs. If you're grilling for a family of four, a two-burner gas grill or small to medium charcoal grill will work well. If you're entertaining a crowd, you may need something larger.”
GRILL FEATURES
You'll also want to think about preferred grill features. “Gas grills, for example, can have anywhere from two to six burners, multiple sear zones, a rotisserie system, integrated smoker box, side burners and more, so it's up to you to decide what's necessary to fulfil your grilling needs and budget,” Clive says.
“A new grill can significantly vary in price so it's important to decide which features are a priority for you to ensure you stay within your price range. When you invest in a grill, you're investing in a home appliance,” he says.
“You want to ensure the one you purchase will last and is backed up by comprehensive warranties and customer service. Finally, the size of your outdoor space is another key consideration. You have a lot more possibilities with an open deck and large backyard than you do with a small balcony.”