Gas Barbecues

Gas barbecues are widely favoured for their ease of use and rapid heat-up times. They’re ideal for those who value convenience without sacrificing performance.

Pros:

• Effortless Start-Up: Gas grills ignite quickly, reaching optimal temperatures in minutes.
• Temperature Precision: Built-in controls allow fine-tuned adjustments, ensuring even cooking across a range of dishes.
• Ease of Cleaning: The absence of ash simplifies clean-up compared to charcoal models.
• Versatility: Many include additional features such as side burners and rotisseries.

Cons:

• Mild Flavour: While efficient, gas grills lack the smoky essence produced by other fuel types.
• Initial Investment: High-quality gas grills can be expensive, although operating costs are moderate.
• Limited Portability: Models tied to natural gas lines restrict mobility.

Suggested Brands:

• Weber (Genesis Series)
• Napoleon (Prestige Pro Series)
• Broil King (Regal Series)

Steve’s Opinion: A gas grill is always useful to have, quick to get up and running, when you consider the weather in this country it may be the best choice.

Charcoal Barbecues

For purists seeking authentic barbecue flavour, charcoal grills are the gold standard. They run on briquettes or lump charcoal, delivering unmatched smokiness.

Pros:

• Enhanced Flavour: The smoke from burning coals imparts a rich, distinctive taste.
• High Heat: Ideal for searing and achieving char marks on steaks etc.
• Cost-Effective Options: Basic models are affordable and easy to find.

Cons:

• Time-Intensive: Lighting and preparing coals requires patience and practice.
• Manual Temperature Control: Adjusting heat involves managing coals and air vents.
• Clean-Up Challenges: Ash and residue require careful disposal.

Suggested Brands:

• Weber (Original Kettle)
• Big Green Egg (MiniMax)
• Char-Griller (Outlaw Series)

Steve’s Opinion: If you are just starting out on your BBQ journey there nothing better than a simple Weber Kettle. less than £100, You can cook anything on it and you can develop yours skills first before you upgrade

Pellet Grills

Pellet grills bridge the gap between convenience and flavour. Using compressed wood pellets as fuel, these grills offer precision and versatility.

Pros:

• Consistent Flavour: Wood pellets infuse food with deep, smoky undertones.
• Versatility: Suitable for smoking, roasting, grilling, and even baking.
• Automated Temperature Control: Digital settings simplify operation, maintaining consistent heat levels.

Cons:

• Expense: Both initial purchase and ongoing pellet costs are higher than other options.
• Reliance on Electricity: Operation requires a power source, limiting portability.
• Maintenance Requirements: Frequent cleaning is necessary to prevent clogging.

Suggested Brands:

• Traeger (Pro Series)
• Pit Boss (Sportsman Series)
• Green Mountain Grills (Daniel Boone Prime)
• Weber Smokefire

Steve’s Opinion: I love my pellet grills, when you are cooking commercially I love the consistency they give me and their so simple to use. Set it and leave it. Great for smoking, not so good for searing a steak.

Kamado Grills

Kamado grills, with their ceramic construction and versatile functionality, are a standout choice for serious barbecue enthusiasts. These grills excel at both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.

Pros:

• Exceptional Heat Retention: The ceramic body ensures steady, uniform heat for long durations.
• Culinary Versatility: Perfect for grilling, smoking, and baking pizzas or bread.
• Flavour Depth: Lumpwood charcoal enhances the natural smokiness of foods.
• Durability: Engineered to endure extreme conditions and last for years.

Cons:

• High Cost: Premium quality comes at a price.
• Heavy and Stationary: Their weight makes them less portable.
• Steep Learning Curve: Mastering airflow adjustments for temperature control requires experience.

Suggested Brands:

• Big Green Egg (Large)
• Kamado Joe (Classic II)
• Char-Griller (Akorn Kamado)

Steve’s Opinion: Kamado grills are pretty much the gold standard when it comes to charcoal grills, they are expensive though. Build your skill set before investing in one.

Electric Grills

Electric grills are tailored for convenience and indoor use, making them an excellent option for those with limited outdoor space.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Simply plug in, set the temperature, and begin cooking.
• Year-Round Usability: Many models are designed for indoor use, offering flexibility regardless of weather.
• Compact Design: Perfect for small patios or balconies.

Cons:

• Flavour Limitations: Without open flames, the smoky barbecue essence is absent.
• Heat Constraints: These grills often lack the capacity for high-temperature searing.
• Electric Dependency: Mobility is restricted to areas with power access.

Suggested Brands:

• George Foreman (Indoor/Outdoor Grill)
• Weber (Q Series)
• Cuisinart (Griddler Elite)

Steve’s Opinion: I wouldn’t bother 🙂