The Great Debate: Charcoal vs. Gas Grilling
Looking for a new grill for this summer’s grilling season? Well, the first major decision you have you make is to choose between charcoal and gas grills, and that’s a heated debate among grilling purists. To make it even more difficult, you can also consider electric grills, wood pellet grills and braziers. Take a minute to read about each category, then get grilling:
- Charcoal grills. The charcoal grill is the tried and true grilling device, and enthusiasts often speak disdainfully of any other method. To begin with, they say that food simply tastes better when it’s cooked over a pit of charcoal. The charcoal imparts a very special, unique, smoky flavor unavailable from any other technique, and that’s particularly true with steaks. Charcoal grills have other advantages as well, including the lower front-end cost of equipment, and the ancient, almost instinctual pleasure we get from tending a fire. Also, charcoal grills can cook at much higher temperatures than gas grills. Unfortunately, charcoal grills come with a number of disadvantages. First, they take longer to heat up and coals may need to be replenished as you cook. They’re messier to clean, and you can’t adjust the heat easily. They’re often uncomfortable in the heat of the summer. Finally, they can cause some safety hazards and can’t be used too close to your house.
- Gas grills. Gas grills can’t match the smoky taste of the charcoal grill, but they’re more versatile. You can put them almost anywhere - even on a large balcony - because they don’t produce flare-ups from dripping fat. They’re relatively easy to clean and maintain, and they’re fast: just come home from work, turn them on, and you’re ready to grill in about 10 minutes. The propane gas that fuels these grills is easily stored, and it heats up to 500 degrees with a level, consistent flame that cooks evenly. They’re reasonably priced, though they cost more than charcoal grills. Gas grills start at around $130, but you can spend thousand of dollars on the high-end models loaded with pricey extras like side burners and rotisseries.
- Electric grills. Electric grills offer the least authentic grill flavor, but are even more versatile and space-friendly than gas grills. They heat up fast and can be powered by the nearest electric outlet. On the negative side, they can’t generate the high temperatures required to sear foods properly. Electric grills are best for people with small balconies.
- Pellet grills. A pellet grill burns hardwood pellets that come from wood scraps. Surprisingly, pellet grills offer a true hardwood flavor that is superior to charcoal grills. On the downside, pellets are often hard to locate, and the grill itself can cost as much as a good gas grill. One big advantage is that pellet grills can serve as smokers, lending versatility to the purchase.
- Braziers. Some people refer to braziers as hibachis. They’re simple, portable, charcoal-style grills without any frills at all. They’re very cheap, selling for around $20. They work best at tail-gating events, but don’t expect to fit enough food for 4 people on their cooking areas.
Grilling is definitely the ultimate summer experience, but the grills themselves can cause damage to your home. Leaving a grill unattended or using a grill too close to your home can be a serious fire hazard. Make sure your home is protected, no matter what! Let NetQuote connect you with qualified agents who can assess your needs and offer you the home insurance policy that’s right for you.
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