By Richard Romando
The basic structure of all gas grills is a metal box made of either stainless steel or cast aluminum. Propane grills have a tank and a regulator. Natural gas grills use your home gas supply meter as the regulator. Regulators of propane tanks are generally preset by the manufacturer and should not be adjusted. Regulators have a small vent hole that must be kept clean, as clogs are a common problem with them.
The fuel, either propane or natural gas, passes through venturi tubes through to the control valve and from there to the burner. Venturi tubes connect the control valves to the burners and allow the mixing of fuel and air. This causes flames to be produced. Control valves have several components and are custom made for the manufacturer. The burners themselves may be of any shape. Commonly seen shapes are oval, H-shaped and even bowtie shaped.
Above the burner some gas grills have a grate that holds ceramic briquettes. Some gas grills have a metal barrier or a lava rock. This part needs to be replaced periodically as burnt grease settles on it and there are chances of unpleasant odors settling on food because of this.
A side burner is an important accessory in a gas grill. This allows for a little simultaneous cooking like soup and the like. When cooking away from home, it is important to boil any water that you take from an outside tap. For such purposes a side burner comes in very handy.
The use of accessories like cooking grids, rock rates, heat plates, heat angles, warming racks, handles, heat indicators, igniters, baskets, brushes, grill covers, grill and tank accessories, freestanding burners, lighters, maintenance products, briquettes and rotisseries makes working with a gas grill convenient and interesting.
Additional accessories like beverage centers, paper towel dispensers, umbrellas, a refrigerator, beer taps and ice chests are chosen by a few users. Though these accessories are not of any functional use in the gas grill, their presence does add a good measure of luxury to the outdoor eating experience.Gas Grills provides detailed information on Gas Grills, Outdoor Gas Grills, Natural Gas Grills, Portable Gas Grills and more. Gas Grills is affiliated with Barbecue Grills.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Romando
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
How to Choose A BBQ Grill and BBQ Smoker
By Brian Pearcy
To start we must first dispense with some basic concepts. Barbecue refers to low and slow cooking (think pulled pork, beef brisket, tender and juicy pork ribs). Grilling refers to hot and fast cooking (think steaks, pork chops, hamburger and various kinds of kabobs).
Generally speaking, barbecue refers to cooking with wood over a low heat in order to bring the internal temperature of the meat being cooked up to edible temperature slowly so as to avoid losing moisture (i.e. tenderness) from large cuts of meat. For example, cooking a 14 lb. beef brisket using the hot and fast method will most likely leave you with meat that is burnt on the outside and raw in the middle. Many barbecue cooks use indirect heat (i.e. fire source is offset from the cooking chamber) versus direct heat (i.e. first source is located in direct proximity to the cooking chamber) to help combat this issue.
Some examples of indirect-style barbecue cookers versus direct style barbecue cookers are the ever-popular "tank-style" cookers, such as those made by Ben Lang and David Klose; compared to the increasingly popular style of direct-style barbecue cookers like the Primo, Kamado and Big Green Egg, or simply BGE for short. There are many variations and options for cookers other than these specific manufacturers.
For most people, the choice of cookers is highly-dependent upon several factors including: 1) availability of wood and the cost of buying wood versus availability of charcoal (lump or briquettes), 2) room for storing the cooker when not in use, 3) budget, 4) experience, and 5) personal preference, or some might call it "ego".
Someone living in an apartment might find it difficult to justify the purchase of a big offset cooker, not only due to a lack of wood supply, but also for a lack of inside storage space when the cooker is not being used. Offset cookers range in price from the typical $150-hardware store budget conscious variety, to the top-of-the-line pits manufactured by a master pit builder that can get real expensive, real fast. Typically, someone with a single-family home with a garage for storage, or a storage shed of some type, would be more likely to own an offset cooker versus someone living in an efficiency-sized apartment in the heart of a downtown metropolitan area.
The compact size of a ceramic grill like the Big Green Egg and ready availability of charcoal might suit someone living in an apartment better. If portability is a consideration, the offset is less of an option, since it takes usually takes two or more people to comfortably move a small offset (without wheels), or even a vehicle to move some of the larger ones with wheels that can weigh upwards of 3,000 lbs.
Anyone can learn to cook some real fine bbq using any of the cookers mentioned above. The ever-popular "kettle" grill can turn-out some good 'que also, with some patience and understanding of proper fire control techniques. I've eaten some excellent bbq made by cooking a whole hog using a chicken wire framed up with metal rods and then perched on top of concrete blocks.
Some obvious advantages of using an offset smoker: 1) larger cooking area (generally speaking), 2) horizontal cooking surface and the ability to cook multiple meats at the same time, 3) bigger physical size creates a feeling of "machissimo", 4) "traditional" method keeps you highly involved in the cooking process because you have to constantly stoke the fire (some might also call this a disadvantage).
Advantages of the ceramic grills like the BGE, Primo, and Kamado: 1) easy to store, 2) ceramic construction holds heat very well, 3) ability to maintain higher temperatures allow use as a grill or smoker, 4) a little charcoal goes a long way, 5) with a little practice, temperature control requires very little effort/monitoring.
Always remember, it's the bbq cook and not bbq cooker or grill that determines the quality of your bbq. Which cooker you choose is matter of personal choice.Brian Pearcy competes in bbq contests sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society and Florida Barbecue Association. He has published more than 400 articles about bbq cooking. Brian authors two bbq web sites: http://www.thebbqguy.com and http://www.bbqguyblog.blogspot.com. His prize winning bbq spice rubs have earned numerous awards.
To start we must first dispense with some basic concepts. Barbecue refers to low and slow cooking (think pulled pork, beef brisket, tender and juicy pork ribs). Grilling refers to hot and fast cooking (think steaks, pork chops, hamburger and various kinds of kabobs).
Generally speaking, barbecue refers to cooking with wood over a low heat in order to bring the internal temperature of the meat being cooked up to edible temperature slowly so as to avoid losing moisture (i.e. tenderness) from large cuts of meat. For example, cooking a 14 lb. beef brisket using the hot and fast method will most likely leave you with meat that is burnt on the outside and raw in the middle. Many barbecue cooks use indirect heat (i.e. fire source is offset from the cooking chamber) versus direct heat (i.e. first source is located in direct proximity to the cooking chamber) to help combat this issue.
Some examples of indirect-style barbecue cookers versus direct style barbecue cookers are the ever-popular "tank-style" cookers, such as those made by Ben Lang and David Klose; compared to the increasingly popular style of direct-style barbecue cookers like the Primo, Kamado and Big Green Egg, or simply BGE for short. There are many variations and options for cookers other than these specific manufacturers.
For most people, the choice of cookers is highly-dependent upon several factors including: 1) availability of wood and the cost of buying wood versus availability of charcoal (lump or briquettes), 2) room for storing the cooker when not in use, 3) budget, 4) experience, and 5) personal preference, or some might call it "ego".
Someone living in an apartment might find it difficult to justify the purchase of a big offset cooker, not only due to a lack of wood supply, but also for a lack of inside storage space when the cooker is not being used. Offset cookers range in price from the typical $150-hardware store budget conscious variety, to the top-of-the-line pits manufactured by a master pit builder that can get real expensive, real fast. Typically, someone with a single-family home with a garage for storage, or a storage shed of some type, would be more likely to own an offset cooker versus someone living in an efficiency-sized apartment in the heart of a downtown metropolitan area.
The compact size of a ceramic grill like the Big Green Egg and ready availability of charcoal might suit someone living in an apartment better. If portability is a consideration, the offset is less of an option, since it takes usually takes two or more people to comfortably move a small offset (without wheels), or even a vehicle to move some of the larger ones with wheels that can weigh upwards of 3,000 lbs.
Anyone can learn to cook some real fine bbq using any of the cookers mentioned above. The ever-popular "kettle" grill can turn-out some good 'que also, with some patience and understanding of proper fire control techniques. I've eaten some excellent bbq made by cooking a whole hog using a chicken wire framed up with metal rods and then perched on top of concrete blocks.
Some obvious advantages of using an offset smoker: 1) larger cooking area (generally speaking), 2) horizontal cooking surface and the ability to cook multiple meats at the same time, 3) bigger physical size creates a feeling of "machissimo", 4) "traditional" method keeps you highly involved in the cooking process because you have to constantly stoke the fire (some might also call this a disadvantage).
Advantages of the ceramic grills like the BGE, Primo, and Kamado: 1) easy to store, 2) ceramic construction holds heat very well, 3) ability to maintain higher temperatures allow use as a grill or smoker, 4) a little charcoal goes a long way, 5) with a little practice, temperature control requires very little effort/monitoring.
Always remember, it's the bbq cook and not bbq cooker or grill that determines the quality of your bbq. Which cooker you choose is matter of personal choice.Brian Pearcy competes in bbq contests sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society and Florida Barbecue Association. He has published more than 400 articles about bbq cooking. Brian authors two bbq web sites: http://www.thebbqguy.com and http://www.bbqguyblog.blogspot.com. His prize winning bbq spice rubs have earned numerous awards.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
How To Have The Best Outdoor Cooking Season
By Jonathan Goodman
There is something about the words barbecue grills that has so many happy connotations. Some remember happy holidays with some great outdoor cooking while others envisage warm summer evenings in their backyard with their outdoor cooking equipment. The best thing about barbecue grilling is it need not be confined to any one season; with the variety and choice available and built in indoor propane grills, indoor electric charcoal grills and tabletop portable grills, there is simply no reason to restrict yourself just outdoors with your cooking equipment, since you can enjoy grilled food even indoors. Smokers and grills are best seen as an extension of your kitchen.
Grills and smokers are of different types and you can choose from:
Propane gas barbecue grills
Charcoal Grills charcoal table grills, small charcoal grills, charcoal and gas grills
Natural Gas outdoor grills
Electric Grills indoor electric grills, electric outdoor grills, indoor electric barbecue grills
Smoker Grills choose from Brinkman electric smoker grills or have custom smoker grills made.
Turkey Fryers and fish cookers indoor turkey fryers, fish cooker smoker combos, propane fish cookers, electric turkey fryers.
For those who enjoy camping portable gas grills for tailgating and portable propane grills are fun. Propane gas grills make good portable bbq grills and are great companions when you travel as you only need to ensure that you have your replacement tank ready to ensure you are not caught out without fuel just when you are dreaming of those juicy steaks dripping in basting sauce.
Great outdoor cooking is incomplete with just the grilling equipment. There are a variety of barbecue grill tools that can enhance the enjoyment, while making it a much pleasanter experience. There are barbecue forks, grids, barbecue skewers and tongs, barbecue turners and thermometers and barbecue tool sets and grill brushes. These help handle the food, keep track of how well the meat is done and also help clear up when you have enjoyed your grilled meals.
Among grilling utensils, cooking woks are a big favorite with barbecuing grill fans for stir frying, steaming and deep-frying. Among these, there is the traditional Chinese wok, hand hammered wok, the more recent stainless steel wok and electric woks. You also get wok pot sets that come complete with a potholder, utensil holder and bamboo turner, fork and tongs.
Smoke flavor can also be achieved with charcoal briquettes, wood briquettes and ceramic briquettes that are a lot easier to use than lump charcoal and less messy. You can also add smoker chips to your gas grill or smoker to get that flavor. There are gas smoker wood chips and electric smoker wood chips. Hickory wood chips for smokers is among the best as it gives the food a strong flavor.
Talking of flavor, why not add a grilling plank to your cooking equipment? Cedar grilling planks are a favorite because cooking salmon on cedar planks makes delectable smoked salmon. Cooking planks have been around a long time and plank grilling is a favorite cooking technique.
Another wonderful cooking technique is rotisserie cooking. Cooking a chicken for a rotisserie grill has never been so easy with the modern day gas grill with rotisserie burner or gas grill rotisserie, which is motorized.
Grill accessories are a boon to the barbecue enthusiast. Barbecue grill accessories are available as charcoal grill accessories and gas grill accessories. Of these the foremost one is the barbecue apron that protects the cook from food stains, and more importantly the heat of the barbecue grill. There are so many mens cooking aprons in different apron patterns. Funny aprons, Novelty aprons, vintage aprons you can have your pick.
Choosing the right grill involves selecting the right outdoor cooking grates. Stainless cooking grates for grills are considered a good choice for their portability and easier maintenance.
Every barbecue cook keeps a grill lighter handy on the off chance that the gas grill lighters ignition may not work. There are good quality stainless steel butane grill lighters and refillable butane grill lighters that can come to the rescue when you are about to give up.
Protecting your barbecue grill is just as important. Outdoor barbecue grill covers keep your grill safe from dust, debris and pests.About The Author: Jonathan Goodman is the owner of Market Merchants an online retailer specializing in home and garden products. My passion for bbq grilling and fireplaces is the core focus of Market Merchants. I am a member of the Hearth Patio Barbeque Association (HPBA), the National BBQ group (NBBQ), and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). We sell these products because we love them and are passionate about consumer living needs. So whether its furniture and decor, home improvement, kitchen and dining, or outdoor living Market Merchants brings a dedicated commitment to the customer and a passion for high quality products. Visit the Market Merchants website: http://marketmerchants.com
There is something about the words barbecue grills that has so many happy connotations. Some remember happy holidays with some great outdoor cooking while others envisage warm summer evenings in their backyard with their outdoor cooking equipment. The best thing about barbecue grilling is it need not be confined to any one season; with the variety and choice available and built in indoor propane grills, indoor electric charcoal grills and tabletop portable grills, there is simply no reason to restrict yourself just outdoors with your cooking equipment, since you can enjoy grilled food even indoors. Smokers and grills are best seen as an extension of your kitchen.
Grills and smokers are of different types and you can choose from:
Propane gas barbecue grills
Charcoal Grills charcoal table grills, small charcoal grills, charcoal and gas grills
Natural Gas outdoor grills
Electric Grills indoor electric grills, electric outdoor grills, indoor electric barbecue grills
Smoker Grills choose from Brinkman electric smoker grills or have custom smoker grills made.
Turkey Fryers and fish cookers indoor turkey fryers, fish cooker smoker combos, propane fish cookers, electric turkey fryers.
For those who enjoy camping portable gas grills for tailgating and portable propane grills are fun. Propane gas grills make good portable bbq grills and are great companions when you travel as you only need to ensure that you have your replacement tank ready to ensure you are not caught out without fuel just when you are dreaming of those juicy steaks dripping in basting sauce.
Great outdoor cooking is incomplete with just the grilling equipment. There are a variety of barbecue grill tools that can enhance the enjoyment, while making it a much pleasanter experience. There are barbecue forks, grids, barbecue skewers and tongs, barbecue turners and thermometers and barbecue tool sets and grill brushes. These help handle the food, keep track of how well the meat is done and also help clear up when you have enjoyed your grilled meals.
Among grilling utensils, cooking woks are a big favorite with barbecuing grill fans for stir frying, steaming and deep-frying. Among these, there is the traditional Chinese wok, hand hammered wok, the more recent stainless steel wok and electric woks. You also get wok pot sets that come complete with a potholder, utensil holder and bamboo turner, fork and tongs.
Smoke flavor can also be achieved with charcoal briquettes, wood briquettes and ceramic briquettes that are a lot easier to use than lump charcoal and less messy. You can also add smoker chips to your gas grill or smoker to get that flavor. There are gas smoker wood chips and electric smoker wood chips. Hickory wood chips for smokers is among the best as it gives the food a strong flavor.
Talking of flavor, why not add a grilling plank to your cooking equipment? Cedar grilling planks are a favorite because cooking salmon on cedar planks makes delectable smoked salmon. Cooking planks have been around a long time and plank grilling is a favorite cooking technique.
Another wonderful cooking technique is rotisserie cooking. Cooking a chicken for a rotisserie grill has never been so easy with the modern day gas grill with rotisserie burner or gas grill rotisserie, which is motorized.
Grill accessories are a boon to the barbecue enthusiast. Barbecue grill accessories are available as charcoal grill accessories and gas grill accessories. Of these the foremost one is the barbecue apron that protects the cook from food stains, and more importantly the heat of the barbecue grill. There are so many mens cooking aprons in different apron patterns. Funny aprons, Novelty aprons, vintage aprons you can have your pick.
Choosing the right grill involves selecting the right outdoor cooking grates. Stainless cooking grates for grills are considered a good choice for their portability and easier maintenance.
Every barbecue cook keeps a grill lighter handy on the off chance that the gas grill lighters ignition may not work. There are good quality stainless steel butane grill lighters and refillable butane grill lighters that can come to the rescue when you are about to give up.
Protecting your barbecue grill is just as important. Outdoor barbecue grill covers keep your grill safe from dust, debris and pests.About The Author: Jonathan Goodman is the owner of Market Merchants an online retailer specializing in home and garden products. My passion for bbq grilling and fireplaces is the core focus of Market Merchants. I am a member of the Hearth Patio Barbeque Association (HPBA), the National BBQ group (NBBQ), and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). We sell these products because we love them and are passionate about consumer living needs. So whether its furniture and decor, home improvement, kitchen and dining, or outdoor living Market Merchants brings a dedicated commitment to the customer and a passion for high quality products. Visit the Market Merchants website: http://marketmerchants.com
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Gas BBQ Grills Provide Tasty Meals
By Curtis Miller
Love cooking outdoors? Then gas bbq grills may be the appliance for you. The bbq grill has come a long way from the charcoal grills we grew up with. Gas bbq grills have done away with needing charcoal or wood and provide a even cooking temperature. This feature makes it possible to prepare anything from steaks to fish perfect everytime.
The bbq grill is a very useful tool to grill meat and also vegetables with ease.
With many styles of gas bbq grills to choose from here is what the experts say to look for in a bbq grill. Porcelain-coated metal bars are best for distributing heat evenly. The best grills heat food evenly across the whole surface the grate. Look for a grill with many temperature settings. More temperature control means better cooked meals. Grates with closely spaced rods are better. This helps keep from dropping foods like fish and vegetables through. Shelves and warming racks are nice to have for chopping and mixing sauces. And warming racks keep food warm while you finish grilling food. Also choose a grill made from high grade U.S. steel.
Another great feature of gas bbq grills is you don't have to buy charcoal or wood for them. They usually come with ceramic briquettes or lava rock which will last for years. Clean up is easier to.
Shopping for a gas bbq grills online has never been easier. The variety of makes and models is increasing everyday. Most manufactures of the bbq grill have all the product information you need to make a decision.Curtis Miller is an accomplished writer in many areas. For additional kitchen articles and tips visit country kitchens
Love cooking outdoors? Then gas bbq grills may be the appliance for you. The bbq grill has come a long way from the charcoal grills we grew up with. Gas bbq grills have done away with needing charcoal or wood and provide a even cooking temperature. This feature makes it possible to prepare anything from steaks to fish perfect everytime.
The bbq grill is a very useful tool to grill meat and also vegetables with ease.
With many styles of gas bbq grills to choose from here is what the experts say to look for in a bbq grill. Porcelain-coated metal bars are best for distributing heat evenly. The best grills heat food evenly across the whole surface the grate. Look for a grill with many temperature settings. More temperature control means better cooked meals. Grates with closely spaced rods are better. This helps keep from dropping foods like fish and vegetables through. Shelves and warming racks are nice to have for chopping and mixing sauces. And warming racks keep food warm while you finish grilling food. Also choose a grill made from high grade U.S. steel.
Another great feature of gas bbq grills is you don't have to buy charcoal or wood for them. They usually come with ceramic briquettes or lava rock which will last for years. Clean up is easier to.
Shopping for a gas bbq grills online has never been easier. The variety of makes and models is increasing everyday. Most manufactures of the bbq grill have all the product information you need to make a decision.Curtis Miller is an accomplished writer in many areas. For additional kitchen articles and tips visit country kitchens
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Barbecue Skills Masterclass - Using Direct and Indirect Heat Properly
By Richard C Myers
Foods are cooked on the grill with either direct or indirect heat. Once you master these techniques, you can grill almost any kind of meat, poultry, or fish, plus an amazing array of vegetables, appetizers, and baked items.
DIRECT HEAT
Food cooks in minutes when placed directly over high heat because the intense temperature browns the outside, concentrating the flavors in a caramelized crust while cooking the inside by heat conduction. The high heat produces foods with a smoky flavor. Direct grilling is best suited to foods that are tender, small or thin, and cook quickly -- in less than 20 minutes -- such as steaks, burgers, kabobs, hot dogs, boneless poultry, fish, and most vegetables.
Direct grilling can be done with the cover up or down. When the grill cover is closed the grill begins to mimic an oven and reflected heat, as well as the heat from the fire cooks the foods. The closed cover lowers the temperature inside the grill by decreasing the oxygen supply to the fire allowing larger foods, such as roasts and bone-in poultry to cook more slowly. It also imparts a smoky flavor.
To set up a gas grill preheat it with the lid closed and then adjust the gas flow settings to the desired heat level.
Electric grills also make use of direct heat, though they generally can't reach as high a temperature as gas or charcoal grills. The good news is that indoor electric grills allow you to enjoy grilled boneless chicken, vegetables, seafood, and hamburgers year-round no matter how much snow is on the ground.
INDIRECT HEAT
Cooking by indirect heat means placing the food adjacent to, rather than directly over the fire. The grill cover must be down. The setup is similar to a horizontal smoker, though cooking takes place in the same chamber as the fire, the temperature is generally higher and wood chips are not required. Indirect grilling is the best of both worlds -- great flavor and tenderness that results from slower cooking. In terms of timing and temperature control it's more forgiving and easier than direct grilling because food cooks evenly without having to be turned.
Indirect grilling enables you to roast large or fatty cuts of meat without burning them to a crisp. It is definitely the choice for cooking whole birds, ribs, brisket, large roasts, whole fish, and whole vegetables such as squash, onions, potatoes, or corn on the cob.
However, for indirect grilling, resist lifting the cover to peek inside. Uncovering the grill allows heat to escape and can add as much as 15 minutes to the grilling time every time the lid is lifted. Let the foods grill for the minimum time specified in the recipe before checking how cooked they are. When cooking indirectly, it's best to use a thermometer to test whether meat and poultry is cooked sufficiently.
Indirect grilling on a gas grill takes less preparation. Light the grill according to the manufacturer's instructions. Turn the setting to high and let the grill preheat for 10 to 15 minutes. Then reduce the heat on one burner to medium or medium-high and turn the other burner off to set up two heat zones. Place the drip pan directly on the lava rocks, ceramic briquettes, or flavorizer bars on the burner that's turned off. Adjust the gas flow to the burner that's on to maintain the desired temperature inside the firebox. Place the food on the grill rack directly over the drip pan.
The drip pan collects the fat drippings from the foods to minimize flare-ups. It also can be used to hold water or other liquid such as juices, beer, or wine to create steam and help add flavor during prolonged cooking. Some gas grills have built-in drip pans. If yours doesn't, use a disposable, foil roasting pan or make your own using heavy-duty foil.
So with these insiders tips and advice fresh in your mind, get out there and GRILL!!Want the best barbecue tips and advice? Want to impress friends and family with your unique grilling recipes? Then visit the Grilling Coach right now.
Foods are cooked on the grill with either direct or indirect heat. Once you master these techniques, you can grill almost any kind of meat, poultry, or fish, plus an amazing array of vegetables, appetizers, and baked items.
DIRECT HEAT
Food cooks in minutes when placed directly over high heat because the intense temperature browns the outside, concentrating the flavors in a caramelized crust while cooking the inside by heat conduction. The high heat produces foods with a smoky flavor. Direct grilling is best suited to foods that are tender, small or thin, and cook quickly -- in less than 20 minutes -- such as steaks, burgers, kabobs, hot dogs, boneless poultry, fish, and most vegetables.
Direct grilling can be done with the cover up or down. When the grill cover is closed the grill begins to mimic an oven and reflected heat, as well as the heat from the fire cooks the foods. The closed cover lowers the temperature inside the grill by decreasing the oxygen supply to the fire allowing larger foods, such as roasts and bone-in poultry to cook more slowly. It also imparts a smoky flavor.
To set up a gas grill preheat it with the lid closed and then adjust the gas flow settings to the desired heat level.
Electric grills also make use of direct heat, though they generally can't reach as high a temperature as gas or charcoal grills. The good news is that indoor electric grills allow you to enjoy grilled boneless chicken, vegetables, seafood, and hamburgers year-round no matter how much snow is on the ground.
INDIRECT HEAT
Cooking by indirect heat means placing the food adjacent to, rather than directly over the fire. The grill cover must be down. The setup is similar to a horizontal smoker, though cooking takes place in the same chamber as the fire, the temperature is generally higher and wood chips are not required. Indirect grilling is the best of both worlds -- great flavor and tenderness that results from slower cooking. In terms of timing and temperature control it's more forgiving and easier than direct grilling because food cooks evenly without having to be turned.
Indirect grilling enables you to roast large or fatty cuts of meat without burning them to a crisp. It is definitely the choice for cooking whole birds, ribs, brisket, large roasts, whole fish, and whole vegetables such as squash, onions, potatoes, or corn on the cob.
However, for indirect grilling, resist lifting the cover to peek inside. Uncovering the grill allows heat to escape and can add as much as 15 minutes to the grilling time every time the lid is lifted. Let the foods grill for the minimum time specified in the recipe before checking how cooked they are. When cooking indirectly, it's best to use a thermometer to test whether meat and poultry is cooked sufficiently.
Indirect grilling on a gas grill takes less preparation. Light the grill according to the manufacturer's instructions. Turn the setting to high and let the grill preheat for 10 to 15 minutes. Then reduce the heat on one burner to medium or medium-high and turn the other burner off to set up two heat zones. Place the drip pan directly on the lava rocks, ceramic briquettes, or flavorizer bars on the burner that's turned off. Adjust the gas flow to the burner that's on to maintain the desired temperature inside the firebox. Place the food on the grill rack directly over the drip pan.
The drip pan collects the fat drippings from the foods to minimize flare-ups. It also can be used to hold water or other liquid such as juices, beer, or wine to create steam and help add flavor during prolonged cooking. Some gas grills have built-in drip pans. If yours doesn't, use a disposable, foil roasting pan or make your own using heavy-duty foil.
So with these insiders tips and advice fresh in your mind, get out there and GRILL!!Want the best barbecue tips and advice? Want to impress friends and family with your unique grilling recipes? Then visit the Grilling Coach right now.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
MHP Optimum Series (TJK Model) - Gas Grill Review
By Derrick Riches
The Bottom LineThis is the direct descendant of the first backyard gas grill. It is made to last with solid construction. This grill is a work horse that really delivers. The large cast aluminum base and body with stainless steel components give it a good solid feel. MHP is known for high, even heating, and good grill performance.ProsSolid, durable constructionEven heating at 40,000 BTUsDurable stainless steel burners. ConsLack of innovation in appearance gives this grill an outdated look. Extra features, are just that, extra. Description434 Square inches of primary cooking area and a total of 645 square inches cooking surface.High profile lid gives lots of room from grilling the really big stuff.Traditional style ceramic briquettes protect the stainless steel burners and offer clean grilling.Heavy two piece stainless steel rod cooking grate for good searing.H type stainless steel dual burner.Rotary ignition.Gas guard regulator and leak detector delivers safe and reliable fuel.Guide Review - MHP Optimum Series (TJK Model)Modern Home Products (MHP) was the first company to produce gas grills for the backyard market. If you are accustomed to the gas grills of old, you'll find this a welcome choice. The no metal "flavor" plates in this grill, that has high quality porcelain coated ceramic briquettes for even heat distribution, smoke creation and burner protection. This grill looks and performs like the grills that people once bought and kept for decades. MHP still builds them this way, built to last and to offer great grilling.
If you are so inclined a full array of extra features including rear mounted rotisserie burner and side burner are offered but aren't standard. If you do want to add on these additions, just know that they have the same quality construction as this very well built grill.
The Bottom LineThis is the direct descendant of the first backyard gas grill. It is made to last with solid construction. This grill is a work horse that really delivers. The large cast aluminum base and body with stainless steel components give it a good solid feel. MHP is known for high, even heating, and good grill performance.ProsSolid, durable constructionEven heating at 40,000 BTUsDurable stainless steel burners. ConsLack of innovation in appearance gives this grill an outdated look. Extra features, are just that, extra. Description434 Square inches of primary cooking area and a total of 645 square inches cooking surface.High profile lid gives lots of room from grilling the really big stuff.Traditional style ceramic briquettes protect the stainless steel burners and offer clean grilling.Heavy two piece stainless steel rod cooking grate for good searing.H type stainless steel dual burner.Rotary ignition.Gas guard regulator and leak detector delivers safe and reliable fuel.Guide Review - MHP Optimum Series (TJK Model)Modern Home Products (MHP) was the first company to produce gas grills for the backyard market. If you are accustomed to the gas grills of old, you'll find this a welcome choice. The no metal "flavor" plates in this grill, that has high quality porcelain coated ceramic briquettes for even heat distribution, smoke creation and burner protection. This grill looks and performs like the grills that people once bought and kept for decades. MHP still builds them this way, built to last and to offer great grilling.
If you are so inclined a full array of extra features including rear mounted rotisserie burner and side burner are offered but aren't standard. If you do want to add on these additions, just know that they have the same quality construction as this very well built grill.
Lynx 27-inch Freestanding Gas Grill - Gas Grill Review
By Derrick Riches
The Bottom LineLynx Professional gas grills are among the best there are. This two burner unit is the smallest and most basic of their grills. At around $3,000 you'll be paying a lot for a grill, but you'll get one that cooks great and is built for last. The attention to detail on this grill is fantastic. Heavy 304 stainless steel has welded seams and a near perfect construction. This unit comes standard or in a rotisserie model with infrared rotisserie burner and full kit.
ProsGreat heat outputHeavy, welded constructionConsPricey for a basic grillDescriptionTwo 25,000 BTU cast brass burners470 square inches of primary grilling space50,000 BTU total output from the main burnersElectric IgnitionFull width drip trayComplete 304 stainless steel construction with welded seamsBuilt-in smoker trayCeramic briquette barrierStainless steel cooking gratesComes in optional rotisserie unit with built in rear mounted rotisserie burnerGuide Review - Lynx 27-inch Freestanding Gas Grill ReviewLynx has been making some of the best cooking gas grills on the market for decades. These grills are built to grill with some of the highest attention to detail you'll find. All their grills use high quality stainless steel with welded seams and expert craftsmanship. While this unit is the smallest and most basic of their grills there are loads of options available. It is also designed on cart or as an insert.
This Lynx grill uses two "red" cast brass burners that each pump out 25,000 BTUs, more than enough for the 470 square inches of primary cooking space. These burners will probably last longer than you will. This grill also uses traditional ceramic briquettes in it's vaporization barrier giving great radiant heat and excellent grease drainage. The 304 stainless steel is thick, durable and polished to a high finish. While this unit may not look terribly modern by today's standards the construction is amongst the best.
At around $3,000 you'll be spending a lot for this grill but it looks great in any enclosure. It is a perfect grill for custom projects and comes natural gas or propane.
The Bottom LineLynx Professional gas grills are among the best there are. This two burner unit is the smallest and most basic of their grills. At around $3,000 you'll be paying a lot for a grill, but you'll get one that cooks great and is built for last. The attention to detail on this grill is fantastic. Heavy 304 stainless steel has welded seams and a near perfect construction. This unit comes standard or in a rotisserie model with infrared rotisserie burner and full kit.
ProsGreat heat outputHeavy, welded constructionConsPricey for a basic grillDescriptionTwo 25,000 BTU cast brass burners470 square inches of primary grilling space50,000 BTU total output from the main burnersElectric IgnitionFull width drip trayComplete 304 stainless steel construction with welded seamsBuilt-in smoker trayCeramic briquette barrierStainless steel cooking gratesComes in optional rotisserie unit with built in rear mounted rotisserie burnerGuide Review - Lynx 27-inch Freestanding Gas Grill ReviewLynx has been making some of the best cooking gas grills on the market for decades. These grills are built to grill with some of the highest attention to detail you'll find. All their grills use high quality stainless steel with welded seams and expert craftsmanship. While this unit is the smallest and most basic of their grills there are loads of options available. It is also designed on cart or as an insert.
This Lynx grill uses two "red" cast brass burners that each pump out 25,000 BTUs, more than enough for the 470 square inches of primary cooking space. These burners will probably last longer than you will. This grill also uses traditional ceramic briquettes in it's vaporization barrier giving great radiant heat and excellent grease drainage. The 304 stainless steel is thick, durable and polished to a high finish. While this unit may not look terribly modern by today's standards the construction is amongst the best.
At around $3,000 you'll be spending a lot for this grill but it looks great in any enclosure. It is a perfect grill for custom projects and comes natural gas or propane.
Can I add lava rocks to my gas grill if it didn’t come with them?
By Derrick Riches
Question: Can I add lava rocks to my gas grill if it didn’t come with them?
Answer: Gas grills are designed with a certain configuration in mind. The burner layout has to work with the shape and size of the grill as well as the vaporization barrier that sits between the burners and the cooking grate. Changing this configuration can not only reduce the evenness of the heat generated by the grill but can cause problems with the burners over time.
What I call the vaporization barrier is that thing that sits over the burners. It protects the burners by getting hot and causing drippings to burn or vaporize. This keeps the burners from getting coated in corrosive grease, getting clogged and simply failing to work. The vaporization barrier also helps distribute heat. In the past most all gas grills had either lava rocks or ceramic briquettes. The briquettes were more expensive and tended to end up in more expensive grills. Now days most gas grills have some kind of metal plate that distributes the heat and burns or at least channels grease away though there are still units made with ceramic briquettes. Whether this is truly a better method remains to be seen. A heavy metal plate can hold and distribute heat better than lava rocks, but of course metal has a nasty habit of rusting.
So for better or worse it is best that you leave your grill the way it was designed. If it didn’t come with lava rocks or ceramic briquettes then don’t try adding them.
Question: Can I add lava rocks to my gas grill if it didn’t come with them?
Answer: Gas grills are designed with a certain configuration in mind. The burner layout has to work with the shape and size of the grill as well as the vaporization barrier that sits between the burners and the cooking grate. Changing this configuration can not only reduce the evenness of the heat generated by the grill but can cause problems with the burners over time.
What I call the vaporization barrier is that thing that sits over the burners. It protects the burners by getting hot and causing drippings to burn or vaporize. This keeps the burners from getting coated in corrosive grease, getting clogged and simply failing to work. The vaporization barrier also helps distribute heat. In the past most all gas grills had either lava rocks or ceramic briquettes. The briquettes were more expensive and tended to end up in more expensive grills. Now days most gas grills have some kind of metal plate that distributes the heat and burns or at least channels grease away though there are still units made with ceramic briquettes. Whether this is truly a better method remains to be seen. A heavy metal plate can hold and distribute heat better than lava rocks, but of course metal has a nasty habit of rusting.
So for better or worse it is best that you leave your grill the way it was designed. If it didn’t come with lava rocks or ceramic briquettes then don’t try adding them.
Charcoal Briquette Manufacturing Is Environmentally Friendly
By Paul Yates
It's interesting to note that before Henry Ford made the BBQ grill popular by link selling it to his cars with the vision of day trips and picnics, charcoal was nothing but a waste product left over from the recovery of acetic acid and methanol. In the early 1900's after more efficient and less expensive methods were developed for synthesizing acetic acid and methanol, charcoal production declined only to be revitalized by the development of the briquette for recreational cooking.
Converted to mass production by Ford in the 1920's charcoal briquettes are made of two primary ingredients, one of which is basically traditional lump wood charcoal referred to a char. It is added to give the briquette its wood smoke aroma and also because it's easy to ignite. The other major ingredient is coal or anthracite which is added to produce a high temperature and long lasting fire.
Ash whitening agent is added to let the chef know when the BBQ is ready to cook on (and still people burn their food by not being sufficiently patient!) The final ingredients are a starch binding agent and an accelerate.
The first steps in the manufacturing of briquettes are to prepare both the char and the coal and this is done by different methods of controlled burning that drive off the moisture and volatile components. Once complete the finished products are pulverized ready for blending.
To make the briquette, the char and the coal is mixed in the correct proportions with the starch binder and fed into a blender where it is thoroughly mixed. Despite having been desiccated, the mix still has significant water content and this is necessary to help form the briquettes.
The briquettes are formed and dropped on a conveyor where they pass through a further drying process but being heated up from 40°C to 135°C for approximately four hours. During this process the moisture content of the briquette will reduce from about 35% to 5% and at the end they will either be stored or pass directly through to an on line bagging machine.
It depends on the final product specification but it's at the bagging stage that organic solvent may be added (using an atomizer) just before bagging and this produces instant light briquettes. Usually these are put into smaller paper bags so that the barbecue enthusiast can simply pick up an individually wrapped pack and light the paper without having to remove the briquettes from the bag.
Because of the use of fossil fuels in the manufacture of briquettes and the various heat drying processes involved it's arguable that lump wood charcoal is more environmentally friendly however two points have to be borne in mind.
The first is that the drying process drives off volatile gases and these gases can be used to fuel the driers themselves. Whether this is completely sustainable I would doubt however the modern briquette manufacturers do take the environment seriously and now manufacture their char from wood shavings and sawdust i.e. the waste products of the lumber industry.
So whether your choice is lump wood or briquettes not only can you claim to be a traditionalist, you can also be content in the knowledge that you're more environmentally friendly than your gas grilling neighbor. Well at least you'll know your facts and can argue the point.Resources For More Information:
Smoker Grill Recipes - Free BBQ grill recipes & meat smoker cooking ideas on the ceramic barbecue.
Charcoal Barbecue Grills - Find out more about the charcoal grill
Free Barbecue Recipes - Outdoor grilling tips, easy fire pit menus, healthy rotisserie suggestions, best homemade bbq sauce recipes.
It's interesting to note that before Henry Ford made the BBQ grill popular by link selling it to his cars with the vision of day trips and picnics, charcoal was nothing but a waste product left over from the recovery of acetic acid and methanol. In the early 1900's after more efficient and less expensive methods were developed for synthesizing acetic acid and methanol, charcoal production declined only to be revitalized by the development of the briquette for recreational cooking.
Converted to mass production by Ford in the 1920's charcoal briquettes are made of two primary ingredients, one of which is basically traditional lump wood charcoal referred to a char. It is added to give the briquette its wood smoke aroma and also because it's easy to ignite. The other major ingredient is coal or anthracite which is added to produce a high temperature and long lasting fire.
Ash whitening agent is added to let the chef know when the BBQ is ready to cook on (and still people burn their food by not being sufficiently patient!) The final ingredients are a starch binding agent and an accelerate.
The first steps in the manufacturing of briquettes are to prepare both the char and the coal and this is done by different methods of controlled burning that drive off the moisture and volatile components. Once complete the finished products are pulverized ready for blending.
To make the briquette, the char and the coal is mixed in the correct proportions with the starch binder and fed into a blender where it is thoroughly mixed. Despite having been desiccated, the mix still has significant water content and this is necessary to help form the briquettes.
The briquettes are formed and dropped on a conveyor where they pass through a further drying process but being heated up from 40°C to 135°C for approximately four hours. During this process the moisture content of the briquette will reduce from about 35% to 5% and at the end they will either be stored or pass directly through to an on line bagging machine.
It depends on the final product specification but it's at the bagging stage that organic solvent may be added (using an atomizer) just before bagging and this produces instant light briquettes. Usually these are put into smaller paper bags so that the barbecue enthusiast can simply pick up an individually wrapped pack and light the paper without having to remove the briquettes from the bag.
Because of the use of fossil fuels in the manufacture of briquettes and the various heat drying processes involved it's arguable that lump wood charcoal is more environmentally friendly however two points have to be borne in mind.
The first is that the drying process drives off volatile gases and these gases can be used to fuel the driers themselves. Whether this is completely sustainable I would doubt however the modern briquette manufacturers do take the environment seriously and now manufacture their char from wood shavings and sawdust i.e. the waste products of the lumber industry.
So whether your choice is lump wood or briquettes not only can you claim to be a traditionalist, you can also be content in the knowledge that you're more environmentally friendly than your gas grilling neighbor. Well at least you'll know your facts and can argue the point.Resources For More Information:
Smoker Grill Recipes - Free BBQ grill recipes & meat smoker cooking ideas on the ceramic barbecue.
Charcoal Barbecue Grills - Find out more about the charcoal grill
Free Barbecue Recipes - Outdoor grilling tips, easy fire pit menus, healthy rotisserie suggestions, best homemade bbq sauce recipes.
How to Have a Better BBQ with Briquettes
By Jonathan Goodman
Ever since briquettes came on the fuel scene, all charcoal grill enthusiasts have welcomed them as a great alternative to lump charcoal. The main advantage is the non messy use. Moreover, charcoal briquettes are safe and more convenient. In terms of storage also, briquettes are much more convenient than lump charcoal.
Briquettes can be defined as a block of flammable material that fuels a fire and keeps it going. Charcoal briquettes and biomass briquettes are the most popular fuel used by bbq fans. Charcoal briquettes are a good idea because it can give you an almost smokeless fire that is long lasting. This makes it very desirable for outdoor cooking.
They contain binders to pack them tightly, which is what makes them less messy than lump charcoal. The additives that are added to make them ignite quickly burns off in high heat, so that it is not a problem.
Generally, though, charcoal briquettes contain two ingredients. One is the traditional charcoal or char, which makes the briquette light up easily and put that smoke flavor into your favorite recipe. Here hardwoods like beech, birch, hickory, oak or hard maple are used. Pine and other organic material are also used. The other ingredient is coal, which brings about the high temperature and long lasting fire. There are different kinds of coals from the sub bituminous lignite to anthracite, which are used in making charcoal briquettes. Other ingredients used in small percentage are the binding agent made out of corn or wheat. There is an accelerant and a whitening agent like lime for the ash. Seasoned barbecuing specialists can tell when the briquettes are perfectly ready to be used.
There are also wood briquettes, which are essentially made of sawdust. This is considered more environmentally friendly. These are made under high pressure without the necessity for binding material. Wood briquettes can be used for burners that use solid fuel burners other heating systems. Some briquettes are made out of carbonized wood and use vegetable paste as a natural binder.
Briquettes that are injected with fuel for lighting instantly are more expensive than the standard charcoal or wood briquettes. But it is not mandatory to get these, as you can also get your bbq or grill started instantly with chimney starters. Chimney starters work on the simple principle of putting crumpled newspaper at the bottom of a metal flue. The main chamber takes the briquettes. When you light the newspaper, the fire reaches the briquettes, and when they are ready, you can roll out the briquettes on to your grill.
Briquettes from established brand names are packed densely, enabling them burn slowly unlike the cheaper stuff that burns out quickly because it is loosely packed.
Another type of briquettes is the peat briquette made out of natural Irish peat. These are quite easy to light and produce a good flame. Peat briquettes do not contain any additional binders and are all natural. Also, there is no black soot. These are environmentally friendly since their sulphur emission is low. Peat briquettes burn drier than other fuels without any deposit.
Then there are ceramic briquettes that are available in different wood flavors and replace the lava rock. Ceramic briquettes reduce flare ups, as they do not absorb grease. They produce better heat distribution and last longer. Best of all, they are self cleaning.
Briquettes are flexible fuel and can make your electric or gas grill much more efficient. Since they react faster than coal they are easy to light and very handy for domestic fires. Where solid fuel is used, briquettes are suitable.About The Author: Jonathan Goodman is the owner of Market Merchants an online retailer specializing in home and garden products. My passion for bbq grilling and fireplaces is the core focus of Market Merchants. I am a member of the Hearth Patio Barbeque Association (HPBA), the National BBQ group (NBBQ), and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). We sell these products because we love them and are passionate about consumer living needs. So whether its furniture and decor, home improvement, kitchen and dining, or outdoor living Market Merchants brings a dedicated commitment to the customer and a passion for high quality products. Visit the Market Merchants website: http://marketmerchants.com
Ever since briquettes came on the fuel scene, all charcoal grill enthusiasts have welcomed them as a great alternative to lump charcoal. The main advantage is the non messy use. Moreover, charcoal briquettes are safe and more convenient. In terms of storage also, briquettes are much more convenient than lump charcoal.
Briquettes can be defined as a block of flammable material that fuels a fire and keeps it going. Charcoal briquettes and biomass briquettes are the most popular fuel used by bbq fans. Charcoal briquettes are a good idea because it can give you an almost smokeless fire that is long lasting. This makes it very desirable for outdoor cooking.
They contain binders to pack them tightly, which is what makes them less messy than lump charcoal. The additives that are added to make them ignite quickly burns off in high heat, so that it is not a problem.
Generally, though, charcoal briquettes contain two ingredients. One is the traditional charcoal or char, which makes the briquette light up easily and put that smoke flavor into your favorite recipe. Here hardwoods like beech, birch, hickory, oak or hard maple are used. Pine and other organic material are also used. The other ingredient is coal, which brings about the high temperature and long lasting fire. There are different kinds of coals from the sub bituminous lignite to anthracite, which are used in making charcoal briquettes. Other ingredients used in small percentage are the binding agent made out of corn or wheat. There is an accelerant and a whitening agent like lime for the ash. Seasoned barbecuing specialists can tell when the briquettes are perfectly ready to be used.
There are also wood briquettes, which are essentially made of sawdust. This is considered more environmentally friendly. These are made under high pressure without the necessity for binding material. Wood briquettes can be used for burners that use solid fuel burners other heating systems. Some briquettes are made out of carbonized wood and use vegetable paste as a natural binder.
Briquettes that are injected with fuel for lighting instantly are more expensive than the standard charcoal or wood briquettes. But it is not mandatory to get these, as you can also get your bbq or grill started instantly with chimney starters. Chimney starters work on the simple principle of putting crumpled newspaper at the bottom of a metal flue. The main chamber takes the briquettes. When you light the newspaper, the fire reaches the briquettes, and when they are ready, you can roll out the briquettes on to your grill.
Briquettes from established brand names are packed densely, enabling them burn slowly unlike the cheaper stuff that burns out quickly because it is loosely packed.
Another type of briquettes is the peat briquette made out of natural Irish peat. These are quite easy to light and produce a good flame. Peat briquettes do not contain any additional binders and are all natural. Also, there is no black soot. These are environmentally friendly since their sulphur emission is low. Peat briquettes burn drier than other fuels without any deposit.
Then there are ceramic briquettes that are available in different wood flavors and replace the lava rock. Ceramic briquettes reduce flare ups, as they do not absorb grease. They produce better heat distribution and last longer. Best of all, they are self cleaning.
Briquettes are flexible fuel and can make your electric or gas grill much more efficient. Since they react faster than coal they are easy to light and very handy for domestic fires. Where solid fuel is used, briquettes are suitable.About The Author: Jonathan Goodman is the owner of Market Merchants an online retailer specializing in home and garden products. My passion for bbq grilling and fireplaces is the core focus of Market Merchants. I am a member of the Hearth Patio Barbeque Association (HPBA), the National BBQ group (NBBQ), and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). We sell these products because we love them and are passionate about consumer living needs. So whether its furniture and decor, home improvement, kitchen and dining, or outdoor living Market Merchants brings a dedicated commitment to the customer and a passion for high quality products. Visit the Market Merchants website: http://marketmerchants.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
RSS Feed (xml)
