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A Buyer’s Guide to Grills and Smokers
By this time of year, grill lovers across the country have already grilled up dozens of burgers, steaks and probably a few other not-so-traditional food items. It’s true what they say: The more you grill, the more you want to grill.
Just like there is no shortage of meats, veggies or even fruit you can throw on the grill, there is also a wide variety of grills available.
Whether you grill out several times a week and are looking for a new way to cook in the beautiful outdoors or you’re hoping to grill more this summer, this handy buyer’s guide will illustrate the differences between many popular styles of grills.
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Charcoal grills. In many ways, charcoal is how backyard grilling began. The Weber Original Kettle 22-in Black Porcelain-Enameled Charcoal Grill is as American as apple pie. Purists still prefer charcoal and are liable to have a very strong opinion on this matter. Now, Weber has since added some twists to this American classic. Their 22-inch Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill features push-button ignition. That’s right, push a button to get your coals red hot with ease. There’s also a temperature gauge for perfect results, and a whole lot more.
Gas grill. This might be the type you’re most familiar with, and with good reason. Fueled by propane, these grills fire up with the push of a button. Along with ease and convenience, these units are also versatile. This is really an all-in-one package. Multiple burners allow you to cook up enough for a backyard graduation party or just a few cuts for a family dinner. The end tables give enough space to hold plates and utensils so everything stays within arm’s reach. Easy cleanup and easy cooking make this style ideal for just about anyone.
Offset smokers. A close cousin of grilling, smoking is an art unto itself. For the aspiring pit-masters out there, Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker is a perfect place to begin. Like other offset smokers, it features one long barrel for ribs, briskets — whatever you choose — and a smaller fire box where charcoal or smoker woodchips are placed to burn. The heat from the chips and charcoal cooks the meat, and the heavy steel construction keeps the temperature consistent.
Pellet-style smokers. Let’s be honest, some foods are just better when they're smoked.
Pellet-style smokers use small pellets that burn slowly and give off the perfect amount of smoke. These pellets come in a variety of flavors to give a delicious flavor to pork, beef and just about anything you can imagine.
Of course, along with the pellets, you need the right machine.
The Sportsman Elite Thermotemp XL Propane Smoker is a four-tiered tower-style smoker that just might provide the tastiest way there is to preserve meats. It works by adding woodchips to the hopper and adjusting the temperature so they burn and smoke just right. With a temperature control valve, smoking meats doesn’t get much easier than this! And in case the flame goes out, there is a safety valve shut-off feature that will automatically turn off the propane.
Electric smokers. Just like there are electric grills, so there are electric smokers. Units like the Adventure Series 30 In Digital Electric Smoker have a plug-and-play design that features a remote control digital readout. Simply load the hopper and you can watch your favorite foods smoke from the window on the door.
Along with these main types of smokers, there are numerous differences among the various models. Each grill-master has his or her preferences on what works best for their style.
The new generation of electric grills. You don’t need a backyard or large porch to hone your grilling skills. Modern electric grills allow urbanites and city dwellers to experience the joys of the grilling lifestyle. All you need to do is plug in and enjoy. These are also a perfect choice for people who only occasionally grill and when they do, grill very little.
A word of warning: Grills tend to proliferate. Once you buy one, you start thinking about your next one. Which really, is a great thing!
