When it comes to outdoor cooking, few things are as satisfying as firing up the BBQ and enjoying the smoky, savoury flavours of your favourite foods. However, choosing the right type of BBQ can be a daunting task. Gas BBQs, Charcoal BBQs and Smokers each have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual weekend griller, understanding these differences will help you make the right choice for your cooking style and flavour preferences.
Gas BBQs: Convenience and Control
Pros:
- Ease of Use: Gas BBQs are incredibly user-friendly, offering a simple push-to-start ignition and precise temperature control.
- Speed: They heat up quickly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
- Low Maintenance: Cleanup is straightforward since there's no ash or charcoal residue to deal with.
Cons:
- Flavour: Gas BBQs lack the rich, smoky flavor that comes from burning wood or charcoal.
Charcoal BBQs: Authentic Flavour, Hands-On Experience
Pros:
- Superior Flavour: The unmistakable smoky taste from charcoal grilling is hard to replicate.
- High Heat: Charcoal BBQs can reach higher temperatures, making them perfect for searing steaks and achieving that sought-after crust.
- Affordability: Basic models are typically less expensive than gas grills.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Lighting and preheating charcoal takes significantly longer than starting a gas grill.
- Cleanup: Dealing with ash and leftover coals can be messy and time-consuming.
Smokers: Low-and-Slow Perfection
Pros:
- Unmatched Flavour: Smokers provide the ultimate depth of flavour, thanks to the slow infusion of smoke from wood chips or pellets.
- Set-It-and-Forget-It: Electric and pellet smokers offer automation, making the process less labour-intensive.
Cons:
- Time Commitment: Smoking meat is a slow process, often taking several hours or even a full day.
- Learning Curve: Mastering a smoker takes practice, especially when using traditional wood-fired models.
Which One Is Right for You?
Your choice between a Gas BBQ, Charcoal BBQ, or Smoker ultimately depends on your priorities:
- Go for Gas if convenience, quick cooking, and versatility are your top priorities. It’s the ideal choice for busy families or those who frequently grill.
- Choose Charcoal if you’re a flavour enthusiast who doesn’t mind spending extra time and effort to achieve the perfect sear and smoky taste.
- Opt for a Smoker if you’re passionate about barbecue and want to dive deep into the world of low-and-slow cooking.
A Hybrid Solution?
If you can’t decide, consider a hybrid grill. Our new Everest Pro models have hybrid trays enabling you to get the best of both worlds. Available to purchase as an additional add on, these trays enable you to switch between gas and charcoal or even use a combination of both!
