Charcoal or gas: which is the best choice in a BBQ? People have been arguing this point for many years. There are pluses and minuses to each, but many people have a strong loyalty to whichever type they prefer. But if you're new to barbeque cooking and you don't know where to start, here's a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Gas
* Quick. It only takes 10 minutes or so before you can start cooking.
* The heat is controllable. It gives you the flexibility of pacing the cooking. Some foods need to cook low and slow, while others need high heat for just a short time. Gas can help you easily manage these requirements.
* Versatile. You can use the gas burner on the side to cook some vegetables, and the rotisserie attachment is ideal for slow cooking a roast.
* Flavor. There are those who don't enjoy the taste of food that's been cooked over a gas flame. Plus, you won't get the aromatic flavor of wood smoke that you will with a charcoal flame.
* Easy cleaning. There are no ashes to clean up. Drip trays will take care of most of the mess, and turning the heat up for 10 minutes or so will burn off the rest so it can be easily scraped off.
* Cost conscious. One gas cylinder is enough for 8 hours even at maximum setting.
* The initial cost may be high; however there is a wide range of prices to suit any budget.
* It may prove to be more cost effective in the long run especially if taken good care of, but this depends on the changing prices of gas.
Charcoal
* The taste and aroma of smoked wood can't be beat.
* Initial cost is low, but it may not be efficient in the long run.
* They're slow, both to get started and throughout the cooking. Lighting the briquettes and letting them burn down sufficiently can take up to 40 minutes. This can be a problem if you have a sudden urge for barbeque.
* Timing is important. There is no heat control, so you have to keep a close eye on your food.
* The cost of briquettes may prove to be quite expensive in the long run.
* Ashes are a pain to clean out. The grate is hard to clean, and it takes a long time for the unit to cool down enough to clean it.
Hopefully you'll find these BBQ tips useful in your choice of charcoal or gas. Pick the one that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. Those who lead busy lives might prefer a gas barbeque because they require less time in order to fully cook a meal. However, if you have some time on your hands, you can't beat the flavor that charcoal gives.
Gas
* Quick. It only takes 10 minutes or so before you can start cooking.
* The heat is controllable. It gives you the flexibility of pacing the cooking. Some foods need to cook low and slow, while others need high heat for just a short time. Gas can help you easily manage these requirements.
* Versatile. You can use the gas burner on the side to cook some vegetables, and the rotisserie attachment is ideal for slow cooking a roast.
* Flavor. There are those who don't enjoy the taste of food that's been cooked over a gas flame. Plus, you won't get the aromatic flavor of wood smoke that you will with a charcoal flame.
* Easy cleaning. There are no ashes to clean up. Drip trays will take care of most of the mess, and turning the heat up for 10 minutes or so will burn off the rest so it can be easily scraped off.
* Cost conscious. One gas cylinder is enough for 8 hours even at maximum setting.
* The initial cost may be high; however there is a wide range of prices to suit any budget.
* It may prove to be more cost effective in the long run especially if taken good care of, but this depends on the changing prices of gas.
Charcoal
* The taste and aroma of smoked wood can't be beat.
* Initial cost is low, but it may not be efficient in the long run.
* They're slow, both to get started and throughout the cooking. Lighting the briquettes and letting them burn down sufficiently can take up to 40 minutes. This can be a problem if you have a sudden urge for barbeque.
* Timing is important. There is no heat control, so you have to keep a close eye on your food.
* The cost of briquettes may prove to be quite expensive in the long run.
* Ashes are a pain to clean out. The grate is hard to clean, and it takes a long time for the unit to cool down enough to clean it.
Hopefully you'll find these BBQ tips useful in your choice of charcoal or gas. Pick the one that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. Those who lead busy lives might prefer a gas barbeque because they require less time in order to fully cook a meal. However, if you have some time on your hands, you can't beat the flavor that charcoal gives.
About the Author:
Barbequing makes us think of sunny days, tantalizing aromas and good food enjoyed with great company. For some great tips and advice on the art and science of BBQ, visit BBQ Tips.
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