Choosing a Charcoal Barbecue: The ProduceBlog Guide

Materials

Carefully evaluate both the material of the barbecue (meaning the frame, the body and any other parts) and that of the grill(s). Obviously the best for strength, weight and ease of cleaning is stainless steel; a steel-aluminium alloy is also a good choice, as is aluminium alone, which is light and practical (especially for portable barbecues), as long as it does not contain nickel.

Dimensions, weight and wheels

Size is a parameter that should be considered according to two indications: the frequency of use of the BBQ and the food you intend to prepare on it. Let’s say that, on average, each diner occupies a space of about 20 x 20 cm on the grill; based on this figure, we can calculate the width of the grill according to how often we use the charcoal barbecue. Also, remember that different dishes have different sizes, so for example a steak is normally larger than vegetables or a piece of salmon.

Therefore, based on size and material, think about weight; the barbecue should certainly be heavy enough to be stable and firm, but light enough to be movable, either for storage after use or in case of sudden and necessary movement. Finally, if it were equipped with two solid wheels, this would be a major plus in terms of convenience.

Type

We have several types of charcoal barbecue; in general, we can distinguish them according to where we will use them most. Among the many alternatives available, to mention the most common, we can talk about:

• garden barbecues: the largest and most common models, designed for barbecues with family and friends. Fixed or trolley-mounted, they often have a lid with a thermostat and various options;
• Portable and camping BBQs: lightweight models, usually foldable, designed to be easily and safely transported by car or on foot, like a suitcase, once closed. They usually have a support frame and a simple grill;
• Balcony or table models: these are the smallest and can be easily stored in a kitchen cabinet. They are grills with a closed charcoal part, equipped with a smoke-free system, so they can be placed in the middle of the table without disturbing diners. Perfect for small groups or romantic dinner parties.

Lid and ventilation

Some models, especially garden models, have a lid; this serves to circumscribe the cooking area, so that all the dishes are cooked more evenly. This creates a cooking chamber, the temperature of which can be kept under control by the thermostat built into the lid.

It is important to check the ventilation of the lid; almost all the best models have a vent, or nozzle, or window, with an adjustable opening, to keep the passage of air and the exchange with the smoke inside constant and optimal, so as not to corrupt the food during cooking.

Location

Depending on its size, you should choose where to place your charcoal barbecue. Ideally, you should arrive at the time of purchase with this detail already clear. As a fixed suggestion, however, remember one detail: whether it is a garden, table, balcony or camping barbecue, the important thing is that it should always be at least 1.5 m away from the table and from any flammable sources (trees, bushes). Also, make sure that the cooking area is easily ventilated.

Accessories

There are several accessories that you can buy with your BBQ (or that are often supplied with it). Starting with cases for portable barbecues, through to outdoor covers for garden barbecues; also complete sets of cooking utensils, with knives, sauce syringes, tongs, skewers and more, often stored in handy bags (such as the one from the brand Mr.Tuzza, which is complete and equipped). Lastly, accessories incorporated into the barbecue itself, such as smokers, skewers with an electric motor to turn them, and drawers for collecting embers.