Here are a few top tips to help you enhance your BBQ experience.

What size BBQ do you need?

When it comes time to buy a new BBQ, consider the size of your entertaining area, as well as how many people you'll be barbecuing for (most of the time).

Portable BBQ's

These small models are perfect for travel or smaller balconies.

You can still do a killer steak or sausage sizzle on one of these

   

Small BBQ

Larger than a travel BBQ , but still small enough to suit balconies.

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Large BBQ

Suitable for backyards and if you entertain often.

Some are all BBQ, while other offer some great storage options.

You can even get them with integrated drink and wine storage options.

 

BBQ fuel types: Gas, electric or charcoal?

Gas

The most common fuel in Australia, its an instant heat source and thus makes holding a consistant temperature simple.

Electric

As long as you have power, you're ready to go. Don't be impatient though, the down side is they are slower than gas and take some time to heat up.

What are infrared barbecues?

A relatively new innovation, these barbecues run on gas but heat up an infrared element which radiates more heat, cooking food faster. They're designed to replicate a searing effect, as if cooking on charcoal while still retaining the convenience of an instant and adjustable heat source. Due to their intensity, it can take some trial and error when using this method of cooking.

Charcoal

A charcoal or (Coal BBQ) is a taste sensation. Providing that crust on your roast that you just can't get from an oven or Gas. Added to that is the enhanced flavour you get from the coals. Take your time, it will take a little while to master. Invest in a good meat thermometor and you will be on your way sooner than you think. 

   

Pellet smokers

These trendy grills use special hardwood pellets as fuel, infusing your food with a smoky flavour. The pellets go into a large hopper and the required amount is automatically fed through into the fire box. You close the hood and the barbecue does the work for you. Many are Wi-Fi enabled, letting you monitor and control the temperature via an app. There's a bit of a learning curve involved and the cost of pellets could add up.

Features to look for when buying 

Grill/hotplate mix

Most cooks suggest you look for a half-grill, half-hotplate cooking surface, although a larger barbecue provides more flexibility, allowing you to use more of the surface you need and leave part of the barbecue unused. If you live in a coastal area, enamel or stainless steel hotplates are recommended.

Steel or enamel finish

Exterior finishes include painted surfaces, vitreous enamel and stainless steel. 

Powder coated finishes are primarily found on entry level models and can deterioate with heavy use.

Vitreous Enamel is by far the easiest to keep clean and most durable.

Stainless steel has varying degrees of quality. To check the quality, place a magnet on all stainless steel areas. If it sticks, the stainless steel is more likely to rust; if it doesn't, it's a better quality option.

Hood

A good hood will open enough so it doesn't blow smoke in your face with reasonable resistance against accidental closing from gusts of wind. Double-skin hoods will reduce the external temperature. 

Controls

Look for clearly labelled controls with positive stops at both the high and low position. Check to see that they're easy to grip and turn. Knobs that slant out from the fascia are easier to see, ensuring you don't have to bend over. 

Ignition type

Ignition types are usually piezo or electronic. Piezo is where you press a button or one of the gas knobs and it generates a spark to ignite the gas. Some piezo systems direct a jet of flame into the burners to light them more reliably. Electronic ignition uses a battery to create a spark.

Sensible design

Large side trays are useful for placing food and utensils on but be careful not to place plastic items too close to the barbecue as they may melt. Hood handles should have enough space so you don't burn your hands on the hot panel behind them.

The fat tray should be easy to access and replace. It should also be self-centring so it catches all the fat. Look inside the barbecue for minimal cracks and crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate. A curved interior allows fat to drip down into the drip tray and is easier to clean.

Side/wok burner

Often included in larger units, the additional burner is very handy for stir-fries – look for a model with a double or triple ring burner which delivers a higher heat setting, making it more versatile and a better performer. 

Rotisserie

Most of the large models currently available can accommodate a rotisserie and some also have an infrared back burner, which is perfect for roasting a chook.

Trolley

There are many different trolleys available so look out for what will suit your specific needs, such as cupboards or a side burner.

Or you can go for a full custom unit, we can even help you with those.

If you have any questions, just give us a call. We are here to help you get the right product to suit you’re needs.

 

Once you get you're new baby home, try a few of these;

Gourmet Traveller Best 45 BBQ Dishes

Or visit us online first to buy;

Buy BBQ's near me

 

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