4 days ago
Gas or charcoal: what's the best way to barbecue?
KH, Chelmsford
A. It's an age-old debate among seasoned barbecuers. Purists will say that barbecuing is about the smoke, ritual and flavour that coals bring. Gas fans argue their method is quicker and more efficient.
• Kitchen Clinic: What are the pros and cons of cooking with an air fryer?
It comes down to the trade-off you're willing to make. Charcoal will give your food that more complex, barbecuey taste. Add a brick-sized piece of wood to half a small bag of charcoal and you'll have extra-aromatic smoke. Coals can also reach a higher temperature than gas, so you can add that distinctive char to your steaks and burgers.
However, gas grills, which are powered by propane or natural gas, can be turned on or off at the flick of a switch, instantly igniting so you don't have to spend an hour waiting for the correct temperature. The dial means there's no guesswork in how hot your grill is either. Not to mention how much faster it is to clean up. You can also now add a smoker box to your gas grill. It holds wood chips that, when heated, produce smoke and give your food that woody flavour.
