The 4th of July is coming up and if you are like me – summer holidays, mean grill time. Growing up, as soon as temperatures started to rise, the grill started firing. I think that my parents grilled most days of the week during the summer.
Until recently, I had never owned my own grill. I always lived in big apartment complexes that wouldn’t allow grills on our patios. Now that I live in a duplex, I ran out and purchased my first grill last summer.
I stood in front of a long aisle of grills – gas, charcoal, smokers – dumbfounded. I had no idea where to begin or what I needed. I know that I’m not an avid griller – and probably won’t be – but I knew I needed a solid grill.
If you are like me and the grill line leaves you perplexed here are some tips that I found from Lowe’s. Full disclosure: I just found this resource and this is by no means an endorsement Lowe’s.
- Pay attention to the weight of the grill. Heavier grills are an indication of durability and quality.
- Decide if you want a charcoal or gas grill. There are advantages and disadvantages for both.
Charcoal: Avid grillers swear by charcoal – more intense “smokey” flavor, but it takes longer for the coals to heat up – like 15-30 minutes.
Gas: Gas grills are cheaper, per use than charcoal. It also takes less time to preheat, so you’re cooking more quickly.
Here are some important questions to ask yourself from Lowe’s:
- What will you be cooking – just the entrees or an entire meal?
- Who are you cooking for? A crowd or just you? Make sure that your grill is big enough.
- What are you cooking? Just steaks or chicken? A small grill do. But briskets and ribs will require more space.
- Are you a daily griller or once in a while? Remember preheat time – if you want to grill quickly, a gas grill might be a better option.
- Where are you going to put your new grill? Make sure to measure first, and find a place that is safe.
No matter the grill you choose, you’re guaranteed to make yourself a delicious meal with the perfect grill for you.
