Gas Barbeque

Speed and Convenience

The top advantages of the gas grill are speed and convenience. To fire it up, you push a button. You do not have to cope with measuring out messy briquettes or spraying on starter fluid. You don't have to wait forever for the coals to smolder into a gray heap of ash. Just few minutes after you turn on the gas, you are ready to go. So even if you impulsively decide to cook outdoors minutes before mealtime, you can do it without fuss. One caveat: if you are using propane rather than a natural gas hookup, you may be vulnerable to "empty tank" syndrome! You have to pay enough attention to keep your tank full or your spontaneity will be frustrated!

Precision and Control

A gas barbecue gives a more even, controllable heat. That translates to more predictable results and an easier task, especially for amateur cooks. You don't have to be peering at the chicken or kabobs every few seconds. You need not constantly add coals, stoke and tend to the fire. Rather, you can enjoy your own party, mingle with your guests, swig some beer or beverage of choice, or just play with the kids. Gas is simply more reliable and versatile in the hands of all but the true charcoal specialist.

Easy to Clean

A gas grill is much easier to clean. Just heat it up and any juices or bits of food left on the grill will disappear. You don't have to figure out what to do with several inches of ash in the base. After heating, go over any non-stainless steel barbecue with a good wire brush specifically made for cleaning. You may want to oil it every once in awhile and periodically check the controls to make sure everything is working as it should. Otherwise, maintenance is a breeze.

Tasty Results

Finally, the flavor of food grilled on a gas bbq is stupendous. If you fancy the smoky flavor that some believe is the province of charcoal, gas will give it to you with the aid of a simple wood smoker. Any hardwood chip is suitable, although the art and science of choosing the perfect smoky flavor is as important as your underlying recipe. Chips of hickory, apple or mesquite will impart different, subtle flavors to your grilled food. But even without adding smokiness, your culinary masterpieces will retain moisture and flavor because of the exacting temperature control that gas affords. No lingering taste of starter fluid or soot will jeopardize your burger specialties or that rare T-bone.

Gas barbecues are unquestionably superior in ease of use; precision temperature control; simple fuss-free clean-up; and more reliable cooking results. Don't count charcoal out, but for the back-yard chef or quasi-pro, gas is a clear favorite.