Great Options for Grilling

Nearly 8 out of 10 (or 77 percent) households own an outdoor barbecue grill or smoker, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association in Arlington, VA. Consumers are becoming more particular about what their grills should do. “They’re demanding the same kind of performance outside that they get inside, with the same kind of control,” says Rob Schwing, VP of marketing and product development at Char-Broil, in Columbus, GA. The industry has responded by developing more state-of-the-art technologies.

Infrared is Hot

Consumers want grills to replicate that great steakhouse taste that they love so much but can’t seem to duplicate on their home grill. Now they can come closer, thanks to an infrared grill technology that replicates the high temperatures and flavors that restaurants use. Although infrared is reserved for the higher-end grills, more manufacturers are incorporating it into their designs this year. “The biggest different between infrared and other grills is the heat,” says grilling expert Alicia Kaper of CSN Stores. “It’s a higher temperature than gas, electric, and charcoal and provides the best searing ability. You don’t use hot air, so your food won’t dry out, and it’s so hot that it cuts down on half the time and energy you would usually use to cook.”

Surface Trends

Say good-bye to food with black grill lines. New flattop grills cook on an even surface and trap the flames away from the food. And with the increase in steel costs, porcelain is now the new stainless steel. Many grill makers are now offering more affordable porcelain grills that come in a variety of colors to match your outdoor kitchen or patio set.

Size Matters

Bruce Frankel, the founder of SpitJack, a website that sells grills, fire pits, and whole hog cookers, says that when buying grills, his customers think about BTUs (unit of energy). “The more BTUs, the better,” he says. “Men want firepower, and I don’t see grilling any other way.”

On the other hand, Deidra Darsa, media relations manager of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), says portable grills are a big hit. “People want grills they can use at home and take to tailgating parties and on picnics,” she says.