Buying an electric grill is a tricky deal, considering the number and consideration of key factors involved. The comparison with traditional grills, the taste concerns, the types of electric grills, and the attractive list of add-ons are some thoughts that may trouble the customers the most.
Why Do You Need an Electric Grill?
Why would you need an electric grill when there is an option to buy a charcoal grill or gas grill? Suppose your culinary needs are not confined to only BBQ flavor but also the seared taste of your veggies, meat, or other food items and a cool and convenient way of grilling your food! In that case, electric grills are the perfect appliance that you may need for yourself.
Some gourmet features available in charcoal or gas grills can be missing in your electric grills - the traditional smell and the smokey, aromatic vibe is to die for but you rarely get that in your electric grills. However, the purpose of owning an electric grill is entirely the opposite.
Folks need it either because they need to grill indoors or because they’re living in a locality that doesn’t allow traditional grills. Most of these grills do not produce smoke during grillings because of no flare-ups, so you may conveniently use them in the said settings. From another perspective, electric grills are a healthier alternative than charcoal or gas grills because the carbon monoxide smoke from the former fuel doesn’t pollute the environment.
How Are Electric Grills Better?
Many upside factors make electric grills better for grilling than charcoal or gas grills. You should keep these benefits in mind before buying a grill for yourself.
Flameless grilling
Electric grills do not need open flames to heat the grates. The heating element starts producing heat when you plug in the grill. This makes your electric grill safer than a charcoal grill or gas grill that cooks food in an open flame which may be a safety hazard, especially during windy weather. You have to stay more cautious while using charcoal or gas grills.
Compact size
Electric grills are usually smaller compared to charcoal grills or gas grills. Electric grills are portable and can be easily moved around the patio. You still need a plug for the heating elements and grilling your food. Because of its small size, these grills can also easily be placed on top of your kitchen counters.
Healthier food
Electric grills give you a healthier option for enjoying delicious grilled food. These grills do not emit carbon monoxide like emitted by the charcoal grill, keeping your surroundings safe from smoke or fumes.
Enhanced convenience
Electric grills are convenient to use. You don't have to worry about separately buying the fuel. There’s just a power cord - you plug it in and you’re good to go!
Temperature control
The best part of electric grills is that they have temperature control settings. As a result, you can control the temperature during the grilling process which is not possible in charcoal grills.
Easy maintenance
Electric grills are also easier to clean. You can easily clean the grilling grates using a wet sponge or cloth. Most electric grills have a non-stick coating that does not cause food to stick to the surface during the grilling process.
Types of Electric Grills
Portable electric grill
These electric grills are widely used and can be placed on countertops since they are smaller in size. You can carry them easily to the outdoor locations or keep them indoors and do the grilling safely in your apartment.
Electric grills do not need an open flame to cook your food, and they are relatively safer than charcoal grills which produce more smoke and charcoal fumes. Portable grills do not take much storage space, and you can easily carry them with you during trips.
Built-in electric grill
These grills are permanently installed on your outdoor or indoor kitchen space, just like built-in ovens. These are not portable but a valuable appliance installed in your home. These are usually large in size and can grill multiple food items simultaneously.
Here are Some Useful Tips When Shopping For Electric Grills
- Do not buy electric grills that have a very small surface area for grilling. Most grills usually has two sides for grilling, i.e. a ridged griddle and a flat surface, which is always better than the single-sided option (because of the larger surface area).
- All-electric grills have the same function. They use electricity to heat up the grill - so there’s an inevitable need to plug them in. So whether you’re planning for a camping trip or just want to use the grill on your balcony, make sure you’ve got a power outlet nearby if you don’t want to scratch your head at the last minute.
- Electric grills are available in multiple sizes. However, since they’re mostly used indoors, it’s important that you go for a size that you can conveniently place on your kitchen counter.
- The electric grills with built-in timers and heat control panels are safer and more energy-efficient. These features give you a superior grilling experience by allowing you to control the settings according to your food and also set the time required for grilling different food items.
