BBQ Gas or Charcoal

With the weekend fast approaching and even the threat of a little sunshine, I am thinking BBQ!

I have recently converted to a gas BBQ, think it is so much easier to use. I know people say you don't get the same taste, but beleive me the difference is 9-10 with charcoal all you taste is burnt food!

So do you still use charcoal or are you a gas convert??

Gas for me, ease of use & speed, and the taste argument can be overcome by using marinades, herbs etc

Hi, I have used both and although gas is easier, it just takes away the bbq fun.

Everyone to themselves :))

The taste 'should' come from the fat dripping from the food onto coals burning and giving off smoke. So you can get the same flavours from a gas BBQ.

You shouldn't get the burnt taste from Charcoal, IF you let the coals stop burning.

However, for me it is an artform, and one of the few skills at home I get to show off (running from a relatively low heat to effectively roast a larger piece of meat, medium heat for sausages, chicken, a searing hot temperature for steak and fish, and then getting the veggies in there somewhere, and retain some heat for the bananas with chocolate for pudding.

Of course I always use wood charcoal instead of briquettes

PS I have to compete with Father in Law as well, who was taught how to BBQ in Portugal, and they do stunning BBQs (grilled sardines on the beach)

It makes things much easier for my hubby to provide us with delicious food... while I encourage from the sidelines, usually accompanied by a glass of wine

Yes Anne, but is it gas or charcoal???

B&Q have some good BBQ deals

Gas is easier and more controllable. Proper charcoal (not briquttes ) gives the best flavour.

Gas all the way, and but it from a specialist to get the best advice.

For me it is a macho man thing. It is my preserve, I don't want women anywhere near it and so it is, for me, charcoal. Gas is for wimps ......... gas is far too easy ....... but then again, I drive an automatic car. Besides, if the women find out that you can cook by gas, then you will be forced to cook indoors.
I do like living on the edge .

Whatever BBQ kit you have or are looking for, I would have to recommend Barbecook. Great kit, you will get 15 years life easily out of them and the lighting up design is wonderful. THey aren't easy to come by but if you are looking for a good quality BBQ then have a chat with James Marshall at www.mowersrus.co.uk (it isn't a blatant advert, I happen to know the firm and the kit).

Gary

Gas easier - You turn it on and it's ready to use and tastes (almost) the same as charcoal

Charcoal - If you have the time and nerve to leave it for about an hour after you've lit it, then it cooks without burning - Honest!! - Leave a cool spot (no charcoal area) so if it flairs up (oil from the sausages/burger etc) you can move the food out of the flames and it won't burn and become charcoaled!!

After use cleaning is much easier with a gas one and some (my father-in-laws) just go in the dishwasher after use, but remember the charcoal ashes are great for the roses!!

I prefer ............ charcoal, especailly with steak/chicken and my great homemade burgers (with loads of garlic!)