A Guide to Choosing the Right BBQ

Before buying a BBQ, it’s worth taking a step back and thinking about how you actually want to cook outdoors. Not all barbecues are used in the same way, and understanding the different cooking styles will help you make a much better choice.

Traditional barbecuing typically involves cooking slowly with the lid on, using indirect heat to create tender, flavourful food. Grilling, on the other hand, uses direct heat to cook food quickly at high temperatures — perfect for burgers, sausages and steaks.

You may also come across smoking, where food is cooked slowly using wood chips to add flavour, or smoke grilling, which uses wood pellets or chips as both the heat source and flavour. These methods offer more variety, but they also require a BBQ that can handle them properly.

What to Consider Before Choosing a BBQ

Choosing the right BBQ isn’t just about style, it’s about how it fits into your space and how you plan to use it.

Start by thinking about the size of your outdoor area. A large garden gives you the flexibility to choose a bigger, more permanent BBQ, while smaller spaces or patios may require something more compact or portable.

You should also consider how many people you’ll usually be cooking for. It’s easy to plan for the occasional big gathering, but in reality, most BBQs are used for smaller groups. Choosing a size that suits your regular use will make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

The type of food you cook matters too. If you tend to stick to simple options like burgers and sausages, a smaller grill will often be enough. If you enjoy cooking larger cuts of meat or experimenting with different recipes, a larger BBQ will give you more flexibility and cooking space.

Finally, think about practicality. Features such as side shelves, preparation space and storage can make a big difference, especially if you don’t have a nearby table or easy access to your kitchen.

Choosing the Right Type of BBQ

Once you’ve considered your space and cooking style, the next step is choosing the type of BBQ that suits you best. The three main options are charcoal, gas and portable BBQs.

Charcoal BBQs: Traditional Flavour and Control

Charcoal BBQs are often seen as the traditional choice. They’re ideal if you enjoy the process of cooking as much as the food itself, as they give you full control over heat and flavour.

Cooking with charcoal takes a little more time and effort. You need to light the coals, wait for them to reach the right temperature and manage the heat throughout cooking. However, this extra effort is what gives charcoal BBQs their distinctive smoky flavour.

When choosing a charcoal BBQ, look for features that help you control airflow and temperature, such as adjustable vents. Practical details like easy ash removal and the ability to refuel during cooking can also make a big difference to how easy the BBQ is to use.

Gas BBQs: Convenience and Consistency

Gas BBQs are a popular option for those who want a quicker and more convenient way to cook outdoors. They heat up faster than charcoal and allow you to control the temperature more precisely, making them ideal for regular use.

Instead of managing coals, gas BBQs use burners powered by propane or butane. Multiple burners are particularly useful, as they allow you to cook different foods at the same time and ensure even heat distribution across the grill.

Additional features such as side burners, shelves and preparation space can make gas BBQs even more versatile. While they may not offer quite the same smoky flavour as charcoal, many models are designed to enhance flavour by allowing juices and fats to vaporise during cooking.

Portable BBQs: Flexible and Compact

Portable BBQs are a great option if you have limited space or want something you can take with you. They’re ideal for smaller gardens, balconies, camping trips or days out.

Although they are smaller, the same principles still apply when choosing one. You’ll need to consider cooking space, fuel type and how easy it is to transport. For gas models, the size of the gas bottle is particularly important, especially if you’re planning to take it away with you.

Getting Started and Lighting Your BBQ

Once you’ve chosen your BBQ, it’s important to know how to use it properly.

With charcoal BBQs, the key is patience. The coals need time to heat up and should be left until they are covered in a light grey ash before cooking begins. This ensures a consistent heat and helps prevent food from burning on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.

Gas BBQs are much quicker to get started, but safety checks are essential. Always make sure the BBQ is positioned in a well-ventilated outdoor space and check that the gas bottle and connections are secure before lighting. A steady, strong flame is a good sign that everything is working correctly.

Choosing the Right BBQ for You

Choosing a BBQ comes down to how you like to cook, the space you have available and how often you plan to use it.

Charcoal BBQs offer flavour and a more traditional cooking experience, while gas BBQs provide speed and convenience. Portable BBQs give you flexibility if space is limited or you want to cook on the go.

By thinking about your needs first and understanding the differences between each type, you can choose a BBQ that not only fits your space but also makes outdoor cooking more enjoyable.