Do-it-yourself barbecue: types, how to make and where to place

All kinds of braziers, which are designed for cooking meat on the street, are perhaps one of the earliest culinary inventions. Over the years, they have remained virtually unchanged; only the material used for their preparation and design options have improved.

One of the most popular types of grills today is the barbecue. Central America is considered its homeland. To fry meat in a barbecue, a mesh is used, which is located a short distance above the coals, which are also on the grill below. The heat produced by the coals is medium. Meat for barbecuing is cut into large pieces across the grain. The meat is not pre-marinated, but during frying it is constantly coated with marinade sauce.

Principle of operation

The principle of operation of the barbecue

It is a convenient device for frying meat, poultry or vegetables. Outwardly it looks like a box on legs where coals or firewood are placed. When the required temperature is reached, skewers are installed on the holders.

Products are cut into small pieces. The skewers are turned over manually or automatically. The designs are distinguished by their individual characteristics, but the process is the same.

Operating principle of a barbecue grill

The design consists of a container for coals on which the grate is placed. Most models are equipped with two layers of grilles, a tray, a table, and wooden handles. Devices are divided into stationary and portable, gas or electric.

With a lid, the barbecue performs the function of a grill: heat treatment is carried out on all sides, and cooking takes little time. The barbecue smokes meat, poultry, and fish.

Operating principle of the smokehouse

Hot smoking occurs according to the following method: products are laid out or hung on the upper grate, sawdust is at the bottom. The smokehouse is tightly closed with a lid, and a fire is lit from below.

The duration of the process is from 2 to 24 hours. The smoking temperature reaches 120°. The structures can be stationary or portable.

Design

1. Fryer (bowl) – for burning fuel.

The main component, the size of which determines the operating time without adding fuel. There are holes at the bottom for air to enter during the combustion process.

By form:

• rounded;
• rectangular.

2. Grid – for placing food.

Dimensions affect the number of servings prepared at the same time.

By form:

• round – for universal use;
• square - for barbecue.

To prepare different dishes at home, fixation is provided in several positions:

• low – for steaks;
• medium – for meat and kebab;
• high – for vegetables in foil.

3. Stand – for a stable position that ensures safe use.

4. Lid – for uniform heating of food with reduced cooking time, which leads to fuel savings.

5. Temperature sensor in the form of a thermometer with a sensitive element placed inside the bowl - to control the cooking process and reduce the risk of getting undercooked meat or raw vegetables.

6. Baking trays – for making pizza.

7. Double racks – for baking vegetables.

8. Tongs – for turning fried pieces of meat, fish, sausage or frankfurters.

9. Spatulas or brush - for cleaning the bowl from ash or ash.

Difference from barbecue

Despite the similar principles of operation, a barbecue differs from a conventional barbecue in the use of a grate rather than skewers.

In addition, a fryer with a lid is used, which allows you to effectively maintain the desired temperature during the cooking process, ensuring uniform heat treatment of products on all sides. As a result, the meat can not be cut into pieces, but baked into large steaks.

Types of grills and barbecues

Brazier

Barbecues are devices for cooking food on skewers. They differ by type of design:

• stationary,
• portable,
• collapsible,
• with wheels.

At the dacha, it is recommended to install the product from stone or brick. It combines a brazier, a Russian oven, a fireplace, a grill, a barbecue and a barbecue.

BBQ Grill

A device for frying meat, vegetables and other products on a grill. The device makes the cooking process easier and eliminates the need to string food on a skewer.

A huge variety of dishes are prepared on the grill, so small ingredients can also be placed on the grill without any problems.

Smokehouse

The device smokes various products, such as meat or fish. It differs from other types of braziers by having an additional lid, without which the required smoke concentration cannot be achieved.

Fuel classification

Firewood (solid fuel)

The most common material is firewood; charcoal is less commonly used. Solid fuel gives a fragrant smoky flavor that lovers of barbecue, barbecue and other dishes like.

But the cooking process is more complicated: it requires skill to light the fire and wait the right time. A large amount of smoke makes it impossible to use the equipment indoors.

Gas

The fuel guarantees convenience and clarity of control. The heating intensity mode is adjustable at any stage of cooking. But the cost of this equipment is more expensive, since the mechanism is more complex; searching for fuel will also require additional effort.

The raw material is unsuitable for smoking, where smoke is required. Gas fryers can be used indoors.

Electricity

Such devices consist of a heating element and are connected to the network. Some models are equipped with spirals installed in a glass flask.

Such devices are equipped with glasses to collect draining fat, and charcoal can be added for flavor. They are used indoors, but are tied to electrical outlets.

Classification by design

Portable

This includes barbecues and other devices that can be disassembled into individual elements for ease of transportation. To use the device, the structure must be folded again. Such models take up little storage space.

Folding

This structure, if necessary, folds up and does not disassemble into separate parts. It consists of an X-shaped stand on which the coal box is installed, and a suitcase that is placed on top.

Mobile

The design is large-sized, moves with the help of wheels, and is equipped with two additional supports. The principle of movement resembles a cart or wheelbarrow.

Such models are suitable for permanent installation. The disadvantages of a mobile structure are heavy weight and bulkiness. It is not intended for hiking or traveling.

Pokhodnaya

Portable design. The package does not include a box of coals. The camping model is a stand over a fire. This is not as convenient as using a full installation, but with a minimum of space it is enough.

Classification by shape

Rectangular or square

A standard shape, popular among all types of products: barbecues, barbecues and smokehouses. Skewers are placed more rationally and steadily.

Round

The shape is typical for a barbecue grill. The roasting pan does not contain corners or joints, therefore it is considered the most reliable. But the usable area is smaller.

What are the right skewers?

Barbecue skewers should be made of stainless steel and have sharp points at the ends: they should pierce the food and not tear it. Skewers that are too long will sag in the center, and parts of the kebab located far from each other will not cook well. The optimal length is 60 cm. When choosing it, take into account the width of the barbecue box. It is better to buy flat or triangular skewers, with a twisted handle: it is easy to install on the edge of the grill in the required position. On round ones, the meat does not hold steady and will be difficult to turn.

Advantages of grills and barbecues

Benefits of barbecue

• Perfect barbecue preparation.
• Prices range from low to high.
• Large selection of accessories.
• Little weight.
• Long-lasting operation.
• The versatility of the device.

Benefits of grilling

• A variety of models allows you to choose products for your home that run on gas and do not emit smoke.
• The beneficial properties of the products are preserved. The dish turns out to be dietary, as it does not require the addition of fats or spices.
• A simple and natural way to process food.

Benefits of a smokehouse

• The structures are easy and quick to assemble.
• After using the device, there is no ash or ash left, as everything goes into the sump.
• Electrical devices are economical.
• Simple repair.
• Environmentally friendly device.
• Most models are spacious.
• The stainless steel base of the structure makes the smokehouse resistant to humidity.

Where can I buy

You need to purchase outdoor barbecues in specialized departments that sell garden tools or in supermarkets. In addition, you can make your choice in the online store and order your favorite new items online.

The pages of the Yandex.Market or E-catalog marketplaces demonstrate the best information about the products, the main characteristics - how much it costs, which company is better to buy. There you can compare characteristics or prices, look at the description, and also get a direct link to the seller to order the model.

Problems

Disadvantages of barbecue

• Rapid deformation of the bowl.
• Portable barbecues are unstable.

Disadvantages of grilling

• Fried foods increase the risk of cancer due to carcinogens contained in the smoke (this applies exclusively to meat).
• Special means for igniting a fire release harmful substances that are absorbed by food. Even ordinary newspaper contains lead.

Disadvantages of smokehouses

• Inability to work in cold weather.
• Many models do not have an attractive appearance.

How to choose grills and barbecues

When choosing, you need to pay attention to several nuances.

Canopy

Equipping your own roof provides ease of use, but makes the structure larger and heavier.

Number of skewers

The criterion is important for barbecues with special recesses for skewers, since the number of possible places for preparing food is limited. If there are no connectors, then as many skewers are placed on the grill as the size allows.

Wall thickness

Models with a wall thickness of up to 1 mm are intended for rare use, 2 mm are designed for frequent use, 3 mm are suitable for daily cooking and last a long time.

Product material

Cast iron is considered the most suitable material for making a Dutch oven. It retains heat well, which saves fuel consumption. The design of the product remains unchanged for years. The disadvantage of the cast iron composition is considered to be instability to temperature changes.

Reliable options are made of stone or refractory brick.

Such materials do not change under the influence of high temperature. Heat is retained, saving fuel.

Such models are afraid of moisture, so they need to be placed under a canopy or on a small foundation.

Stationary metal devices weigh a lot because they have thick walls.

Selection rules

To purchase a grill that is optimal in quality and functionality, it is necessary to take into account a number of basic criteria and characteristics:

• Case material . The highest quality and most durable products are made of ceramics and cast iron. They have good thermal conductivity, ensuring fast and high-quality frying. But the cost of such devices is quite high, so for your dacha you can choose a budget model made of steel or aluminum.
• Grate dimensions . This parameter is selected based on the volume of prepared products. For rare use and a small number of servings, it is better to purchase a device with a small grate size, which will save fuel and ensure more uniform heating.
• Temperature setting . An option that allows you to more carefully monitor the cooking process and maintain optimal heating of the equipment.
• Device mobility . For frequent outdoor trips and travel, a compact device with low weight that can be loaded into the trunk of a car without any problems is better suited. At your summer cottage, you can install a more massive and multifunctional unit.
• Type of fuel used . The most popular are coal models, balanced in size, functionality, mobility and quality of work.
• Structural stability . An important parameter affecting the safety of barbecue operation. It is better to give preference to products with high-quality stands and stops.

What type of grill would you like to purchase?

OpenClosed

Equipment

Skewers included

The “original” skewers fit into the connectors on the box; the quantity most often corresponds to the capacity of the barbecue, but sometimes spare ones are added.

Lattice

The device is used in grills, barbecues, and smokehouses.

Transformation into a suitcase

Some models fold into a container with a handle, making the device easier to carry.

Lid

Lids are included as standard in the smokehouse set.

Case

Since the case is designed to transport all components, the risk of losing a part is reduced.

Product stand

Additional surface for storing necessary ingredients. Hot dishes removed from frying on the grill or smokehouse are placed there.

Compartment/shelf for firewood

In models operating on solid fuel, a separate shelf will allow you to place a supply of firewood. The cylinder in gas-powered models is placed on a shelf; the use of a long hose is not required. The disadvantage of the shelf is the increased weight and size of the product.

Wheels for transportation

The devices are placed on supports - 2 wheels and 2 stationary legs. This makes the product stable and eliminates the risk of displacement. To move the device, just lift the edge with the legs, which is much easier than lifting the entire structure.

Chimney pipe

The pipe significantly accelerates the removal of combustion products, which are removed from the working chamber through draft.

Accessories

The models are equipped with various useful additions:

• Removable grille.
• Probe thermometer.
• Poker.
• Scoop.
• Cauldron stand.
• Grill lid.
• Blade for fanning coals.
• BBQ grill set: fork, tongs, spatulas.
• Baking tray for preparing small pieces.
• Hanging for a frying pan, cauldron.
• Holder for cauldron and frying pan.
• Roof.
• Rack.

Installation safety

Like any flammable equipment, a barbecue oven using gas and coal fuel is installed according to fire safety rules:

• at a distance of 5 m to flammable buildings;
• in the absence of children's facilities, vegetation, trees nearby;
• within reach of a water source;
• on a non-combustible basis;
• with a chimney, the height of which must be at least a meter, and the protrusion above the roof of the gazebo, extensions must be at least half a meter and must be higher than the ridge.

Installations without a chimney, covers must be in an open place to avoid smoke accumulation. The electric barbecue grill is intended for rooms protected from precipitation.

Exploitation

• Before the first use, the frying container must be greased with vegetable oil and ignited.
• The fire is extinguished with a special hood, since the use of water leads to deformation of the walls.
• Do not load more fuel than required.
• The device must be installed on a level place.
• When temperatures differ, shape deformations occur.
• Do not allow rain or snow to get inside the device.
• Store the device in a dry place or under a shelter covered with film.

Service

Clean the grill after each use:

• Wait until the device cools down completely.
• Remove accumulated ash.
• Do not use rough brushes to clean the surface.
• Apply detergent to soften the grease.
• Rinse the surface with water. Wipe dry.
• Lubricate metal structures with vegetable oil to prevent rust.

Safety

• Use devices only for their intended purpose, and not for burning garbage, heating (unless this function is enabled by the manufacturer), or drying clothes.
• No foreign objects should be stored inside.
• Do not touch the surfaces of the product during the cooking process. To do this, use special tools and potholders.
• Closely supervise children around the appliance.
• Do not leave a working grill, barbecue, or smokehouse unattended.
• Do not install the device near flammable substances, close to trees or buildings.
• Use in windy weather is not recommended.
• Do not use alcohol or gasoline for ignition.
• Do not carry the product with hot coals or ash.
• Do not use a device with defective components.

Guarantee

The manufacturer provides a guarantee for the performance of the devices, subject to compliance with operating rules, safety measures, transportation and storage.

The warranty period for most products varies from 1 to 2 years. If the date is not set, then the period is calculated from the date of release of the product.

The warranty does not apply if the malfunction occurs due to the user’s fault, due to mechanical damage, weather conditions, natural accidents, or exposure to aggressive substances.

The warranty does not apply to fasteners, coatings, plastic or wooden structural elements.

Malfunctions

• The main problem with metal products is wear of parts. They wear out and rust. In this case, it is necessary to replace the damaged element with a new one.
• Part failure. If you know how to use welding, you can fix some problems yourself. Otherwise, replacement parts will be required.
• If the paint has peeled off the surface or rust has appeared, the device cannot be used. It is necessary to clean the metal, remove rust and primer, and repaint it.
• In household grills, heating elements often fail and the heating element needs to be replaced.

Manufacturers of grills and barbecues

Big Green Egg

The ceramic grill looks like a green egg. The device combines the functions of a tandoor, smokehouse, oven, and grill. The device warms up quickly, and within 10 minutes the device is ready for cooking.

The streamlined shape of the grill works on the principle of a pipe. Heats up well and retains heat. The design feature protects the coal from wind and rain, making the device convenient at any time of the year.

Brand products stand out:

• Quick readiness for use.
• Smooth temperature control.
• Economical consumption of wood chips.
• Convenient grates for unloading and loading products.
• Spacious pallets.
• Long-term manufacturer's warranty.

Camping World

Gurman smokehouses are available in three sizes: from 2.8 to 4.8 kg. The large design folds up, but can be used in any way. The total weight of this device is 6 kg.

Barbecues from 5 to 7 kg include a smokehouse function, the number of skewers varies from 4 to 6. The design is equipped with a grill grate. Various non-separable options run on coal, firewood, gasoline, electricity, and gas.

Features of smokehouses:

• smooth temperature control;
• low fuel consumption (1.5 cups of wood chips per process);
• individual packing.

Clatronic

Products are manufactured in China. The company's grills occupy a separate position.

Model BQS 3508 provides a floor standing electric appliance. Among the main characteristics are a removable grille, a tray, and wind protection. The body does not heat up, so the product is safe, but stainless steel requires cleaning immediately after use. The process goes quickly.

BBQ grills are easy to transport as they weigh only 3 kg.

Doorz

A Russian company produces grills, barbecues and accessories. The assortment is represented by a wide line of inexpensive products for the garden and home. A popular model is the grill with a roof. The company also produces stainless steel smokers.

GFGRIL

The grills are equipped with ribbed surfaces and a non-stick ceramic coating. They are easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher.

The electric grill consumes energy sparingly, as both sides are heated at the same time. The products adhere tightly to the surface, so even a thick steak is fried in a matter of minutes.

The lid is adjustable to the size of the product. Some models are equipped with a control mode for each plate separately.

Megagrill

Presents a series of barbecues. A new product is an automatic barbecue grill for cooking meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables. The device is powered by a battery, which is not included as standard. The device folds into a suitcase.

The ceramic model consists of three collapsible blocks, which can be removed as needed. The smaller version of the ceramic grill is not inferior in functionality; it serves as a barbecue, smokehouse, or tandoor.

An interesting option is a transforming grill. It is compact, assembles in 10 seconds, and weighs 3.2 kg. Indispensable for outdoor recreation.

Primo

Carbon ceramic devices guarantee the preparation of culinary masterpieces. What stands out is the twenty-year warranty that is provided after product registration, since each product is marked with a unique number.

The stoves are multifunctional, combining the roles of barbecue, grill, barbecue, and smokehouse. Parts are resistant to corrosion. A special feature of the design is its oval shape, which guarantees a considerable usable area with compact dimensions.

The devices are economical - a load of 5 kg of coal lasts for 36 hours.
Advertising from sponsors: // // //

The best coal options with a steel body

The most common option for barbecue grills in a wide price range.

Go Garden Blazer 47

Large rectangular barbecue grill with a height-adjustable grate. It is distinguished by its mobility, ease of use at any time of the year and convenience. The device is suitable for stewing and frying fish, meat, and vegetables. Ergonomic wooden shelves provide additional comfort during work.

Pros:

• quality of cooking;
• practical frame design;
• square bowl;
• light weight;
• grid adjustment;
• Tight, stable lid.

Minuses:

• upper part without fastenings;
• access to coals during cooking is difficult.

Char Griller Smokin Pro

The grill from the American company, equipped with cast iron grates, allows for easy addition of coals without the need to remove the lid. The ash tray is easy to clean. The design is equipped with a thermometer, a tray for draining fat, and a hot smoking function is available. The dimensions of the surfaces used are 40x35 and 75x50 cm.

Pros:

• cast iron grates;
• high-quality smokehouse;
• stable design.

Minuses:

• uneven heat distribution due to the large size of the fryer;
• the appearance of rust;
• inaccurate thermometer.

Green Glade 11100

Multifunctional outdoor cooking appliance with ultra-heat-resistant coating and three convenient shelves. The built-in thermometer allows you to control the frying temperature. Wheels on the rear supports make transportation easy.

Pros:

• high-quality roasting;
• Ease of use;
• fast heating;
• functionality.

Minuses:

• inappropriate fasteners included;
• thin steel;
• it is inconvenient to clean the lower part of the structure;
• peeling and burning of paint on the body during operation.

Green Glade 11092

The device is suitable for frying and smoking meat, vegetables, fish. The two-tier structure of the barbecue grill makes it possible to cook several dishes at once. The size of the device grid is 52x33 cm.

Pros:

• large set of functions;
• quality cooking;
• two tiers for different dishes.

Minuses:

• the occurrence of rust;
• thin steel;
• peeling paint.

Char-Broil Performance 780

Rectangular model with an adjustable charcoal stand that allows you to adjust the desired heat intensity. The door provides access to fuel during cooking.

The side tables are convenient to use while using the grill. The dimensions of the main grill are 70x46 cm, the heating structure has an area of ​​68x23 cm.

Pros:

• wide grille with porcelain enamel;
• removable ash tray;
• handles with heat protection;
• adjustable air dampers;
• chrome plated heating grid.

Minuses:

• not found.

Comparison of characteristics of steel coal models: