Barbecue grilling is as American as baseball and apple pie. The flavors, the social atmosphere, having friends and family over grilling with you… sometimes there's just nothing better on a hot summer day. Choosing a barbecue isn't rocket science, but the main thing to remember is to purchase a grill that will suit your needs. Few things are more disappointing than having a grill that's too small, or one that can't be moved when you need it. Here are some tips on shopping for a grill.
There are many different types of outdoor barbecue grills, such as gas, charcoal or electric. Size is something to consider as well, especially if you need the grill to be portable for cookouts or camping trips. Charcoal grills are typically less expensive than their counterparts; using charcoal as their fuel, they generally impart a bit more flavor to the meat but take quite a bit more prep work to get them ready and up to cooking temperature. Gas, on the other hand, will start cooking faster, and is less messy to set up and clean up, though barbecue purists claim that the food doesn't taste as good when cooked on a gas grill. If you prefer convenience over tradition and can sacrifice some of the taste charcoal provides, a gas grill may be the best choice.
The bigger the grill, the more options become available to you, but the less portable it becomes. Frustration can set in when you don't have enough room to handle the group you're cooking for. Many people opt for two barbecue grills: a larger one for deck parties and a portable one for more mobility. The grill options are almost limitless, so finding the style and accessories you want should not be difficult. Generally, the price of a grill is closely related to its quality and longevity, but don't be intimidated -- even less expensive models can give you years of barbecuing fun!