The best BBQs to level up your summer cookout
Turn up the tunes and get your tongs out: 'tis the season for alfresco grilling
When it comes to garden design, there’s one key consideration to think about early in the process. Outdoor cooking is a wonderful way to make better use of beautifully curated outdoor spaces while enjoying the summer weather. Why go to all that trouble if you can’t entertain your friends and family among the shrubbery?
Too often it can be an afterthought, and it really shouldn’t. Every great garden needs a place to asado, braai, parrilla, yakitori, shish – whatever your style. Tin-pot three-legged kettle barbecues that last two summers before they rust and fall to pieces are fine if you’re only worried about flipping burgers. But those wanting to go beyond burnt bangers should look at investing in something more substantial.
Grill-ovation has come a long way in the last 50 years – infrared burners, Bluetooth controlled temperature devices, flame whisperers: you name it, they’ve thought of it. But deciphering game-changer from gimmick can be like vegan sausages: they might look enticing, but run the risk of leaving you somewhat dissatisfied.
When choosing the perfect outdoor grill, be conscious of your culinary skills. Cooking over coal or wood embers is not for everyone and requires a certain level of attention and care to not char the outside and undercook the middle. This style of cooking also involves more prep work and cleaning than gas or electric. However, if you crave that authentic barbecue flavour, then it’s worth the hassle. Garden storage space can be scarce, especially in London. Moving equipment in and out the garage is just another reason not to fire up a backyard fiesta. Better to make it a permanent feature if you can, so aesthetics are important.
We’ve compiled a list of the hottest garden grills on the market to spice up your veranda this summer.
The Big Green Egg
Kamado grills are known for their ability to precisely control temperature and evenly distribute heat while cooking on “organic oak and hickory charcoal.” When using the ceramic heat deflector known as the “ConvEGGtor” things could not be easier. Once the coals are glowing red, make small adjustments to the top and bottom vents to achieve a precise level of heat within the dome and it is difficult to get it wrong. You can also make pizza, smoke meats and even bake sticky toffee pudding. These contraptions are by no means cheap but should last a lifetime. Plus, the forest green ceramic shell blends in seamlessly with a garden backdrop.
Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker
If you like gizmos and gadgets, the Joe comes with it all built in. Bid farewell to crumbly firelighters and flimsy matchsticks and say hello to automatic fire starters and smartphone apps. Another option for the kamado grill fans, the wifi controlled ventilator means you can switch on autopilot and adjust the temperature remotely while catching the game. More of a hands-off approach and not one for technophobes, its fire extinguisher red exterior goes well with brickwork and timber finishes. Kamado grills can be freestanding or built into masonry worktops and tables.
Gozney Dome
Pizza ovens really struck a chord during lockdown, and they remain a popular alfresco option. The Gozney Dome can handle up to 16 inches and is adaptable for wood, charcoal or gas, depending on your mood and menu. You can bake anything on its stone base or grill using cast iron griddles and dishes. Gazing into the yellow flames as they seductively glide across the roof of the oven is both mesmerising and enticing.
Somerset Grill Asado
Inspired by the Argentinian “asado”, the Somerset Grill is designed for wood logs instead of charcoal, although you could use either. Much like they do in South America, this concept involves cooking over hot embers in a dramatic pyrotechnic display of smoke and flame. The adjustable height grill provides temperature control, instead of a lid, so your chops are always at the centre of attention. The rustic look is hugely popular right now and the Somerset Grill offers just that, with its exposed metallic finish and log pile to boot.
The Cashmere Caveman WildTable
Guy Richie has created something quite unique. “So that heats up ya knees and cooks at the same time?” enquires Fletcher, Hugh Grant’s character in Richie’s 2019 film “The Gentlemen.” First exhibited live to the public at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2021, the WildTable is not dissimilar to Benihana. The chef, or guests, cook over the hot firebox at the centre of the table and anyone can get involved. Smoke escapes overhead through a tall metal flue, keeping your clothes and eyes nice and fresh. You can steam veg in bell jars or teppanyaki your own onion volcano. The WildTent comes as an optional extra for year-round use.
Natural Grill Outdoor Cook Station
Designed by Synergy Grill, which specialises in commercial kitchens and counts Tom Kerridge, Marco Pierre White and Rick Stein among its clients, Natural Grill’s Outdoor Cook Station uses the same innovative technology to create an unrivalled outdoor gas cooking experience. A sustainable and healthy way to cook, the Natural Grill relies upon its patented high temperature burner and ceramic system to lock in all the flavour and juices via indirect heat whilst “atomizing” fats and oils into mere dust. Highly convenient and great for everyday use.
Complete your alfresco arsenal with our pick of the best cool boxes...
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