Summer is right around the corner, so it is time to start barbecuing outside on your favorite grill. It’s time to cook hot dogs and hamburgers out and enjoy some quality family time. However, if you’re like some of us and need a new grill, you may be looking into a few options.
If you need something low maintenance or need something that doesn’t produce a lot of smoke, an electric grill may be something you should look into.
Do electric grills produce smoke? Yes, they do. However, it will not be as smoky as a gas grill. This is an excellent option if you are in an apartment and don’t want to smoke out your neighbors, but still like the smell of barbecue.
Electric grills offer many benefits, one of them being that it is slightly better for the earth. It releases 99% less carbon monoxide than your charcoal grill would. However, there are many options to choose from, and there are many reasons you should choose an electric grill.
How Do Electric Grills Work?
The coolest thing about an electric grill is that it can be easy to use. It has a pan embedded into the actual structure and another container that catches the grease. It is generally small enough to push anywhere in the yard, and a lot easier to clean than a typical charcoal barbecue.
The next neatest thing about this grill is that you can use it inside because it produces way less smoke. So even if it is winter time you can easily make a good old fashion barbecue without freezing!
Do Electric Grills Have Flames?
This type of grill does not produce flames, and that is generally why it does not produce smoke like a charcoal or gas grill would. However, if you cook any food at a high enough temperature, it will start smoking. The good news is, no matter how high of a heat you choose, no flames will come out. This is because an electric grill uses nichrome.
It will get so hot that it will glow, but it will never actually produce any flames. This is another reason it can be useful to use inside. An electric grill is all about convenience.
Can Electric Grills Be Used Outside?
Yes! An electric grill is a fantastic option to use inside or outside. It is easy to move around and can be placed almost anywhere, but some may require an outdoor plug. You can barbecue in the farthest part of the yard, on the patio or even inside of the living room if that is what you want. Electric grills are some of the most convenient options for people because it gives them options.
A gas or charcoal grill can only be in a few places; they need to be outside, uncovered, and have proper ventilation. Unlike an electric grill, they produce a lot of smoke that can harm people when placed inside. Electric grills are by far the most convenient and even safer option for some families.
What Are the Main Differences Between Electric Grills and Gas Grills?
The main difference between an electric and gas grill is the fuel they use to run. Electric grills are plugged into a wall or charged to be able to use. Gas grills require you to buy a tank of gas and placed strategically so you can let the smoke out.
Gas grills will either use natural gas or propane tanks. Natural gas is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint. The best choices are either electric or natural gas barbecues.
How To Clean an Electric Grill
Cleaning an electric grill is very easy. Firstly, you will want to make sure that the pan is cooled off, so you don’t burn yourself and want to make sure that the grease is caught by the drip pan. After everything is cool, you can take hot water and let it sit on the dirty pan.
Then you will be able to use a regular sponge or rag to scrub the touch areas. That is, it! You will want to make sure you are not too rough on your pan because that could lead to scrapes that won’t go away. Using hot water and soap with a regular sponge is always the best way to go.
What Are Good Electric Grill Options?
Most electric grills you find will be a little more budget-friendly than other options. They can be placed inside or outside, and they will last for a while. You will have to take care of them properly to make sure they last.
1. George Forman 15-serving grill- This is an excellent grill that stands up high and is lightweight. You can move it indoors or outdoors quickly. No heavy lifting is required. It is great for parties because you can cook for 15 all at once. It is nonstick and easy to clean. Also, it has a wide range of temperatures you can use. This is not a bad electric grill for beginners.
2. Char-Broil 20602108- This is an excellent grill if you have a small patio or live in an apartment without much space. It uses infrared to help cook your meat to the perfect temperature while also controlling the heat, so there are no flare-ups. This specific grill is easy to clean and rust-resistant, making it a great option to go outside.
3. Americana Electric Cart grill- This is an excellent choice for convenience; it has wheels and is perfect for moving place from place. It also comes with two shelves to help hold and serve food, all while cooking. It is small enough to fit in most places, but can still serve a party of people. This grill cart does need an outlet to be able to plug into.
4. Americana Lock & Go- A small grill you could take on a picnic as long as you have some outlet. It is small and so portable you can actually just carry it around in your hands. Though it is small, you should only use this grill outside. It is durable and can cook a small meal for a full family.
5. Americana Portable Table Top Grill- Another small grill that can be used inside of your house! It is meant to be used on a countertop or a table. Your whole family can watch the food sizzle and grill. The temperature is easy to control, making it easy to cook meat to any temperature, and it is also effortless to clean, which is especially important.
There are many good choices for electric grills, and you will want to shop around to compare. They all have different features that you may or may not want in a grill. These are truly good for people who have close neighbors or live in apartments.
Final thoughts
Owning an electric grill can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and be an easy option if you want to grill outdoors without owning a huge barbecue. It is also an excellent option if you feel like grilling up a steak in the wintertime. It makes little to no smoke, and it is easy to manipulate the temperature. This is a wonderful choice for first-time grillers.
Electric grills are a better option for the environment and good to teach someone the basics of grilling. There is no doubt this is one of the best options to choose from, and there are now many options and places you can get an electric grill from.