Grillin’ out

When we found out we were moving from a condo to a home, we started shopping for things we’d finally be able to enjoy. A grill was first on our list, because our grilling had been limited to occasional beach barbecues and parties in the condo’s common areas.

When choosing a grill, there are several things you must ask yourself, in order to decide which one is best for you:

What size do I need?

Unless you entertain frequently, a four-burner grill might not be the best size for you. Think about the number of people who will be using the grill, and estimate that each will need about 9 by 8 inches of space.

Keep in mind that larger-size grills cost more than smaller ones, both upfront and over time, as a larger grill uses more propane.

How much am I willing to spend?

A higher price does not always mean better quality. Decide how much you want to spend, and stick to your budget.

Also, remember to keep longevity and maintenance in mind. Spending less today on a grill that will last only a couple of years will end up costing you more than investing in a grill that will last much longer.

What will I be cooking?

If you are grilling mainly steak, charcoal may be the way to go. It can get to a much higher heat than gas, to better achieve that nice dark crust. However, charcoal takes more effort all around, as it takes longer to start up and clean up, and it’s not necessarily the better choice for other food items like poultry, seafood and vegetables. If you have a more diversified palette — and less time for prep and maintenance — gas may be the better choice.

Have a comment or question for Joanne? Email thefixisinhawaii@gmail.com.