Shopping Guides 5 Of The Best Barbecues

Date Published:

18/08/2008

The barbecue may be regarded in thousands of years as something of a religious artefact for our generation – a symbol of faith above experience. But on a long, light summer’s evening, especially when the mercury does rise above 10 degrees, there’s nothing quite like taking the kitchen outside, kicking back and showing reverence for the barbecue idol with a bottle of something cold.


By Kerry Young

It used to be so simple... but now choosing a barbecue is more of a style, bank balance or design dilemma than shoes. The Golden Rule before you shell out is to think realistically about how often you will use it (rather like shoes, hmm) and how many friends will agree to eat your charred offerings.

Gas or charcoal? Gas barbecues are quick to light, easy to handle and less hassle to clean, while charcoal versions are cheaper and retain a certain singsong-round-the-bonfire romance. You know which camp you are in.

Environment Obviously the bigger your barbie, the more gas you use and more CO2 you produce, but with gas you do at least burn it for a shorter time. Charcoal is made from wood, so is technically more carbon neutral, but briquettes are often packed with nasty chemicals and sourced from tropical rainforests. Salve your conscience by going for locally sourced charcoal that will save deforestation abroad, support British sustainable woodland coppicing and cut down on road miles.

Accessories The simplest barbecue is just a metal grill over heat on which to slap your burgers. More sophisticated models have extras such as a hood to protect from wind or even roast food, a rotisserie or a griddle (fried eggs anyone?).