What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1130203
featured dining guide story Advertorial Feature SPECIAL TO nwA DEmOCrAT-GAzETTE Dishing on popular grilling methods 42 What's up! JuNE 16-22, 2019 G rilling season is in full swing in Northwest Arkansas. Grilling is not only a way to prepare meals; for many, it's also a passion. "Barbecuing is no longer just a pastime, but an integral part of the North American lifestyle," said Jack Goldman, president and CEO, Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association. "We expect consumers' passion for flavorful food and entertaining their family and friends to continue to increase." The HPBA's 2017 industry survey found that 70 percent of adults in the United States own a grill or smoker. Flavor, lifestyle and entertainment are the prime reasons people grill. Charcoal- or gas-fueled grill? When it comes time to replace or upgrade a grill, the age-old question remains: Do I choose a charcoal- or gas-fueled grill? That decision can spark heated debate among grillmasters, but for many it may boil down to a number of factors. Cost Charcoal grills tend to be the less expensive than gas grills. The food and beverage trend reporter Chowhound indicates that a low-end grill can be purchased for around $25. However, deluxe charcoal kettles and other charcoal alternatives tend to be considerably more expensive. The most popular gas grills may cost anywhere from $130 to $300. Those who prefer more options and high- end offerings can pay between $800 and $1,500. High heat searing When cooking expensive, well-marbled steaks or other dishes that benefit from high-heat searing, charcoal grills seem to outperform gas ones, at least according to the experts behind The Sweethome. That isn't to say gas counterparts can't come very close. And deploying a cast-iron pan on top of the grates can help concentrate the heat and allow the meat to cook in its own fat. Convenience There is no doubt that gas grills are a marvel in regard to convenience, especially when they are directly tied into a home's propane or natural gas system. In such instances, one never has to worry about running out of gas. Gas fuel tends to be cheaper than charcoal and easier to clean, and some gas grills come with side burners that enable cooks to prepare side dishes right next to their grilled entrees.