Let’s cut to the chase — flat top grilling is the wave of the future. Your friends and family may still love the nostalgia of cooking on a traditional grill, but flat top grills are far superior in terms of versatility, ease of use, and safety. So, if you’re looking for a modern take on grilling, here’s what you need to know about why a flat top grill is better than a traditional grill – from flat top vs traditional grill comparison to advantages of a flat top grill and disadvantages of a traditional grill.
Flat Top vs Traditional Grill Comparison
The most obvious difference between a flat top grill and a traditional grill is the physical form. Traditional grill grates feature round or square bars that give you a defined cooking area, while a flat top grill features a flat cooking surface – not unlike an old-fashioned griddle. While traditional grills use indirect heat – meaning the flames are below the food – flat top grills use direct heat that can be adjusted much more precisely.
Advantages of a Flat Top Grill
When compared to a traditional grill, flat top grills have several advantages. The first major benefit is that they allow you to cook a variety of foods without constantly having to worry about whether or not the food may be overcooked or undercooked. This is because you are able to control the heat much more precisely.
Another benefit of a flat top grill is that the flat surface allows for much easier and more even cooking. Plus, it’s much easier to clean! Because there are no individual grates, you can simply use a cloth or a spatula for cleaning. Finally, flat top grills are incredibly versatile – you can use them to cook everything from pancakes to burgers to steak.
Disadvantages of a Traditional Grill
When compared to a flat top grill, there are a few disadvantages of using a traditional grill. For one, they can be tougher to clean since they have individual grates. Secondly, cooking on a traditional grill can be inconsistent since the heat is not spread evenly across the cook surface. This can often lead to undercooked or overcooked food. Finally, using indirect heat means it’s hard to adjust the temperature so you can cook your food to perfection.
Practical Tips
If you’re a fan of the traditional grill, then don’t despair – there are always ways to work around the disadvantages. The most important thing to remember is to keep the grill clean and to use high-quality thermometers for accurate temperature readings. This will help ensure your food is cooked evenly.
Additionally, you should always use high-quality charcoal or gas to make sure the heat is properly distributed. For indirect heat cooking, you can use a heat deflector or firebox to help control the temperature. Finally, use a dry rub to give your food additional flavor and prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a traditional grill enthusiast or a modern flat top grill fan, it’s clear that both styles of cooking come with their own advantages and disadvantages. While the flat top grill does provide greater control and a flat cooking surface, traditional grills give you a more classic look and feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what your preference is and what type of food you plan on grilling.
If you’re looking for versatility, then a flat top grill may be the way to go. However, if you’re more interested in nostalgia and tradition, then a classic, natural gas or charcoal grill may be the way to go. Whatever you decide, take the time to do your research and find the grill that’s right for you. Good luck!
