Own The Grill https://ownthegrill.com Ordinary People, Extraordinary Food Sat, 24 Aug 2024 14:48:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://i0.wp.com/ownthegrill.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/cropped-Own-The-Grill-Icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Own The Grill https://ownthegrill.com 32 32 177643830 How to Clean A Blackstone Griddle (Ultimate Guide) https://ownthegrill.com/how-to-clean-a-flat-top-grill/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 12:02:07 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=325 The Blackstone griddle is one of the most versatile, fun pieces of […]

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The Blackstone griddle is one of the most versatile, fun pieces of cooking equipment you can have on your back patio.  Quality food, artistry, and good times all come with the territory of owning a flat top grill.

If you’ve had your flat top for a while, you may have asked yourself how to clean a Blackstone griddle.

The easy answer to how to clean a Blackstone griddle is to rinse, scrape, wipe then season. Let’s break that down into more detail.

In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know for how to clean a Blackstone grill.  That includes a step-by-step guide to cleaning before your first use, after each cook session, and for those occasional deep cleans. We will also touch on a few tips for regular upkeep to extend the life of your griddle.

You can also check out everything Flat Top Griddles if you want to learn all the tips and tricks to everything griddle.

How Can I Clean a New Griddle Before Using It?

Before we start talking about how to clean a Blackstone griddle after cooking, let’s quickly touch on how to prep your griddle surface before cooking. It’s important to remove any factory residue, dust, or impurities that might be on the flat top grill when shipped.

  1. Wash with Warm Soapy Water

Use mild dish soap like Dawn dish soap and a soft sponge, cloth, or paper towel to gently scrub the griddle. This will help remove any dirt or dust accumulated during shipping and storage.

  1. Rinse Thoroughly

After gently scrubbing with a mild soap, you’ll want to fully rinse the flat top down with water. You can use a squeeze bottle and squirt all over and then wipe up with a cloth or paper towel. If you don’t have a squeeze bottle on hand, just use a cup, lightly pour over the griddle, and wipe up.

  1. Completely Dry

This step is super important for all cleaning of the Blackstone griddle. You really want to make sure you’re fully drying the flat top to prevent any rust from forming.

  1. Season the Griddle

To properly use the Blackstone griddle, you’ll want to season the flat top by applying oil and then turning on the heat so the oil starts to slightly smoke off.

  • Use heat oil like vegetable oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil. Apply a thin layer all over the griddle and use a paper towel to evenly spread out so you don’t miss any area.
  • Turn on the griddle and allow it to heat up until the oil starts to smoke slightly. This process helps create a non-stick surface and provides a protective layer to prevent rusting.
  • Once the oil heats up and starts to smoke, turn the griddle off and allow it to cool completely.
  1. Repeat Seasoning

Once the oil cools down, you’ll want to repeat this process again by applying a high heat oil like coconut oil, turning on your Blackstone griddle, and allowing it to heat up and slightly smoke. After this round of seasoning, you can then use a cloth or paper towel to wipe off any excess oil. Your Blackstone griddle is now ready!

How do you clean a Blackstone griddle after each use?

There are a few things you should do after each time you cook that will help you to extend the life of your grill and make deep cleans less frequent.  Here are a few tips for routine cleaning of a flat top grill.

  1. Let Griddle Cool

    Before cleaning, make sure the griddle has cooled down to avoid burns or injuries. You can spray down with water and give the surface a good rinse.

  2. Scrape Excess Off

    Use a griddle scraper to scrape any leftover grease or food particles. You can push the remaining This helps speed up the process. leftovers into the drip pan to dispose of later.

  3. Wipe Down

    Use a paper towel or rag to completely dry.  You don’t need to press too hard here.

  4. Season the Griddle

    To maintain the seasoning and to help avoid rust, apply a high heat oil like vegetable oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil to the griddle and heat until the oil starts to slightly smoke. Once you see the oil smoking, you can turn it off. Once the flat top cools down, wipe up any excess oil from the surface.

    Some chefs recommend that you re-season the griddle after use to continually build up the seasoning.  Others choose only to do it after a deep clean is performed.  This comes down to personal preference.

How to Deep Clean a Blackstone Griddle

From time to time, you should take inventory of your grill and assess whether or not it needs a deep clean.  The deep cleaning process will more or less “reset” your cooking surface to its original form.

It’s important to note that after a deep clean, you will most definitely need to re-season your grill before its next use.  That’s because the deep cleaning process is thorough enough that it will take off any seasoning that has built up over time.

Indicators That a Deep Clean Is Needed

Knowing when it’s time for a deep clean of your Blackstone griddle depends on the frequency of use and the level of residue buildup. Here are a few tips to help determine if your Blackstone is in need of a deep clean.

  • Reduced Non-Stick Properties

If your griddle is no longer as non-stick as it used to be, it’s a sign that it needs a deep clean and re-seasoning.

  • Excessive Smoke or Flaring

If you experience excessive smoke or flaring caused by grease or food particles burning on the griddle.

  • Visible Rust

If you see any signs of rust on your Blackstone griddle, it’s crucial to address it promptly.

  • Your food is cooking unevenly, or there are hot spots on the griddle top.

If you notice it’s getting harder to cook food evenly or there are clear hot spots on the cooking surface, a deep clean might be the solution.

  • You start to see grease buildup on the griddle surface

If you notice a thick layer of grease, oil, and food residue that regular cleaning doesn’t seem to remove entirely.

Pay Attention to Your Griddle’s Surface Material

A Blackstone griddle typically has a flat, smooth, and non-stick surface made of cold-rolled steel. If you are planning to deep clean another brand of griddle, it’s important you look into what the flat top surface material is made from before deep cleaning.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a list of equipment and materials that will help you deep clean your Blackstone griddle.

Griddle Scraper

A must have accessory for any flat top grill/griddle owner is a griddle scraper.  These versatile tools are designed to easily remove burnt and caked-on residue that inevitably remains on your surface after cooking.

Best Griddle Scraper
Cuisinart CCB-500 Griddle Scraper
  • Easily removes burnt & caked on residue with minimal strokes
  • Splash guard keeps oil off of your hands
  • Ergonomic design means comfort even with extended use
Check Price on Amazon

High Heat Cooking Oil

Vegetable oil is a common oil choice for griddle cooking and is also used frequently to season a flat top cooking surface.  You can also use canola oil, avocado oil, and other options if you don’t have vegetable oil on hand.

Cleaning Agent

Most griddle surfaces we come across are made of stainless steel, so a solid stainless steel cleaner is the way to go.  If your surface is cast iron, just be sure to grab a cleaner that works with that surface.

Dish Cloths

It’s generally a good idea to have a cloth or rags on hand for your griddle cooking area!  They come in handy in a variety of scenarios and of course, are used for the cleaning process.

Warm Water

Nothing crazy here, warm or if possible hot water is just used at the end of a flat top grill routine cleaning!

Steps to Deep Cleaning a Blackstone Griddle

Here’s a step by step guide for how to clean a stainless steel griddle:

  1. Safety Precautions –Just like regular upkeep, make sure the griddle has cooled down before starting the deep cleaning process to avoid burns or injuries

        2. Remove Excess Debris – Using a griddle scraper, remove any large pieces of food, grease, or debris from the surface of the griddle.

  1. Apply Cleaning Solution – Apply the cleaning solution onto the griddle’s surface, covering the entire cooking area. Use a soft sponge or scrub brush to spread the solution and scrub the surface thoroughly.
  1. Let Soak – Allow the cleaning solution to soak on the griddle for a few minutes. This will help loosen the buildup, making it easier to remove.
  1. Scrub – Using the sponge or scrub brush, scrub the surface and remove the residue and stains. Pay attention to corners and edges as well.
  1. Rinse Thoroughly – Once you’ve scrubbed the griddle, rinse off the cleaning solution and residue thoroughly with the hot water. Make sure there is no soap or debris left on the surface.
  1. Dry the Griddle – Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the griddle’s surface completely. Ensure there is no standing water, as it can lead to rusting.
  1. Apply Cooking Oil – To protect the griddle from rust and to re-season the cooking surface, apply a thin layer of high-heat cooking oil evenly across the griddle. Use a cloth or paper towel to spread the oil thoroughly.
  1. Heat the Griddle Briefly – Turn on the heat source and allow the griddle to heat up until the oil starts to smoke slightly. This helps reinforce the seasoning and provides a protective layer.
  1. Cool and Wipe Off Excess Oil – Let the griddle cool down completely. Once cooled, use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe off any excess oil from the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How Do I Clean a Blackstone Griddle Chemicals?

There are a few chemical free methods that you can follow to clean a Blackstone griddle.

  1. The first option involves a simple combination of water and steam. Use a grill brush to get rid of any remnants of food that you have recently cooked.
  2. Add some water and continue to maneuver the brush along, working it into the surface. It is worth noting that when you add this water, after interacting with the heat of the grill, it is going to turn into steam so you will need to be cautious.
  3. Another effective solution involves the use of an onion. You will need to scrub the surface of your grill with an onion whilst it is still hot.
  4. Alternatively, you may wish to use carbonation mixed with soda water. The properties of both products will soften any hard food that is clinging to the surface of your grill. After pouring the solution onto your grill you will need to scrub it thoroughly.

How Do I Make My Blackstone Griddle Not Stick?

Failing to prepare your Blackstone griddle ahead of cooking is likely to result in your food sticking to the surface. To avoid this issue, you will need to season your grill beforehand. Pour a small amount of olive oil onto the surface and rub it in using a rag.

The oil will form a shield between your food and the surface and will ultimately prevent your griddle steaks from sticking. A grill that is not sticky is going to be much easier to clean. You must make sure that you do not use too much oil because this can worsen the issue, leaving your grill stickier than it was to begin.

How Do You Clean a Blackstone Griddle That Has Rust?

To restore a rusty blackstone griddle you are going to deep clean the griddle’s surface by using a cleanser and scraper or wire brush to remove all the debris. Then properly preseason season.

  1. First, turn your rusty griddle on and allow it to heat up. Doing so will make it easier to remove any food debris. You will then need to turn the grill off to cool after around 20 minutes have passed. Take your scraper and scrape the surface. This will allow you to target the rust.
  2. Next, pour some oil onto the grill and use your grill stone to rub it in. You will notice that your grill seems overly oily so you will need to use some paper towels to clean it.

Wrap Up

Deep cleaning your Blackstone griddle regularly will help maintain its performance, non stick properties, and prevent rust. By following these steps, you can ensure your griddle remains in excellent condition, ready to cook up delicious meals for years to come!

 

 

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Pellet Grill Turkey – Our Favorite Recipe & Guide to Smoked Turkey on the Pellet Smoker https://ownthegrill.com/pellet-grill-turkey/ Sun, 23 Jul 2023 19:09:50 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=2255 Pellet grills are a type of smoker grills that have exploded in […]

The post Pellet Grill Turkey – Our Favorite Recipe & Guide to Smoked Turkey on the Pellet Smoker appeared first on Own The Grill.

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Pellet grills are a type of smoker grills that have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason.  These do-it-all cookers are easy to operate, relatively affordable, and most importantly – they will cook some delicious food. They make the perfect pellet grill turkey. 

It shouldn’t surprise you when I share that pellet grills are one of the absolute cookers to smoke a turkey.  Do it right and the flavor will come out perfectly, the bird tender, and the meat will have the perfect amount of smokey taste in every bite.

Maybe it’s Thanksgiving and you’re trying to make sure you deliver the goods to family and friends.  Or maybe turkey just sounded like a great addition to your weekend BBQ spread.  Either way, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ve created a complete guide to pellet grill turkey.  We’ll share our recipe along with some pellet grill knowledge and tips to help you get the absolute most out of your turkey.

A Quick Note on Pellet Grills – And Why They’re Perfect for Turkey

If you’ve made it to this pellet grill turkey recipe, I probably don’t need to sell you what makes pellet grills so great. But it’s worth pointing out a few specific attributes of the pellet grill that make them the perfect vessel to prepare a turkey in.

First and foremost, these cookers have a temperature range that can steadily hold low heat for extended periods – which is exactly why you want to smoke meat low and slow.  Most pellet grills can easily hold temperatures as low as 200°F.

Second, pellet grills are set and forget it style of smokers.  All you have to do to get your grill fired up is turn a dial on your control panel.  It’s as simple as that to get your cook started!  There’s no need to mess around with building and babysitting a fire.

Pellet grills also work as convection style cookers with an indirect heating method – which ultimately leads to evenly cooked results without having to rotate your bird throughout the cook.

Last, but certainly not least, is that these grills will deliver some pretty incredible flavor to your food.  Wood pellets are the fuel source for these grills, and they impart delicious smokey flavor onto your turkey.

Our top recommendation for turkey is cherry pellets – but if you’re stuck deciding which type of wood pellets to use with your turkey smoke, check out our resource on the best wood for smoking turkey to help you decide.

Things You’ll Need for Smoked Turkey

Here is everything you’ll need to get started on your pellet grill turkey:

  • A turkey – ideally 12-15 pounds and fully thawed.
  • Wood pellets – if you own a pellet grill, odds are you have plenty of pellets around.  Just make sure you have enough to get you through a 6-8 hour smoke.
  • Probe meat thermometer – the only way you’ll know for sure when your bird is done is by measuring the meat’s internal temperature.
  • Foil drip pan – this will help catch the turkey’s juicy drippings and also ensure that your cooking chamber remains moist during the smoke.  A water pan isn’t 100% necessary but it will add extra moisture to your cook.
  • Butcher twine – this is optional, but it will allow for you to tie up the legs for better presentation and to minimize the risk of burning the edge parts of your turkey.

 

Preparing the Turkey

To make things easier, I’d recommend buying a pre-brined turkey.  Most store-bought turkeys are pre-brined as this helps to keep the bird moist while it cooks.

If you prefer to brine the turkey yourself, that’s no problem!  Just be sure to allow extra time for the turkey to properly soak in a brine.

From there, I like to apply a rub to the turkey to add extra flavor.  The rub in our recipe later in this article is a fairly traditional Thanksgiving turkey rub, but I’d also recommend sweet rubs.  These work particularly well with a smoked turkey recipe that will result in some pretty tasty sweet and smokey results.

Here is a step-by-step look at what you need to do before placing your bird on the pellet grill:

  • Defrost your turkey.  The only way to safely defrost a turkey is to put it in the fridge well before cooking day.  As a rule of thumb, you should plan to thaw it in the fridge for 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds of bird.
  • After the turkey has thawed, remove it from any packaging and remove the giblets and the neck from the inside cavity.  If you brine your turkey, be sure to wash the outside of the bird with cold water.
  • Pat down the outside of the turkey with paper towels.
  • Tie the legs together, then tuck the wings behind the bird’s shoulder joints.
  • Rub the outside of the turkey with an olive oil or melted butter base, followed by your rub.

From here, your turkey is ready to go on the pellet grill!

To Stuff or Not to Stuff?

I personally don’t think a pellet grill turkey needs stuffing, but you certainly can if you want to.

The key is to make sure you don’t overdo it.  If you pack the stuffing in too tight, you might run into a bad situation where the stuffing doesn’t reach a safe temperature to consume by the time your turkey has finished cooking.

Less is more when stuffing a pellet grill turkey – place a small enough amount in the cavity that plenty of air can still circulate while it cooks.

Getting the Bird on the Grill

Preheat your pellet grill to 225°F.  If your grill has a smoke setting, I like to set the smoke intensity to somewhere in between high and low for turkey.

After it’s nice and rubbed down and your grill has come to temperature, you can proceed with placing the bird on the grill grates.  If your grill has two tiers of grates, place the turkey on the top grate and an aluminum drip pan underneath it on the bottom grate.  You can fill the pan with 2-3 cups of water or apple cider vinegar to help keep the chamber extra moist.

If your grill only has one grate level, no worries!  Place your turkey on the grill and your aluminum pan alongside the bird – this will still help with moisture levels as the cook goes on.

From there, insert a probe meat thermometer into the centermost point of the turkey breast so you can monitor the internal temperature as the cook progresses.

When Is Turkey Ready to Come Off Of the Pellet Grill?

As a general rule of thumb, you can plan on smoking your turkey for about 30 minutes per each pound it weighs.  So for example, a 12-pound bird will spend approximately 6 hours cooking.

But really, the turkey is ready to come off of the grates once it’s reached a safe internal temperature.  Turkey is done once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.  It should measure at least this temperature at all of the deepest sections of meat before it’s ready to come off.

I like to start measuring the internal temperature about an hour before I expect the turkey to be finished – from there, I check every 15 minutes or so to make sure I take it off the grill at the optimal time.

Final Touches for Your Pellet Grill Turkey

After your bird comes off of the grill, you’ll want to let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before you carve into it.  When meat cooks, the juices all concentrate to the centermost sections of the meat, so this rest time allows for the fibers to relax and redistribute moisture evenly throughout the meat.

Once it’s rested, it’s time to carve it up!  Carve into slices and serve on a serving platter alongside your Thanksgiving or BBQ cookout fixins!

Print

Pellet Grill Turkey

A Thanksgiving classic recipe but specifically tailored to cooking low and slow on a pellet grill.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, BBQ, Thanksgiving
Keyword BBQ, Pellet Grill, Pellet Grill Turkey, Thanksgiving, Turkey
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 50 minutes
Servings 12 people
Calories 625kcal
Author Jenna Hansen

Equipment

  • Aluminum foil drip pan
  • Probe meat thermometer
  • Butcher twine (optional)

Ingredients

  • 1 14-16 lb turkey defrosted
  • 1/2 lb butter softened
  • 8 sprigs thyme chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 sprigs rosemary chopped
  • 2 sprigs fresh sage chopped
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt

Instructions

  • In a bowl, combine butter with thyme, minced garlic, rosemary, sage, pepper, and salt.
  • Separate the skin from the defrosted turkey breast and insert butter mixture into the pocket, covering the entire breast and outside of the bird generously.
  • Rub the exterior of the turkey with kosher salt and fresh black pepper.
  • Preheat pellet grill to 225°F
  • Place your turkey on the pellet grill and close the lid. Place an aluminum foil drip pan underneath the turkey and fill with 2-3 cups of water to help keep the environment moist.
  • Smoke the turkey for 6-7 hours. The turkey is ready to come off of the pellet grill when the centermost point of the breast reads an internal temperature of 165°F on your probe thermometer.
  • Remove turkey from grill grates and let it rest on a dish or serving platter for about 20 minutes.
  • Carve, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 625kcal

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The post Pellet Grill Turkey – Our Favorite Recipe & Guide to Smoked Turkey on the Pellet Smoker appeared first on Own The Grill.

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How Long to Air Fry Chicken Wings at 400 / Tips and Tricks https://ownthegrill.com/how-long-to-air-fry-chicken-wings-at-400-tips-and-tricks/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 20:03:33 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=10719 There are so many ways to prepare and cook chicken wings. If […]

The post How Long to Air Fry Chicken Wings at 400 / Tips and Tricks appeared first on Own The Grill.

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There are so many ways to prepare and cook chicken wings. If you search the web, you’ll find just about any and every way to bake, grill, smoke, and fry. But how long to air fry chicken wings at 400? This question is asked thousands of times per month.

You should air fry chicken wings at 400 for 20 minutes, checking every 5 minutes. Give them a shake each time you check to move the chicken wings around and allow them to crisp on all sides.

Step By Step Instruction To Air Fryer Chicken Wings At 400

Let’s go over the steps to prepare and air fry those crispy chicken wings.

  1. Choosing your wings

chicken wings
raw chicken wings

It’s important to note that all wings in the air fryer should NOT be frozen. You can purchase fresh or frozen wings, just make sure the wings are completely thawed before seasoning. This will prevent undercooking the wings, and we all know that uncooked chicken is not something we want to eat.

Please Note: If you do plan to air fry the chicken frozen, it is important to extend the time to at least 30 minutes or when the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

I personally prefer the drumette and wingette to be separated. If you should get the full wing in one piece, you can either use scissors (the easiest way) to separate them or just leave them whole.

  1. Seasoning the Wings

Before seasoning, just take a paper towel and pat them dry. You can place them in a bowl and drizzle olive oil, salt and pepper, and garlic powder(optional). Give the bowl a shake or use a spoon to evenly distribute.

If you’re a grill seasoning expert then add your favorite flavors, but I can promise you sticking with just the basics will not disappoint.

  1. Air Frying the Wings

Start by adding a batch of wings to the air fryer. Don’t overcrowd.  Start the air fryer and adjust the temperature to 400 and the timer to 20 minutes. Push start and get those wings cooking.

  1. Checking on the Wings

air fryer chicken wings wings air aryer air fry wing

It’s good to stay close by and open the air fryer every 5 minutes. You’ll want to shake up the air fryer basket or use a wooden spoon to stir them up. Make sure they’re still laying flat and not on top of each other to prevent areas from not crisping. At the end of 20 minutes, you should have crispy wings.

If you prefer extra crispy wings or super crispy chicken wings, then feel free to cook a little longer.

  1. Easy Optional Buffalo Sauce

wings air fried air fryer chicken wing sauce

The hard part here is to give you the correct measurements. I honestly just throw it all together and adjust if necessary. The air fryer wings sauce consists of butter, ketchup, franks hot sauce, sugar, and honey. I will get more precise in the actual recipe card listed below.

Place all the ingredients into a small saucepan and allow to melt and then simmer on low. Make sure to stir to avoid burning. If the chicken wings are not finished you may want to pull the sauce off the heat and then turn it back on a few minutes before using it to heat through again.

  1. Serving Chicken Wings

Once the air-fried chicken wings are perfectly crispy, remove them from the fryer basket with tongs and place them in a shallow bowl (or any bowl you have on hand).

Pour the sauce over the wings and mix. Make sure to save a little on the side for extra dipping. You can also use blue cheese or ranch dressing to dunk them in for added flavor. Yum!

What is the Best Air Fryer?

Here are our top 3 Air fryers:

The best Nuwave XL Air Fryer

The Best Ninja Dual Air Fryer

Most Popular Ninja

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Wings?

You can serve air fryer chicken wings as an appetizer and pair them with other small plates like these 17 BBQ Appetizer Ideas.

If you’re thinking of serving the air fryer chicken wings as a meal then our tater tot casserole and smoked baked beans are a perfect match.

What Are Some Healthy Chicken Wing Recipes?

Once you start creating healthy chicken wing recipes, it’s kind of hard to go back. Take a look at our 23 favorite ways to cook grilled chicken wings.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings

A few simple tips for the best air fryer chicken wings are to use fresh nonfrozen wings, air fry them for 20 minutes at 400 and check on your wings frequently when air frying. Shake them up every five minutes to help give them the crispy skin they deserve.

How many Chicken Wings Per Person for Serving?

The recommended amount of chicken wings per person varies, but a general guideline is about 6-8 wings for a main course and 3-5 wings for appetizers or party platters.

How To Store Air Fry Chicken Wings?

To store air-fried chicken wings for leftovers, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Make sure to discard any wings left at room temperature for over two hours or showing signs of spoilage.

How to Reheat Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer?

You can reheat chicken wings in the air fryer by cooking them at 350 for 5-8 minutes. Always check every few minutes and shake the air fryer basket around to move the wings around and heat through evenly.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Chicken Wings

There are endless possibilities when it comes to ingredients for air fryer chicken wings. We suggest you keep it simple for the cooking process. All you need is olive oil, salt and pepper. Once the chicken wings are closer to being finished you can season with your favorite rub or sauce and finish cooking those last 5 or so minutes.

How Long Does it Take to Cook Wings in an Air Fryer?

If you are cooking fresh chicken wings, cooking for 20 minutes in an air fryer set to 400 will give you perfectly cooked chicken wings. If you are cooking frozen chicken wings, increase the cooking time to 25-30 minutes or until you reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Are Air-Fried Wings Unhealthy?

Air-fried chicken wings can be a healthier option. Since you’re using less oil compared to deep frying, the wings are lower in fat content. Air frying also reduces the amount of harmful compounds, such as acrylamide, that can form during deep-frying at high temperatures.

More Air Fryer Recipes

Here are a few other air fryer recipes we love:

  1. Air fryer potato skins
  2. Air fryer carrot fries
  3. Air fryer buffalo cauliflower

Additional Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few added questions we know others ask:

Can you Air Fry Frozen Raw Chicken Wings?

Yes, you can technically air-fry frozen chicken wings. It’s recommended to increase the cooking time compared to fresh wings. This ensures that the wings cook through and reach a safe internal temperature.

Can I put raw chicken wings in an air fryer?

You can put raw chicken wings in an air fryer. We recommend air frying fresh raw chicken wings at 400 for 20 minutes to create a perfectly crispy wing.

Why isn’t my Air-Fried Chicken Crispy?

If your chicken wings are not crispy, they may be overcrowded in the air fryer basket. It’s always better to cook in smaller batches to avoid them overlapping each other. The chicken will not crisp on the areas that are covered.

how long to air fry chicken wings at 400
Print

Air Fryer Chicken Wings at 400 degrees

Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American, BBQ
Keyword air fryer, Chicken Wings
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 3
Author Jenna Hansen

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 dozen chicken wings
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder optional

Wing Sauce

  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/8 cup franks hot sauce
  • 1/8 cup sugar
  • 1/8 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing optional

Instructions

  • In a bowl mix together the chicken wings, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional).
  • Place the chicken wings in the air fryer basket and air fry on 400 for 20 minutes.
  • Make sure to check on the chicken every 5 minutes and shake them around to allow the chicken to move and crisp on all sides.
  • While the chicken is cooking, place all the wing sauce ingredients (butter, ketchup, hot sauce, sugar, and honey) into a small saucepan and heat through on medium to med-low heat. Once the sauce starts to bubble turn off the heat a set aside.
  • When the chicken wings are fully cooked, place them in a new clean bowl and drizzle the wing sauce over top.
  • You can save a bit of the sauce to place on the side to dip the chicken wings into. You can also serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 3g

The post How Long to Air Fry Chicken Wings at 400 / Tips and Tricks appeared first on Own The Grill.

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Which Blackstone Griddle is Best to Buy? Complete Guide https://ownthegrill.com/blackstone-griddle/ Thu, 06 Jul 2023 23:44:28 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=10628 If you’re keeping up with the latest and best grilling trends, then […]

The post Which Blackstone Griddle is Best to Buy? Complete Guide appeared first on Own The Grill.

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If you’re keeping up with the latest and best grilling trends, then you know the Blackstone griddle is making a huge name for itself. I mean, who doesn’t love the flat top griddles that have a cooking surface that can flip pancakes, fry eggs, sautee veggies, grill a burger, and sear juicy steaks? It just makes sense!

Find the Right Blackstone Griddle Size for You

Now which blackstone griddle is the best for you? Let’s break down these best-selling grills and why we love them. Let’s start by listing each of the griddle categories:

Within each Blackstone griddle size, there are specific models. Let’s get into more detail and see why these griddles are so amazing.

blackstone
Blackstone griddles

Blackstone 36″ Griddle

The largest of the Blackstone flat-top grills are the 36″ griddles. They are spacious and meant to cook for large groups. The flat-top cooking surface is 35 3/4″ W x 21 1/2″ D. Each of the models is equipped with 4 easy-to-light burners and is able to cook up to a whopping 30 burgers or 125 hotdogs. Here we will compare the 36″ Blackstone grill:

Blackstone Original Series 36″ Griddle

This griddle has:

  • Over 765 square inches of steel cooking space.
  • Foldable side shelves.
  • 60,000 BTU
  • Magnetic toolbar and shelf hooks
  • Paper towel holder
  • Rear grease trap
  • Wheels for easy transport

You can purchase a Blackstone original with a hard top lid if you prefer the lid to be removable.  The griddle alone weighs 141 pounds.

Blackstone Patio Series 36″ Griddle with Air-fryer and Cabinets

This luxury griddle is the flat-top king of Blackstone. It features all the amazing things we listed above for the original 36″ griddle. We’re talking 765 square inches of cooking space, a paper towel holder, a rear grease trap, and wheels for easy transport. What makes this ultimate versatility griddle pure luxury is:

  • 4-quart warming drawer
  • (2) 4-quart air fryer (roast, bake, or air fry)
  • 4 independently controlled heat zones
  • Stainless steel tube burners

The Patio Series 36″ does weigh 265 pounds. I would consider this grill more of a stationary griddle top than one you want to move from place to place. It does have wheels for easy transport, just not as easy of a move as other models.

Blackstone 28″ XL Griddle

The next step down from the 36-inch would be the 28″ XL griddle. They have 3 independently controlled burners rather than the typical 2 burner griddle that the standard 28-inch has. The flat-top cooking space is 28 1/2″ W x 21 1/2″ D. This space can hold a whopping 25 burgers or over 100 hotdogs.

Culinary Collection 28″ XL Griddle with Rangetop

I absolutely love this model when it comes to cooking multiple items. With kids and work, multi-surface cooking can be daunting at the end of the day. You can cook just about anything on this luxury griddle without messing up your kitchen! This griddle has:

  • Just over 610 square inches of cooking surface.
  • Piezo Igniter
  • Magnetic toolbar plus added hooks.
  • 3 Heat controls.
  • Paper towel holder
  • Roomy side shelves
  • 48,000 BTU
  • Rear grease trap
  • Two burner range top
  • Deep fryer basket
  • Ample cabinet storage below to store the propane tank on one side and storage on the other. The door even has shelves to store herbs, squeeze bottles, and other essential cooking supplies.

Blackstone 28″ Griddle

The more popular and cost-effective outdoor cooking griddle on the market is the 28″ model. The 2 burner flat top grill is perfect for a family or small gathering outdoor cookout. The cooktop dimensions are 28 3/4″ W x 18 1/4″ D. This can cook a whopping 20 burgers or 85 hotdogs!

Original Series 28″ Griddle with Hood

This griddle has:

  • Just about 525 square inches of griddle top
  • (2) adjustable heat controls
  • (2) side shelves
  • (2) wheels for easy moving
  • Rear grease trap
  • Attached hood to close the griddle while cooking.

If you prefer to opt out of the hood model Blackstone also makes the 28″ Griddle with a Hard Cover

Patio Collection Blackstone 28″ Griddle with Air Fryer

This luxury 28″ griddle has all the amazing features of the original series 28″ like 524 square inches on the cooktop, 2 heat controls, rear grease trap, and attached hood. The additional features include:

  • Magnetic tool bar and hooks
  • Foldable side shelves
  • 4-quart air fryer and warmer
  • 4 wheels for moving easily.
  • Towel holder

Blackstone 22″ Griddle

Once you get into the 22″ griddles or smaller, the Blackstone flattop truly becomes transportable. Having an on-the-go grill is awesome. We love to take our flattop camping. Since we have a rooftop tent (not a camper with a kitchen) having something easy to transport and also able to cook every meal on is pure perfection.

On the Go 22″ Griddle with Hood and Legs

This portable blackstone griddle has the following:

  • 360 square inches of cooking surface
  • 24,000 BTU
  • Hood with a latch
  • 2 burners
  • Legs that fold up
  • 2 wheels to easily move around

On-the-go Blackstone 22″ Combo Griddle with Range

The griddle combo unit is really useful for travel. Having many of the same features as the 22″ flattop like 360 square inches of griddle space and 24,000 BTU, this griddle also has a range for cooking. It is important to note that the Blackstone 22″ Combo griddle does not come with legs. This model is meant to be placed on a table or other safe cooking areas.

Blackstone 17″ Griddle

On the Go 17″ Blackstone Griddle Grill Combo

one Griddle Grill Combo Known as the ultimate tailgate griddle, the Blackstone 17″ Griddle Grill Combo is very unique. The dimensions are 20.5″ D x 22.1″ W x 38.1″ H. This griddle has:

  • (2) Individual cooking zones
    1. Griddle area
    2. Grill box area with cast iron grates.
  • Scissor foldable legs
  • Side Table
  • Rear grease trap
  • Total of 30,500 BTU
    1. 12,000 BTU stainless-steel flat top
    2. 18,500 BTU powerful round burner

Blackstone E-Series Griddle

There are 2 sizes in the Blackstone E-Series Griddle, the 22″ and 17″ griddles. Both put out awesome power to grill the perfect meal. Let’s compare:

22″ Electric Tabletop Griddle

  • 1600 Watts of power
  • Just over 300 square feet of cooking surface.
  • LCD digital display
  • Ceramic titanium-coated griddle surface
  • Grease cup that is machine washable
  • 2 independently controlled heat zones

17″ Electric Tabletop Griddle

The Blackstone 17″ Electric Griddle is the first electric griddle for indoor and outdoor grilling

  • 1500 Watts of power
  • Just over 220 square feet of cooking surface
  • (1) Temperature control knob
  • Ceramic titanium-coated griddle surface
  • Grease cup that is machine washable

Does Blackstone Make a Pizza Oven?

Yes, the Blackstone pizza oven comes as an add-on piece to the 22″ griddle, as a stand-alone tabletop model, or the stand-alone model with a cart to sit on. It has a rotating pizza stone and heats up to 900 degrees. The oven can cook a 16″ pizza pie in 3 minutes! The Blackstone Pizza Oven with the cart, Pizza Oven without the cart, or a 22″ griddle pizza oven attachment really changed the pizza oven game.

How to Season a Blackstone Griddle

To season a Blackstone griddle, clean it thoroughly, apply a thin layer of cooking oil, heat until it smokes, let it cool, and wipe off excess oil. The best oil to season with is a high-heat cooking oil like canola oil or vegetable oil. Repeat periodically for optimal results.

How to Clean a Blackstone Griddle

To clean a Blackstone griddle, scrape off any food debris, and use warm soapy water with a non-abrasive scrubber to clean, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Cleaning all flattop grills is an important step in maintaining your griddle.

What are the most popular Blackstone Grill Accessories?

There are so many gadgets when it comes to Blackstone grill accessories. A few must-haves would be:

Other Blackstone Articles

How to Clean a Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone vs Camp Chef

Blackstone 28″ and 36″ Grills

Best Flat Top Grill

Griddle vs Grill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Which Blackstone Griddle is Best to Buy? Complete Guide appeared first on Own The Grill.

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The 5 Best Indoor Korean BBQ Grills in 2023 https://ownthegrill.com/indoor-korean-bbq-grill/ Tue, 27 Jun 2023 12:13:46 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=9575 Indoor Korean bbq grills are going to change your life! That’s right. […]

The post The 5 Best Indoor Korean BBQ Grills in 2023 appeared first on Own The Grill.

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Indoor Korean bbq grills are going to change your life! That’s right. I said it. No longer the days when you have to scour the internet for authentic Korean restaurants and spend premium prices for delicious Korean BBQ.

With this type of electric grill, you can enjoy a feast of different types of meat from the comfort of your dining table. You can now experience Korean cooking first-hand, with the whole family having fun, gathering around the table, and participating in indoor grilling together. 

There are a wide variety of these types of grills out there.  They remind me of an indoor flat top griddle.

Luckily, we have narrowed it down to the five best indoor Korean BBQ grills at an affordable price, accompanied by the only buying guide you will ever need.

Quick Overview:

TECHEF – Stovetop Korean BBQ Non-Stick Grill Pan and Gas Stove Burner

CookKing – Master Grill Pan, Korean Traditional BBQ Grill Pan

Korean Style BBQ Grill Pan with Maifan Coated Surface Non-stick

SEAAN Electric Hot Pot Grill Barbecue Grill Indoor Hot Pot

So let’s get into it.

What is an Indoor Korean BBQ Grill?

An indoor Korean BBQ grill is a cooking appliance that allows you to cook Korean barbecue inside your home. These grills are designed to mimic the experience of cooking meats and vegetables over an open flame, like at a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant.

Indoor Korean BBQ grills have a flat, heated surface that can be electric or propane-powered. They typically have multiple burners so you can control the temperature across different parts of the grill. Many also have built-in exhaust or ventilation to remove smoke and grease.

To use an indoor Korean BBQ grill, you cook thinly sliced meats like beef bulgogi and pork belly. The meat is often marinated in Korean barbecue sauce or marinades before being grilled. You can also grill vegetables like mushrooms, onions, zucchini, etc. The meats and veggies are served alongside rice, kimchi, lettuce wraps and other Korean side dishes.

Part of the appeal of Korean barbecue is the interactive, communal dining experience. Indoor grills allow you to gather family and friends together to grill, eat and socialize right at home. Everyone can cook their meat and veggies just how they like it. The indoor grill helps recreate the fun experience without needing to go to a restaurant.

Indoor Korean BBQ grills have become popular appliances because they enable authentic Korean barbecue in a convenient at-home format. They bring the culinary experience and flavors of Korea to your own kitchen and dining room.

What Should You Look for in an Indoor Korean BBQ Grill

There are a few crucial components to picking out the perfect Korean BBQ grill to fit your needs. Here we highlight some things you should consider before purchasing yours. 

Non-Stick Surfaces

Non-stick coatings are one of the first things you should look for when inspecting the grill plates of a potential Korean BBQ grill purchase.

With a Korean grill, an emphasis is put on healthy eating, with lean cuts of meat and a lack of oil required. This makes a durable non-stick coating on the cooking surface vital, so you can cook food to perfection, to your preferred food shade, without worrying that it will stick to the surface and burn.

It also makes cleaning up after quick and easy!

Excess Grease Removal

No one wants to eat a delicious barbecue with a side of grease and oil.

Luckily, a lot of Korean grills have been designed with drainage features. Look out for the indoor grill with a grease drip tray, or a simple design with a hole in the middle to allow oil to run off the grilling surface. 

This is so important to keeping your meat cuts lean and preventing excess grease from clogging up the indoor grill and burning. This can create a very unpleasant experience.

Adjustable Heat Controls

Keeping food warm, or cooking delicious meats to your standard can be especially important, particularly when using a smokeless grill for steaks.

Everyone’s cooking process can vary for different types of food. This makes having a high adjustable temperature range vital.

Also, having a good heat distribution is important for any grill type, especially Korean BBQ. The circular heating element can result in evenly cooked meat and improved efficiency, so you can have your favorite meal in minutes.

Grill Surface

An electric indoor Korean BBQ grill can have various types of surfaces that all work perfectly well but must be decided on preference.

Most grills use a cast aluminum or aluminum alloy, which is combined with a non-stick surface to avoid corrosion. Cast iron can also be used and is a little more durable. However, it is a lot heavier, resulting in a less portable grill.

Aim for grills that have a grooved surface, with this simple design feature helping to get the Korean style sear. This type of design also helps with running excess oil to the grease tray and preventing it from sitting in one place.

Power Input and Cooking Time

The power being supplied to your heat source is very important for determining how long you are waiting for your meal to cook, or your BBQ grill to heat up.

No one wants to be waiting around because their grill won’t cook their chicken thoroughly, or their steak to their liking. It’s even more embarrassing if you are holding a large party or family gathering.

Therefore, try and aim to buy the Korean BBQ with the highest power input. For reference, anything above the 1000-watt mark will work perfectly, but make sure to check the reviews to determine how other customers got on with it.

What Are The 5 Best Indoor Korean BBQ Grill

 

TECHEF – Stovetop Korean BBQ Non-Stick Grill Pan and Gas Stove Burner

This Indoor Korean BBQ is an excellent option for those of you looking for high power. 

Arguably the highest power on this list, TECHEF boasts 2800 kcal/hr, which is roughly equivalent to over 3000 watts of power. 

You will notice at first glance that the tabletop grill has a very ergonomic design, with the aluminum pan sitting above the heat source at a slight angle. This innovative design is engineered for healthy cooking, with the surfaces swirled channel design helping excess grease funnel out. 

The grill is finished with a nonstick coating. This makes cooking easy, and the cleaning after even easier. The removable grill plate also helps to get rid of the majority of the grease left behind.

While this design does include an adjustable thermostat, the labels are very basic. Between the minimum and maximum temperature, the grill lacks an indicator of what temperature you may be at. Even then, the maximum temperature is only labeled with “on”. 

Pros
  • A very high-powered grill, making cooking efficient.
  • Large grill surface, giving you a lot of cooking space.
  • Finished with non-stick cooking surfaces.
  • Removable grill plate.
  • The swirled channel design helps remove excess grease.
  • Adjustable heat controls are present.
Cons
  • Lack of visible light indicators, and temperature indicators.
  • Lack of heat-resistant technology.
  • Not a very portable grill.

CookKing – Master Grill Pan, Korean Traditional BBQ Grill Pan

 

Looking for a grill ideal for a large group of people? Then this is your best option.

According to the manufacturer details, this is the largest Korean BBQ grill on this list, at 16 x 2.3 x 16 in length by height by width. While it is primarily for indoor use, it is also a great option as an outdoor grill.

The drainage system for oil is excellent, with grooves and swirls working together to drain the excess grease to the edge and allow it to pour out. You need to purchase a grease drip tray separately.

CookKing has engineered this pan with a mix of Korean tradition, and new and updated technology. This includes a lightweight aluminum material, with an outstanding non-stick finish to make cleaning easier.

This is unfortunately only the pan, so the gas stovetop needs to also be purchased separately. If you are looking for a grill that has it all in one, without needing to search for the best heat source, then look elsewhere. 

If not, then this basic design is great for a large smokeless indoor party.

Pros
  • Largest grill surface on the list, giving you more cooking space.
  • High-quality materials.
  • Comes with an innovative anti-stick coating.
  • Great excess oil drainage system.
Cons
  • A drainage tray is not included.
  • A gas stovetop is not included.
  • The pan lacks adjustable heat settings.
  • Does not have any heat-resistant technology.

Korean Style BBQ Grill Pan with Maifan Coated Surface Non-stick

 

If you’re looking for a lightweight grill pan that is easy to use with the best oil drainage system on this list, then look no further.

While you need your drainage plate, the hot plate has been designed to perfection when it comes to cooking delicious meat while removing excess grease. The grooves and swirl design, accompanied by a tilting design, lead to a drainage hole in the middle. This helps ensure fat will not drip onto the stove. 

You can cook a variety of foods on this plate, with a durable, double-layered, non-stick surface helping to keep the pan evenly heated, and easy to clean.

Again, another dilemma with this type of Korean BBQ Grill. You are just purchasing the pan.

Unfortunately, you have to research and buy the correct type of gas stove, such as a portable propane burner, to make sure your cooking is efficient and effective. This can be a little tedious as a lot of people want an all-in-one cooker. 

This type of pan, therefore, lacks any type of adjustable control features.

Pros
  • Excellent choice if you are particularly interested in healthy cooking and removing oil.
  • Double-layered and durable.
  • High-quality materials make for efficiency in cooking.
  • Non-stick features make cooking and cleaning easy.
Cons
  • Lacks any type of stove.
  • Lacks safety mechanisms such as heat-resistant handles.
  • Does not have any adjustable heat controls.
  • It is quite heavy and not very portable.

Iwatani Smokeless Korean Barbecue Grill YAKIMARU CB-SLG-1

If you tend to travel a lot or are a big fan of eating good food while camping, then the Iwatani Korean BBQ grill is best.

This is the most portable grill due to its compact design and flat surface, with dimensions of 4.7 x 4.31 x 2.31, including the burner, then you can expect it to fit in any bag.

Furthermore, it is made with alloy steel, making it extremely lightweight and very versatile.

A feature I like about the Iwatani BBQ grill is its drainage system. The grooves on the pan act as a grease tray, meaning once you are done cooking, just add a bit of cold water and pour it out. This means you can cook healthy and clean more easily, which is especially important if you are traveling.

The finish is a powder coating, and while this can act fairly well as a non-stick feature, there are some better options out there.

Also, with such a small and portable burner, you can expect to give up some power. This means cooking meats is a little bit less efficient than the other grills, but I believe it’s worth it if you are camping with this item.

Pros
  • Extremely small and lightweight making it a great travel grill.
  • Excellent excess oil drainage system.
  • Includes a gas power stove that can burn for over 200 days.
  • Includes adjustable heat controls.
Cons
  • It’s not the most powerful option, making cooking less efficient.
  • Flimsy-looking design.
  • It does not have the best non-stick features which can make it harder to clean.

SEAAN Electric Hot Pot Grill Barbecue Grill Indoor Hot Pot

SEAAN has engineered the most versatile Korean BBQ grill on this list due to its 2-in-1 grill technology.

With it having a regular grill and hotpot section with a glass lid, each with a separate adjustable heat source, you can cook a variety of foods for a large capacity of people.

This well-known company is very popular for designs like this, with all of their grills adopting a durable, thick aluminum alloy that can ensure an even heat distribution. This combines with a high-quality non-stick coating that is very good at helping keep your product clean.

You can adjust the temperature controls manually depending on the food you are cooking, and the product automatically adjusts the heat if it gets too hot.

The power of this system is also pretty good, at 110 volts, you can expect a fairly efficient cooking time. Combining this with a separating hot pot feature, you can cook a variety of foods quickly.

The excess fat drainage feature is also excellent, with the grooves working in tandem with a tilted position to pour the oil straight into a detachable drawer like an oil catcher. 

The only drawback to this kind of grill is that it is not very portable, so you could only really use it at home.

Pros
  • Cooks efficiently due to high power.
  • Excellent non-stick surfaces.
  • The electric option is safer than gas grills.
  • The 2-in-1 hotpot feature allows for versatility.
  • Each section comes with various temperature controls.
  • Made with a durable aluminum alloy.
  • The drainage system makes cleaning quick and easy.
Cons
  • Very large and heavy, so it is not portable.
  • Lack of visible indicator lights so may be dangerous if someone didn’t know it was on.

Conclusion

We believe the best indoor Korean BBQ grill if you are after an authentic, healthy cuisine at home, is the SEAAN Electric Hot Pot Grill Barbecue Grill Indoor Hot Pot.

Perfectly designed, it has a ton of cooking space and a 2-in-1 option making it perfect for large gatherings.

The non-stick features an oil catcher pan that makes cleaning easy, with it including everything you need to replicate Korean food.

If you are looking for a more portable option, then we recommend the Korean Style BBQ Grill Pan with Maifan Coated Surface Non-stick.

This grill is the best compact option, perfect for those of you who want your favorite meals while traveling on the road. While it lacks power, it still includes high-quality and excellent design features. It’s also a very affordable option.

So, which of these Indoor Korean BBQ Grill caught your eye?

Click on their names above and check them out now.

The post The 5 Best Indoor Korean BBQ Grills in 2023 appeared first on Own The Grill.

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Perfectly Smoked Pork Loin + Flavor Packed Marinade https://ownthegrill.com/smoked-pork-loin/ Sat, 03 Jun 2023 12:11:14 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=10532 Are you looking to cook the perfect pork loin.? To me, creating […]

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Are you looking to cook the perfect pork loin.? To me, creating a perfectly smoked pork loin comes down to a flavor-packed marinade and smoking technique.

We created this recipe not only to enjoy, but to help you choose the correct pork cut, proper storing and reheating, and the best side dish to go with your meat.

Here’s what we will cover:

Understanding Pork Loin vs. Pork Tenderloin

 

pork loin pork tenderloin

 

Pork loins are a larger cut of meat that comes from the back of the pig. Sold as bone-in or boneless, you can cut and cook a few different ways. Cut up into pork chops, roast it in the oven or you guessed it – smoke it!

Pork tenderloins are smaller and leaner cuts located inside the ribcage. It cooks quickly making it great for grilling, roasting, or stir-frying.

You can essentially smoke both for a delicious smoked pork recipe and our smoked pork tenderloin is equally as yummy.

To smoke a pork loin perfectly, look for a cut of meat with visible marbling. Choose whether you want to work with a bone-in or a boneless pork loin. They’re both great to smoke. I feel the bone-in gives a bit more tenderness and flavor to the meat, but if you’re serving for a large crowd then boneless is definitely easier to work with and slice up.

Plan for approximately 8 ounces per person when serving.

Smoking Your Pork Loin: Techniques and Tips

For an amazing smoky taste, here are our techniques and tips for preparing the smoked loin. Start by trimming off any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. If it has a fat cap then leave it intact but score in a 1/4″ crisscross pattern before adding oil to coat. Rub the dry rub on all sides. Refrigerate for at least three hours to one day prior to cooking to ensure top flavor results when placed on your smoker.

Ideal Smoking Temperature and Time

The ideal temperature while smoking your pork loin should be 225°F until the internal thermometer reads 145°F, so have your meat thermometer on hand! The estimated time spent per pound of meat for this temperature is 30 -40 minutes. To really add that extra depth we advise using oak, pecan, cherry, or apple wood pellets or wood chips which create wonderful smokey notes throughout. Choosing to use a pellet smoker or wood-burning grill comes down to preference

Essential Ingredients for Smoked Pork Loin

dry rub for smoking pork loin
dry rub

Now that we have chosen the perfect pork loin cut and techniques to prepare, let’s talk about the best pork loin rub. If we’re talking store-bought or premade smoked pork loin rub then Snake River has you covered. If you’re looking to get creative to work with ingredients you have on hand then we have a great go-to rub below.

Creating a Flavorful Marinade

To increase taste as it smokes on the grill or smoker, make sure to allow the smoked pork marinade to sit in the refrigerator for 3 hours or preferably longer in the juice rub is recommended.

It is important to score the fat cap of the loin in a cross-hatch pattern before applying any spices or condiments, around a quarter inch deep so that all flavors will be fully absorbed.

Smoked Pork Rub (for every 2-3 lbs)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)

Enhancing Your Smoked Pork Loin

stuffed pork loin
stuffed pork loin

There are many ways to kick it up a notch when smoking pork loin. Here are a few of our favorite add-ons:

Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin

For an even more delicious smoked pork loin, why not wrap it in bacon and glaze it with an amazing maple-bourbon combination for extra flavor? The bacon not only adds a smoky and savory flavor to the pork loin but also helps to retain moisture during the smoking process, preventing the meat from drying out.

How to wrap bacon on pork Loin

Make sure to use the seasoning rub and marinate the pork prior to wrapping. Try to use thin slices of bacon when wrapping to help evenly cook throughout. Bacon wrapped smoked pork loin roast may seriously be my favorite thing!

Stuffed Pork Loin

To stuff the loin roast your options are endless. Here are a few tips:

  • Slice

    Make sure to use a sharp knife and cut down the center lengthwise. It’s important that you don’t cut fully through. Just enough so that you can separate to put your stuffing in.

  • Stuff

    Spread your chosen filling evenly along the length of the pork loin, ensuring it fills the cavity created by the slit. Be generous with the filling, but avoid overstuffing, as it may make it challenging to roll and secure the pork loin.

  • Secure

    Carefully roll the pork loin back into its original shape, encasing the filling inside. Use kitchen twine to secure. Tie the twine at intervals along the length of the loin to prevent the filling from escaping.

  • Season & Smoke

    Season the loin with your preferred dry rub or seasoning, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Allow the smoked pork loin marinade to sit for at least 3 plus hours. Smoke the pork loin until it reaches the recommended internal temperature for doneness (145°F/63°C for medium-rare or 160°F/71°C for medium).

Popular Pork Loin Stuffing
  • Apple and Sage: Sliced apples, sautéed with onions and seasoned with fresh or dried sage.
  • Mushroom and Swiss cheese: Sautéed mushrooms with Swiss cheese.
  • Cranberry and walnut: Dried cranberries and chopped walnuts, sweetened with a touch of honey or maple syrup.

Properly Storing and Reheating Smoked Pork Loin

After enjoying your smoked pork, allow your leftover smoked pork loin to cool off before wrapping in plastic or placing it into a storage container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or use freezer-safe vacuum seal bags for up to 6 months of cold storage.

For reheating instructions you can either use an oven/grill combination if time allows. Put the smoked pork inside a covered dish with just two tablespoons of water as this will help keep the roast moist while heating at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes. You can also use the same technique and microwave if you’re pressed for time. Make sure to check on the pork about every 45 seconds until it’s heated through.

Complementary Side Dishes for Smoked Pork Loin

side dish

 

You can serve some great sides of BBQ favorites like coleslaw and baked beans. Whip up yummy sweet potatoes or other unique potato recipes. If you’re looking to keep your side light and delish you, can opt for a side vegan salad.

Additional Smoked Pork Recipes to Try

Once you’ve got the hang of making smoked pork loin, why not try out other variations? Pulled pork barbecue or Boston butt and smokey burnt ends made with a cut from the belly are all fair game. See what kind of results different brines, seasoning rubs or recipes can bring about!

Remember to make sure your thermometer is always on hand while working with meat so that its internal temperature stays within safe limits – plus don’t forget which wood chips will add just the right touch for desired flavors.

Summary

  • Understand the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin for your smoking preferences.
  • Choose the right cut of pork loin and explore flavorful marinades to enhance the smoky taste.
  • Learn smoking techniques, including wrapping in bacon or stuffing the loin for added flavors.
  • Discover ideal side dishes, proper storage, and reheating techniques.

bacon wrapped pork loin
Print

Smoked Pork Loin

Course Main Course
Cuisine BBQ
Keyword pork loin, smoked pork loin, smoking pork loin
Prep Time 10 minutes
3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6
Author Jenna Hansen

Ingredients

  • 3-4 pounds Pork Loin
  • 1 pack bacon slices optional if wrapping - see notes

Dry Rub Ingregients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to your preferred level of spiciness

Instructions

  • Start by combining all the herbs together to create a dry rub for the pork loin.
  • Rub the dry rub mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it's evenly coated. Allow the pork loin to marinate in the fridge for at least 3 hours or more.
  • Preheat your smoker to a temperature of around 225.
  • Place the marinated pork loin directly on the smoker rack, fat side up.
  • Close the smoker and let the pork loin smoke for approximately 2 1/2 - 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
  • Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pork loin from the smoker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Slice the smoked pork loin into thin, pieces and serve.

Notes

If you want to add wrap the pork loin in bacon:
Once the pork loin has marinated in the rub for 3+ hours, wrap the slices of bacon around and then continue with the directions above to place the meat on the smoker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to smoke pork loin at 225?

We recommend about 35 minutes per pound of pork loin when it’s being smoked at 225°F or until its internal temperature reaches 145°F. Allow the loin to rest after the cooking process to reach the proper temperature and lock the juices in.

How do you keep pork loin from drying out when smoking?

Try not to overcook a smoked pork loin to keep it from drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium doneness. Remember to allow the loin to rest. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to lock in all the flavor and moisture.

Should I smoke pork loin at 225 or 250?

To ensure the pork loin has juice and flavor, smoke low and slow. We recommend smoking at 225°F

How long to smoke a 4-pound pork loin at 225 degrees?

Smoking a 4-pound pork loin should take about 2 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium doneness.

The post Perfectly Smoked Pork Loin + Flavor Packed Marinade appeared first on Own The Grill.

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Flat Iron Steak – What Is It And How To Cook It https://ownthegrill.com/flat-iron-steak-what-is-it-and-how-to-cook-it/ Tue, 09 May 2023 22:40:05 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=7727 Beef flat irons are derived from the feather muscle which is found […]

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Beef flat irons are derived from the feather muscle which is found in the chuck and blade sections of the animal. In the classic method, a much hotter pan or grill is used to cook the steak; the sides are sealed and rested well in a warm place after they are cooked.

External gristle from the muscle is removed leaving lean steak with a nice marbled texture

With the popularity of flat iron steaks gaining momentum, you can find them in more grocery stores as well as on restaurant menus as a more affordable alternative to more expensive steak; it is almost as tender as a tenderloin at a fraction of the cost.

The purpose of this guide is to tell you everything you need to know about flat iron steaks and how you can cook one yourself using proper technique, so that this could become your new favorite at home! 

What Is The Flat Iron Steak?

Originally, flat iron steaks were part of the blade roast’s top section. In the middle of the blade roast is a hard connective tissue; it is from this that flat iron steaks are born.

During the butchering process, the bottom section of the steak is made into a flat iron steak, while the remainder is a top blade steak.

Its appearance resembles the traditional metal flat iron, for which the meat received its name. An even thickness and rectangular shape characterize the flat iron steak. Tender, flavorful marbling adds to the taste and texture. The steak is suitable for many different recipes.

The Taste Of A Flat Iron Steak

Steaks like flat iron steak, or top chuck steak, have marbling to give them a rich, beefy taste. With ingredients such as herbs and black pepper, you can add extra flavor to the beef cut by marinating it.

This marinated steak will be mouthwatering, flavorful, and juicy for a hearty appetite, no matter what marinade you choose. The marinades that we show you are good examples of what you can cook with, because they will improve the taste of your steak when you taste it.

Where To Purchase Flat Iron Steaks

You need to think about your options available to you before you purchase the best flat iron steak to cook with. We have compiled a couple of our favorite places you really need to be getting your steak from the next time you decide to cook it. 

Holy Grail Steak is one of the best places you need to be purchasing your steak from. A number of ranches and farms partner up with them because of their passion and meticulous attention to detail for raising cattle.

We agree. They use only the best cuts of meat on their website and you can order online whenever you want. You can get everything from luxury wagyu flat iron to grass-fed prime cut flat iron steaks.

Another option that we recommend would be using Amazon Fresh, since they offer top quality steaks at very affordable prices while still delivering the flavor you expect from the more expensive top cut steaks. If you have never ordered food from Amazon before, you might want to consider it as an option now.

Lastly, if your butcher is staring indifferently at you when you ask for a flat iron steak, it may be that the name or the cut hasn’t caught on in your area.

You can ask for a top blade steak if you’re not successful requesting a flat iron steak. Make every effort to locate one and taste it if it is still unavailable. It might be the steak of your dreams.

How To Store Flat Iron Steaks

Flat iron steaks tend not to last too long in the refrigerator, so plan to cook them within three to five days of purchasing them. Be sure to wrap it well in the packaging without adding too much air.

Keeping the food for later use requires removing from the store packaging and resealing it in a freezer bag or butcher paper, sucking out any excess air. You can keep the steak for three to six months if you do this.

How to Cook Flat Iron Steak

Several hours before cooking, season your steak with spices. Rub your favorite spices onto the meat about 2-4 hours before grilling it for the best results.

Any dry spice mix that you prefer, like garlic powder, oregano, or cumin, can be used. A few pinches of each spice should be combined in a small bowl, and the mixture should be blended together.

How to Cook Flat Iron Steak

Once your steaks have been spiced, rub them with clean hands and let them rest in the fridge until you’re ready to grill them. It is of course possible to simply add a few pinches of sea salt if you wish as your seasoning.

Many grocery stores and online retailers sell ready-made spice mixes for steak. In cases where you aren’t sure what to use, these are a good option.

After that, marinate your steaks in the sauce for at least an hour. Your steaks will be flavorful and juicy if you marinate them. Spices can be combined with oil, vinegar, and any other ingredients you like.

Everything has to be mixed together in a large bowl or plastic bag. If you are using a pre-made marinade, you can buy it at any grocery store. You can marinate your steak for at least one hour, or up to 12 hours.

Let the steaks rest at room temperature for an hour before cooking. Make sure that the steaks are kept somewhere away from children and pets in your kitchen.

Grilling cold meat on a hot grill can cause the meat to tear. The flat iron steaks can get too warm and become dangerous to eat if left out for more than one hour.

Prepare your grill for cooking by preheating it to about 600 °F. If you’re cooking steaks on a charcoal or gas grill, fire it up several minutes before you plan to cook them.

You’ll get a nice sear on the meat as the grill has time to get hot. Modern grills often come with thermometers, which can be very helpful. Even without one, you can still grill.

Just let the grill heat up for a bit before you start cooking. Don’t forget tongs for flipping the steaks, extra seasoning, if you wish to add it during cooking, and a clean plate for serving the steak.

Depending on your preference, you should grill the steak for two to five minutes on each side. Cook the steaks on the grill until done, about two minutes per side.

Whichever side you use first is not important. About 2 minutes per side is the recommended cooking time to get medium rare steaks. About 3-4 minutes is the recommended cooking time for medium steaks.

About five to six minutes per side is sufficient for well-done steaks. Make sure the steak is at the temperature you prefer using a meat thermometer. A medium-rare steak should be about 130°F, a medium steak 140°F and a well-done steak 160°F.

For the juices to redistribute, let the meat rest for 5 minutes. On a cutting board, let the steaks rest for about five minutes after they come off the grill.

A delicious, juicy steak will result from the juices settling throughout the steak. If you cut into your steak too soon, you might dry it out. Set a timer.

Keep the steak tender by cutting against the grain with a sharp knife. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving. Across a piece of meat, the muscle fibers are aligned in accordance with the grain.

A flat iron steak has a vertical line of muscle fibers. Rather than following the grain, cut them across horizontally in this case. You won’t end up with stringy steaks.

It is typical to slice flat iron steaks thinly when serving, but you may prefer to leave them whole. To store leftovers in the fridge for three to five days, place them in an airtight container.

Summary

As a result of reading this guide thoroughly, you should now understand what a flat iron steak is, and you should also know how to grill it according to the best method.

Even if you have never used a flat iron steak in the past, you will undoubtedly be considering it now because of the various options you have at your disposal.

Think about all the different marinades you might use when you cook your steak, and how delicious it will be with all the different flavors you’re going to get.

We have provided you with a list of a couple of places where you can try to purchase your flat iron steak and hopefully you will be able to cook it exactly as we have described.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Flat Iron Steak Good For You?

Protein and zinc are high in flat iron steak, as they are in most cuts of beef. Approximately 23 grams of protein and half of the recommended daily amount of zinc are present in a 3-ounce serving. In addition, it provides 15 percent of the recommended daily iron intake.

Is Flat Iron Steak Good?

Grilling this steak really brings out the rich flavor of the meat due to the high heat and short cooking time. A flat iron steak is very similar to any flat steak, so you will be able to use it in any recipe calling for skirt or flank steak.

A steak that has a nice amount of marbling is tender and is full of flavor as a result of the thick layers of marbling.

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Eye of Round Steak (What it is + 4 Ways to Cook it) https://ownthegrill.com/what-is-eye-of-round-steak/ Thu, 04 May 2023 00:43:48 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=7013 In the world of steaks, not all steak cuts are created equal. […]

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In the world of steaks, not all steak cuts are created equal. Some can be tough and chewy, fatty or lean, and low-priced, while others can break the bank. This is where the eye of round steak comes in. Called the “inexpensive cuts” of meat that are packed with juice and flavor, but only if cooked properly.

What is Eye of Round Steak?

The eye of round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the rump and hind legs of a cow. Since both the rump and hips are muscles that are worked hard by the cow, the eye of round is a lean piece of steak that’s tougher than the cuts you’re probably used to. You will typically see each cut around 1 inch thick and an average of 8 ounces.

picture of how and the steak cuts of meat

How Do You Prepare Eye of Round Steak?

Start by properly tenderizing the meat beforehand. I’m a big fan of tenderizing so get that mallet out and wack that steak. Once your steak is beaten up let’s talk marinade.

Using an acidic-based marinade can create a more tender steak. This helps to deconstruct the meat’s connective tissue and lends the steak a more tender texture rather than a tough one. Let the marinade sit for a minimum of 4 hours but up to 24 hours. The longer the better!

Here is our favorite homemade marinade blend:

  • 4 tbsp lime juice

  • 2 tsp garlic powder

  • 2 tsp onion powder

  • 2 tsp cumin

  • 2 tsp coriander

  • pinch of kosher salt and pepper

  • 2 8oz Eye of Round Steaks

    *Use this blend for all of your round steak recipes

Ways To Cook Eye Of Round Steak

This requires some knowledge to achieve the desired result. Experts too may encounter challenges when cooking eye of round steak.

What we have found is our tenderizing and marinating method listed above plus the proper cooking technique can help you achieve the most tender and juicy eye of round steak in town.

Here are the methods we recommend with eye of round recipes:

1. Grill

It’s important to look for eye of round steaks that are at least 1 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak will cook evenly and not dry out too quickly. You’ll want to tenderize the steak with a mallet. Do not skip this step. Since this particular cut of meat is lean and tough, breaking up the connective tissue is mandatory.

Marinating can help tenderize and infuse it with flavor. Season with salt and pepper and/or your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend.

Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side on medium heat for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking the steak. You can leave it on longer if you want a more well-done steak however our preferred way to eat is medium rare.

2. Sous Vide

While not difficult, this method requires more specialized equipment and time, but it results in a perfectly cooked roast every time.

This cooking method involves vacuum-sealing the steaks in a plastic bag and cooking them in a temperature-controlled water bath. The vacuum-sealed bag also helps to lock in the flavors and juices of the meat (use that marinade we talked about above).

vacuum sealed steaks for sous vide

Once the steaks have been cooked to the desired level of doneness, they can be seared in a hot skillet or roasted in the oven for a few minutes. This will give a nice brown crust on the exterior with flavor and juice on the inside.

3. Bake

Who doesn’t love a classic way to cook beef? With just a few ingredients, you can have the best-tasting steak.

First, you’ll need to tenderize and season the steaks. Next, sear in a cast iron skillet or saute pan with olive oil (you can also add a little unsalted butter) on medium-high heat for about 2 minutes on each side. This will give a crusty outer layer before cooking the inside. Last, place them in a roasting pan and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C).

We highly recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked to your liking. For medium-rare doneness, the internal temperature should be about 135°F (57°C).

Once they’re cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, so you’ll end with a tender and juicy steak.

4. Slow Cook

Using a slow cooker can be beneficial for a few reasons. This cut of meat is known for being lean and relatively tough. Just like beef stew, slow cooking allows the meat fibers to break down slowly and become more tender. It can also enhance the meat with flavor. You can add herbs and spices to the cooking liquid.

This method tends to be the most convenient way to cook. Make sure you tenderize the meat prior to cooking and I always like to give a quick sear on the outside before adding to my crock pot. Using beef broth and little beef stock adds a ton of flavor. Once it’s prepared, there’s very little to worry about. Make sure to add veggies and serve with mashed potatoes. You can pour the amazing juice over them and enjoy!

*You can also use this method and cook in a Dutch oven.

Is Eye of Round Steak and Roast the same?

So the beef is from the same part of the cow, but they are not the same cut. The eye of round steak is thinly sliced (1 inch thick), lean, and tough. The eye of round roast is a larger cut of meat(3-4 inches thick) and has less fat than other beef roasts, but is still lean and a bit tough. I promise though, when prepared and cooked properly both can be amazing!

How Do You Tenderize an Eye of Round Steak?

Tough cuts of meat have a lot of connective tissue that can make them chewy and difficult to eat. Tenderizing the meat can break down this tissue, making the meat more tender.

When you tenderize meat, you create small channels in the meat that can help to distribute seasoning and marinades throughout the meat. 

Here are the steps on how to tenderize steak:

  1. Place the steak on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from tearing.

  2. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the steak with the flat side of the mallet. Start at the center of the steak and work your way out to the edges.

  3. Avoid pounding the steak too hard, as this can cause the meat to become too thin and lose its shape.

  4. Flip the steak over and repeat on the other side.

Does Eye Of Round Steak Go By Other Names?

Almost every cut from the round primal will have ‘round’ in the name, which can make things quite confusing. There are a few different names commonly used to describe the eye of round steak.

These names include:

  • beef round

  • beef eye

  • round steak

  • beef round

  • steak boneless

Other Cuts Similar to the Eye of Round Steak

Here are a few other lean cuts of beef that come from the hindquarters of the cow. Just like eye of round, they are a tougher cut of meat.

  • Bottom Round

  • Top round

  • Sirloin tip

  • Flank steak (comes from the lower abdominal area or flank of the cow)

Where Can You Buy Eye of Round Steaks?

  • Most supermarkets carry eye of round steaks in an affordable pack, usually containing three or four thinly sliced steaks. For thicker cuts that you’re looking to grill, you’ll probably be better checking at the meat counter or at a butcher.

Do You Have a Favorite Eye of Round Steak Recipe?

It’s tough to determine the “best” eye of round steak recipe since personal preferences and tastes can vary. We are happy to share our simple and flavorful round steak recipe that’s our “go-to” when cooking.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound eye of round steak

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

    1. Preheat the grill to high heat.

    2. Using a mallet, smack the meat to tenderize, about 15 seconds on each side.

    3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

    4. Brush the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the steak.

    5. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until desired doneness is reached.

    6. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Other Steak Cuts for Home Grilling

Here are a few more of our favorite steaks and how to grill them:

How to Reverse Sear a T-Bone

How to Grill the Perfect New York Strip

Kobe Beef Cooked at Home

Top Takeaways for Eye Of Round Steak

  • Comes from the rump and hind legs of a cow.

  • Is a leaner tougher cut that should be tenderized and marinated prior to cooking.

  • The top ways to cook are to grill, sous vide, bake, or slow cook.

  • A round steak and round roast come from the same part of the cow but they are not the same cut.

  • Similar cuts of meat are bottom round, top round, and sirloin tips.

  • Most supermarkets carry the eye of round steaks and roasts. If not check with a local butcher.

     

 

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Top 3 Grill Guns – A Complete Buyer’s Guide https://ownthegrill.com/grill-gun/ Sat, 29 Apr 2023 16:11:47 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=9551 Greetings, grill enthusiasts! Today we’d like to introduce something that can rekindle […]

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Greetings, grill enthusiasts! Today we’d like to introduce something that can rekindle the passion you once felt for grilling. Yes, we are talking about a grill gun – a device that will quickly ignite your charcoal barbecue.

Your grilling experience will be easier and more fun thanks to the widest and strongest flame available from these hand-held torches.

However, not all grilling guns are worth the money – some of them won’t deliver the results they’re supposed to, and others will break very quickly. Some grill guns even struggle to start a fire!

In order to save you time and help select the best one for you, we are pleased to share our list of the top grill guns that will ramp up your grilling accessories. Continue reading and choose the one that best fits your needs. 

 

Best Grill Gun Review

Here is the list of the top 5 grill guns available:

SearPro Charcoal Lighter

The top item on our list is the SearPro Charcoal Lighter.

This little, portable torch can achieve temperatures of over 1,800° F and boasts one of the broadest, most vigorous flames of any torch on the marketplace.

It is perfect for various tasks, including searing steaks, roasting bell peppers, coating baked ham, melting cheese, and more. Additionally, it is quite strong for lighting your fireplace, charcoal barbecue, glass blowing torch, welding torch, and even melting metal!

It has an adjustable fuel control mechanism, allowing you to use as little or as much flame as necessary to complete the task. It is also so compact that it may easily fit in your kitchen drawers or backpack for outdoor excursions. 

What’s even more important is that this torch comes with a 6-month guarantee and a full refund if you’re not satisfied with it for any reason! 

Things we Like
  • Extremely powerful
  • Convenient for performing various tasks
  • It has an adjustable fuel control
  • Compact size 
  • Affordable price 
  • 6-month warranty and money-back guarantee 
Things we Don’t Like 
  • Due to the fuel it consumes, it might be dangerous for some people

The SearPro Charcoal Lighter is the ideal choice for anyone looking for the best gear for their grilling supplies. It is lightweight, sturdy, and capable of baking your ham or lighting your charcoal grill in just a few seconds.

BLUU Grill & Cooking Propane Torch 

The next item on our list is the BLUU Grill & Cooking Propane Torch – a powerful torch that can swiftly finish your meat and produce the most delectable flame.

This multi-purpose propane kitchen torch is suitable for professional cooking, grilling meat, melting cheese, toasting bread crumbs, and much more. Additionally, it can be used to start bonfires, grills, and fireplaces, and its portable propane torch head is ideal for quickly searing food.

This torch has an adjustable control and a flame temperature range of up to 2,400° F, making it ideal for the majority of applications.

Additionally, this torch lighter is compatible with the majority of commercially available propane tanks and may be used with propane, MAPP, or MAP-Pro gas.

What’s more, it comes in two sizes, medium and large, to suit different demands and preferences.

Things we Like 
  • Portable grill torch 
  • Extremely strong and resilient
  • Multi-purpose torch 
  • Adjustable flame control 
  • It can be used with propane, MAAP, or MAP-Pro gas
  • It comes in two sizes
Things we Don’t Like
  • It can be a bit pricey for some people 
  • Some people believe that this torch is risky because it uses gas 

If you’re looking for a powerful, multifunctional kitchen torch, BLUU Grill & Cooking Propane Torch is the one to go with! This grill gun comes in a choice of two sizes and is ideal for both professional cooking and lighting your barbecue with your friends in the backyard.

Cooouds Propane Grill Torch

The last option on our list is the Cooouds Propane Grill Torch. 

This barbeque torch is ideal for toasting bread crumbs, melting cheese, grilling steaks and bell peppers, and sous-vide cooking. Additionally, it can be used to start bonfires, grills, and fireplaces.

This strong torch has an adjustable knob so users may change the quantity of gas flow to customize the flame to their preferences. It can produce a strong flame and attain a maximum operating temperature of 1,472° F, which is readily reached by the temperature needed for daily bonfires and barbecues.

It is appropriate for the majority of propane tanks sold today and may be used with propane, MAPP, and MAP-Pro gas.

The meal becomes more appetizing because the working temperature range of 1,400 – 2,400°F enables the gas in the tank to completely burn before reaching the food.

This torch has a year of quality assurance service included, and the team is always there to help!

Things we Like 
  • Multi-purpose barbeque torch 
  • Extremely powerful 
  • Has an adjustable temperature knob 
  • 1-year quality assurance service included
  • Can be used with propane, MAPP, and MAP-Pro gas
Things we Don’t Like
  • It might be a little pricey for some individuals 

The Cooouds Propane Grill Torch is the one to choose if you’re looking for a powerful and effective grilling tool! It is a versatile grill gun that will perfectly complement your grilling equipment.

Things to Consider Before Picking a Grill Gun 

After reviewing our list of the top grill guns, it’s time to examine the criteria we used to choose our favorites. 

A kitchen blowtorch should, first of all, be capable of performing a wide range of activities, such as evenly caramelizing sugar for crème brûlée, searing sous-vide steaks, and melting cheese on hamburgers.

A torch should also be simple to use, manageable with just one hand, and a comfortable to grip – it ought to ignite with a powerful, steady flame. A decent torch should, above all, give the user a lot of control and, as a result, a safe margin of error.

Let’s examine in further detail what a decent torch should resemble.

Functionality 

If you can’t start a flame, a blowtorch isn’t much use – safety becomes a major problem if you can’t manage that flame.

Even though that might sound absurd, you’d be shocked by the number of models that either don’t start on the first click, or, even worse, start then abruptly shut off.

The consistency of the flame, heat output, safety, and ergonomics, as well as the flavors added to dishes, should all be considered while choosing the best functional torch.

Size, Color, and Heat Output 

A blue flame is preferred in the realm of kitchen torches –  orange or yellow flames from a torch frequently signify incomplete or ineffective fuel combustion.

Soot, which manifests as yellow or orange incandescence in a flame, will form as a result of the additional unburned carbon. As a result, food cooked over an orange flame may taste sooty or like gasoline.

Along with flame color, it’s important to take note of the flame’s size and spread – it should produce a strong and effective flame!

Portability 

It is crucial to consider a grill gun’s size and portability before selecting one.

If you wish to light your BBQ outside, you will need a smaller model that you can bring with you wherever you go and store safely in your kitchen drawer.

If you choose a larger one, be prepared for larger fuel consumption as well as transportation issues when bringing it in from outdoor use.

Price

Even though some grill guns are well worth their money, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee that paying more for one means you’ll obtain torches of the highest quality.

Always aim for the option that offers the best features and functionality while remaining within your budget.

Naturally, be a little bit more prepared if you want to get grill torches from the most well-known brand – they are usually more expensive. 

Final Thoughts 

We appreciate you sticking with us through to the end of our buying guide. We sincerely hope that we have provided you with the best options on Amazon and that we have given you some insight into the features that the best grill guns should have.

To reiterate one more time – never allow the appearance from the outside determine which grill torch is the best. Always go for one with excellent functionality, a blue flame, and a small size if you’re looking for one to bring to outdoor grill events! 

If we had to choose just one, we would choose the ZAUTNKN Kitchen Blow Torch, since it is the most economical and powerful option.

Visit ownthegrill.com for more useful tips on how to improve your grilling skills and prepare unique meals for you and your loved ones.

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The Best Raclette Grills of 2023 https://ownthegrill.com/best-raclette-grill/ Sat, 29 Apr 2023 12:53:28 +0000 https://ownthegrill.com/?p=9563 Melted cheese on delicious food. Is there anything better than that? With […]

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Melted cheese on delicious food. Is there anything better than that? With the raclette grill, you can serve melted cheese from individual pots, with it also doubling up with a grill stone to cook your chicken, steaks, or even potatoes. They remind us of flat top griddles but enhanced with more features. 

Deciding on the best raclette grill for you can be a tough task. We have compiled a list of the raclettes in 2023, and what you should look for when choosing one.

Let’s get into it.

What is a Raclette Grill?

A raclette grill is a special type of grill used for cooking and melting cheese, typically raclette cheese. It consists of a hot plate or grill on the bottom that can be heated, and an upper section with pans that can hold slices of cheese, meat, vegetables, etc.

How Do You Use A Raclette Grill?

To use a raclette grill, slices of raclette cheese are placed into the individual pans on the upper section. Meat, potatoes, vegetables, etc. are also placed on the hot grill below. As the cheese melts, it can be scraped off the pan onto the grilled food items. This allows each person to customize their meal with melted cheese on top.

Raclette grills are designed for heating and melting the cheese efficiently while also cooking food on the grill. The cheese pans are tilted so the melting cheese can drip down over the food. These grills are popular for raclette parties and dining where everyone sits around the grill cooking their own portions and customizing with cheese.

Where did the Raclette Grill Come From?

The raclette grill was invented in Switzerland and is commonly used for traditional Swiss raclette meals. However, all sorts of meats, vegetables, breads, and accompaniments can be cooked on the grill alongside the melted cheese. It provides a fun, interactive way to enjoy melted cheese and grilled foods.

What are the Best Raclette Grills?

What Should You Look For In A Raclette Grill?

Variable Temperature Control

Burnt cheese is the worst. And without adjustable temperature control, you are either going to have to eat all of the cheese at once or end up throwing some in the trash. 

To avoid these scenarios, you should look for an electric raclette grill that has a heating element that can keep food warm, or one that has versatile cooking options so you can keep the food items at a precise temperature.

Non-Stick Coating

Having to use lots of oil can ruin your grilling experience, turning delicious meals into unhealthy, messy, and tasteless cheese dishes.

Luckily, a lot of the electric grills are engineered carefully to make the cooking process easier, with each cooking surface and raclette pan being designed with safe non-stick surfaces. 

Heat Proof Handles

Cheese melting requires a lot of heat, resulting in the raclette dish ultimately becoming very hot. 

Without heat-resistant handles, this can make food removal dangerous and painful.

The ideal option for electric grills is to have stay-cool handles. A metal handle would need to be accompanied by a heat-resistant plastic, so you can pick up your favorite foods without your family dinners ending with a trip to the hospital. 

Grilling Surfaces

Deciding on the grilling surface perfect for you is important.

Other than a non-stick grilling surface, you need one that can accommodate your needs. Are you hosting a cheese raclette party or just grilling for the family? What kinds of meat are you planning to cook?

The basic raclette grills use a metal grill. This surface works fine and makes cooking meats and different types of foods fun, but could leave grill marks.

The most common option is a granite grill stone, as it provides a flat surface. This allows for healthier cooking, while also heating the food more evenly. This granite stone grill surface is a popular option that can cook a variety of foods.

Cooking Power And Time To Heat Up

Raclette cheese is too good not to be on your plate perfectly creamy. It’s even worse being sat around at a dinner party, waiting for it to cook, when you want to be making meals for the group.

Having a grill with high power output, and power cords you can plug into the wall can make melting the cheese efficient and effective. Rather than having a lumpy piece of cheese in your cheese grill, you want one that drastically decreases the cooking time, so you can have cheese in minutes.

An electric heating element can vary the watts of power, making temperature adjustment a lot more versatile and simple.

5 Best Raclette Grills In 2023

Swissmar Classic 8-Person Anthracite Raclette with Cast Aluminum Grill Plate

The Swissmar Classic Raclette is a unique and aesthetically pleasing grill, with the aluminum reversible grill plate allowing for a wide range of delicious food, from steaks to pancakes, to being cooked.

The Swissmar is small and versatile, making it perfect as a portable raclette grill. 

The grill plate has a grooved surface with a non-stick coating, meaning you can cook a variety of foods without having to worry about it sticking to the pan.

This is the perfect indoor table grill, with its adjustable grill temperatures and high power output allowing for a variety of cooking options, including keeping food warm.

This grill comes with eight raclette dish holders, each having its adjustable heat controls and separate heating element.

The heating process of the cheese is quick, and the removal of food is even quicker, with each pan having an anti-stick coating and eight heat-resistance spatulas. 

Pros 
  • Adjustable grill temperature.
  • Eight non-stick pans, making it ideal for a cheese raclette party.
  • Each pan has its variable heat control so you can keep food warm.
  • A reversible grill makes for versatile cooking options.
  • High power output.
  • Eight heat-resistant spatulas so you can avoid burns.
Cons
  • The aluminum cooking surface is basic, rather than the standard granite raclette table grill.
  • There is a lack of visible indicator lights which can help to determine if the grill or pans are ready to cook.
  • Grooves in the grill can make it very hard to clean.

CUSIMAX Raclette Grill Electric Grill Table

The Cusimax raclette grill is an affordable option, with a Korean BBQ grill meaning you and the family can cook a wide variety of your favorite meats in a unique and tasty way.

The grill itself is reversible with its variable temperature control, so you can get the perfect surface and temperature for cooking pancakes, delicious crepes, or even eggs for breakfast.

Every section of this product has an anti-adhesive coating, with each tray having a separate heating element. This can guarantee that your favorite dish will be cooked at the perfect temperature and the removal of foods even easier.

Now the main feature – the raclette trays. This portable grill comes with eight individual raclette trays with a non-stick coating, so you aren’t losing any of that delicious Swiss cheese.

The pans for raclette cheese also come with eight heat-resistance handles, and adjustable thermostats, so you can have cheese in minutes, but keep it warm for hours.

The drawback with this type is the lack of space and power. The grill is not great for serving lots of people and has been reported to take a while to cook.

Pros
  • Nonstick cooking surfaces on each section.
  • A grooved surface allows you to grill to the desired food shade and removes excess cooking oil.
  • The flat surface is versatile and can even be used as a crepe maker.
  • Eight raclette dish holders with heat proof.
  • Each raclette pan has its own heat level and adjustable thermostats.
  • Worry-free 180-day return policy.
Cons
  • Not a great party grill. While you can get a cheese per person, the grill is not big enough to serve a lot of people.
  • The maximum temperature is not hot enough to cook large foods, such as whole chickens.
  • The griddle plate does not have a drip tray, so make sure to put a bowl underneath when cooking items with lots of oil and fat.

Hamilton Beach 8-Serving Raclette Electric Indoor Grill

Another great option for a smokeless indoor grill, the Hamilton Beach indoor grill is a great piece of equipment to use as a party grill, or just at the dinner table.

The dual cooking surface is one of the larger grills on this list. It has a flat cooking surface, perfect for cooking morning or breakfast or delicious crepes. While the other surface is grooved, making it a great BBQ grill.

Both surfaces come with an essential non-stick feature. This makes the removal of foods and cleaning afterward, less of a daunting task. 

Eight non-stick raclette cheese pans also accompany the grill. This is great for family fun or a cheese raclette party, as everyone can get their own individual portions. 

Every tray has a heating element, adjustable heat features, and heat-resistant handles, meaning you can customize your meals, keep them at the right temperature, and pick them up without hassle or worries.

The indicator light at the front of the grill informs you when the grill is on. However, it does not help to determine when the grill is ready to use, which is an essential feature to some.

Additionally, with the grill being a duo plate, rather than reversible, you are losing some of the surface areas.

This is one of the lesser expensive options on the list, which is arguably why the power rating is toward the lower end of the spectrum. While cooking food thoroughly, meat has been reported to take much longer to cook.

Pros 
  • Dual cooking surfaces – flat and grooved.
  • All pieces of equipment have non-stick features.
  • Adjustable temperature control on the griddle, and the cheese pots.
  • Relatively large.
  • Heat-proofed, meaning safe for family fun.
Cons
  • The grill isn’t reversible, meaning you lose out on the surface area.
  • Not very portable.
  • Low relative power output.
  • Lack of indicator lights.

Milliard Raclette Grill for Eight People, Includes Granite Cooking Stone

The Milliard raclette grill is great for family fun, or the hosting of a get-together. This piece of equipment tends to sell out very quickly, being one of the more luxury options.

The first thing you will notice with this grill is that it doesn’t use the basic aluminum grill, but rather takes the standard form of the granite cooking stone. With this type of surface, you can expect a more uniform cook of your meats, or veggies.

The grill also comes with non-stick features, essential for the daunting task of cleaning, as well as a reversible feature, making it a versatile BBQ option, or great for re-heating foods.

The grill works hand-in-hand with the cheese melting pots. These raclette trays make it easy to have individual portions of cheese, with heat-resistant handles making it safe to touch at any point in your meal.

This grill also comes with adjustable temperature features, meaning you can cook your steak, then keep it warm, by simply adjusting the knob on the side. The power input is relatively high with this piece of equipment, coming in at 1200 watts.

Pros
  • Reversible, non-stick grill for versatility.
  • Eight cheese pots with heat-proof handles.
  • Large grill size.
  • Granite Cooking stone makes for evenly cooked meats.
  • High power input so cooks quicker.
Cons
  • Not very portable.
  • Lacks any heat indicator lights.

Artestia Raclette Table Grill,1500W Raclette Grill

 

The final option on this list is the most powerful grill and unique design, the Artestia Raclette Table Grill. Coming in at 1500 watts, you can expect it to heat up extremely quickly.

The grill also has a large granite cooking surface, as well as a reversible aluminum cooking surface, meaning you can switch between the two depending on the food shade you are after, or the type of food you want to cook.

Every aspect of this grill comes with non-stick features. This allows for healthier cooking with no need for butter or oil, while also reducing the hours of cleaning up afterward.

This grill is accompanied by 10 cheese raclette dishes, making it one of the better options for a party, or a larger gathering. Each dish comes with a heat-proof spatula, making it safe and worry-free.

This grill even comes with various adjustable thermostat knobs, with visible indicator lights, meaning you can keep food warm, heat things up, or cook food quickly.

Pros 
  • Granite stone and reversible aluminum plate for a variety of cooking techniques.
  • Heat proofed.
  • Adjustable temperature controls with indicator lights.
  • High power output so heats up quickly.
  • 10 cheese pots making it great for large gatherings.
Cons
  • It’s not very portable.

Conclusion

To wrap up, we would probably say the best raclette grill in 2022 is the Artesia Raclette Table Grill,1500W Raclette Grill.

This grill is the best option for a large gathering since it’s able to heat up quickly and has adjustable temperature controls and unique cooking options. 

If you are looking for a more portable option, then you should probably go for the Swissmar Classic 8-Person Anthracite Raclette with Cast Aluminum Grill Plate

While it may lack in surface area, it is still great to use, with it having all the features you want in a grill, while being able to use them in small spaces, such as a tent.

 

The post The Best Raclette Grills of 2023 appeared first on Own The Grill.

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