The Outdoor Grill

If you have a backyard or outdoor space and are reading this book, chances are you also have a grill. Unfortunately, many of you probably own propane-fired grills, because the results are predictable and passable. But anyone who cooks on propane knows in their heart that the true path to outdoor-grilling magic is charcoal.

And, as with all the tools needed to make great burgers, purchasing a decent charcoal grill will not empty your wallet. A kettle grill or portable hibachi, the standard in outdoor charcoal grilling, can set you back only about a hundred dollars, plus maybe an additional forty dollars for accessories (grill brush, cover, etc.). They also are somewhat portable. Toss your kettle grill in the back of your car, and you can spontaneously grill at a friend’s house or on the beach. You cannot do this with a propane grill.