GoKawiilWhat constitutes a grill? Most of us think of a grill as an outdoor cooking appliance with grates, such that grill marks are achievable, whether it's powered by wood pellets, charcoal or gas. Different regions put different spins on the word, however. "Grill" in the UK, for example, refers to the top-down broiler function in an oven. (Consider Burger King's "flame broiled" terminology, which also confuses matters.) The very existence of a "flat-top grill," furthermore, would seem to negate the grates theory as well, since the defining characteristic of a flat top is the very absence of grates.
In truth, "grill" most broadly means the direct application of high heat, in which case all the above methods apply. If you've ever struggled with the feeling that you're supposed to have a grill for outdoor seasonal cooking (the grated kind) but find yourself looking for excuses not to use it -- because it's too hard to clean or because you can't seem to master it -- it's possible that maybe what you actually need is a flat-top grill.
But is a flat-top grill worth it? I consulted an expert, Erica Blaire, the Food Network's BBQ Brawl champion, acclaimed pitmaster, and ambassador for Beef. It's What's for Dinner. Blaire offered insight into the nuances of flat-top cooking and whether it might be right for you.
What is a flat-top grill and how does it work?
Flat-top grills have become popular. There's less daily cleaning but slightly more ongoing maintenance to consider. Weber
While the term may be obvious to some, many people associate flat tops with indoor cooking, such as on a griddle. "A flat-top grill is basically a griddle," says Blaire. "You're going to be searing. You're not smoking, and you're not grilling in the traditional sense," she said. With a flat-top grill, "you are searing on a uniformly hot surface with no airflow underneath it."
Flat-top grills feature a flat, solid metal cooking surface with zones powered by individual burners, depending on the model's size. While many small griddles are available for indoor use, some of which can sit directly on your kitchen range for heat, outdoor flat-top grills are typically electric or gas-powered.
What can you use a flat-top grill for?
Smashburgers, pancakes, and home fries are just a few flat-top grill foods you can make with ease. Weber
Consider your typical grill fare or outdoor cooking needs, then ask yourself whether a griddle or flat top might be a better fit than a traditional grill.
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