Outdoor Barbeque - A Pleasant Party Al Fresco

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Outdoor Barbeque - A Pleasant Party Al Fresco - By: Peter Finch, Posted on: 2007-11-29

An outdoor kitchen will not be complete and wholesome without a barbecue. The outdoor barbecue can be built according to the specific options and colours which fits the individual backyard.

There are a number of varieties of barbecues available in the market from portable kettle type to built-in-out door kitchens. One can buy a ready made barbecue or can get the one which can be assembled at home or can get a barbecue unit which can be installed in a stonework construction.

Since the barbecue in the outdoor is going to serve one for a long term, wise decision should be made in purchasing the suitable one. Decision has to be made keeping in mind how and where one has to install it, whether it should be portable, will it be used frequently, whether it is meant for a large crowd or for few members and will one need water, electricity and gas lines in the vicinity.

The outdoor barbecue island structure consists of Island frame, counter top, ventilation, access doors, and propane or gas storage. Based upon the crowd the size of the barbecue can be selected. The models which have the cooking area greater than 800 square inches will be sufficient for big parties.

The medium size grilling area will be of 490 square inches and will be suitable for infrequent large gatherings. The smaller size grills will be 350 square inches which is enough for normal family gatherings. When the barbecue is used for large gatherings it necessitates the large preparation area and warming racks too. The height of the countertop should be 32-36 inches and depth 24 inches.

The burners in the barbecue may have independent control. If there are more burners it will have greater latent heat production and will offer cooking flexibility. The heat out put from the burners will be measured in British Thermal Units. Most of the barbecues will have one to four burners. There may be side burners too. Most of the grills will have electric igniters.

The fuels that can be used in a gas burner can be liquid propane or natural gas. If there is a natural gas supply nearby it is better to hook up sing it eliminates the need for refilling the LP tanks or buying it. It also relieves from the tension of running out of fuel in between cooking.

The outer side of the fire box should be made of stainless steel, painted steel or cast iron. Stainless steel is a better choice but it will turn yellow if not kept covered. Painted steel tends to rust when the paint gets scratched or peeled off.

A long lasting outdoor barbecue will have grills, burners and handles made of stainless steel. The stainless steel hoods will have dual layer which aids in keeping heat inside and let the air remain cool outside the barbecue.

Extra attachments will be of more benefit like a foldable table attached for counter space, thermometers, sink, refrigerator, lighting and also holders or hooks for holding condiments and utensils.

Article Source: http://www.girlarticles.com

Ex Hotel General Manager and culinary expert, Peter Finch, hosts a site dedicated to one of his favorite forms of cookery - barbecue. If you are looking for information on barbecues? or advice on barbecue recipes or outdoor barbecue, visit us now. BestBarbecues.co.uk is a goldmine for information on barbecues.