Gas v's open flame cooking - the great debate
- Written by Diane Falzon
The ultimate grilling showdown is a popular hotly debated topic discussed around barbecues across Australia. Both sides of the grilling argument generate a lot of heat when it comes to which cooking methods serves it up best.  So what is the great debate all about?
Drum roll please…
What gives you the best in flavour and smoke when it comes to barbecue prowess? Is it gas or is it an open flame?
As gasps come from both sides of the argument, it is true to say that Samba, hand on heart, will show you that while both forms of barbecue create sumptuous food, there is nothing that can compare to an open flame grill.
Consistent gas
Is it the reliability of a gas flamed barbecue where you can meticulously monitor and adjust the cooking temperature as you cook, creating a mouth-watering end product for all to indulge and enjoy?
There is no question that gas grilling is a convenient and swift form of barbecuing, especially when you are short on time. You can create a barbecue at a moment’s notice, perfect for unexpected visitors or keen to get dinner done and dusted in a short spate of time.
However, with gas, there is always that elusive risk of running out of gas, which usually happens at the least most opportune time!
Open flame flavour bomb
The open flame is like the open road – you sit back, take your time and enjoy the ride. Handpick the right coals, get that flame going and watch it do its work as you cook up a storm.
Then you start tending to your chops, chicken or beef steaks, grilling them to perfection.
With an open flame, you get a hotter heat with that incomparable radiant heat from the flames to create barbecue magic. Also with an open flame, you get that delicious sear and caramelisation that is a sweet and savoury bomb. That richness in flavour can only come from an open flame. And that’s what a real barbecue is all about – flavour!
The open flame creates that mouth-watering smoking taste that is enveloped in every mouthful you take. And not to forget about the unforgettable aroma which wafts steadily as you prepare the meal. That can only come from an open fire.
And charcoal purists will undoubtedly proclaim that their barbecue methods will lead to more and better flavour. It is an artform mixed in with barbecue science. The formula cannot be defeated.
While open flame does warrant more time and attention. Believe us when Samba says, it is all worth it!
The Verdict
While personal preference prevails in this debate, you will never be able to surpass the art and science of an open flame. Your guests will thank you for it! And Samba can help you every step of the way.
For all your barbecue inspiration, visit https://www.sambafireandbbq.com.au/
