What grill rack material do you choose?
The grill rack is one of the most important parts of your barbecue. We spend little time choosing a good grill rack when we buy a barbecue, which should be way longer. That's why we want to tell you about the differences between the 5 most common grill racks: stainless steel, cast iron, enameled steel, chromed steel, and aluminum. Based on this information, you can choose the best material grill rack for you.
Cast iron and stainless steel
Cast iron barbecue rack
- Very suitable to sear steaks (with grill marks).
- Cast iron retains heat for longer, so you need less heat.
- Very durable because of the strong material.
- You have to clean cast iron relatively often.
- Cast iron can rust after a while.
Note: cast iron racks are heavy.
Stainless steel barbecue rack
- Stainless steel is very durable, because it doesn't rust.
- Hard material, so the grill rack doesn't wear.
- Easy to clean and easy to maintain.
- Stainless steel is relatively heavy.
- Stainless steel is pricey because of its ease of use.
Note: easy to clean with a stainless steel brush or abrasive sponge.
Chromed and enameled
Chromed steel barbecue rack
- All types of preparation possible.
- Relatively affordable compared to other materials.
- Has a protective layer of chrome against rust.
- Chromed steel racks aren't environmentally friendly to produce.
- Not durable, because the chrome layer can chip and rust.
Note: will damage when you clean it with an abrasive sponge.
Enameled steel barbecue rack
- All types of preparation possible, produces wide grill marks too.
- Has a protective layer of (porcelain) enamel against rust.
- Durable, and enamel won't chip.
- It can crack if you don't handle it carefully.
- Cleaning an enameled BBQ rack isn't easy.
Note: relatively expensive for what you get.
Aluminum
Aluminum BBQ rack
- Aluminum is relatively affordable compared to other materials.
- Doesn't rust, so it doesn't need maintenance.
- Aluminum is relatively thin, so the heat will transfer immediately.
- Aluminum is a fragile metal and damages easily.
- Not suitable for large roasts or steaks.
Conclusion
Do you want to prepare specific dishes like large roasts or seared steaks? And do you want enjoy the same grill rack for a long time? A cast iron or stainless steel rack suits you best. Do you only grill hamburgers and sausages, and don't mind buying a new rack occasionally? It's better to choose an aluminum rack or one of the steel ones. They're a bit more affordable.
Article by:
Leonie
Barbecue Expert.
