Looking for the best infrared grill on the market today? Check out our review of the Big Horn Outdoors Infrared Grill! Grilling enthusiasts and barbecue aficionados know that the right grill can make all the difference when it comes to achieving those perfect sear marks and mouthwatering flavors.
If you’re in the market for a top-tier grill, look no further than the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of infrared grilling, delve into the features that set the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill apart, and provide a tantalizing array of grilling recipes to ignite your culinary creativity. Get ready to elevate your grilling game to new heights!
1. The Art of Infrared Grilling
1.1. What Is Infrared Grilling?
Before we dive into the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill, let’s explore what sets infrared grilling apart from traditional methods. Infrared grilling utilizes cutting-edge technology to achieve high temperatures and even heat distribution. Instead of relying solely on convection and direct contact, infrared grills use a ceramic or metal plate to radiate intense heat directly onto the food.
1.2. Why Choose Infrared?
The benefits of infrared grilling are numerous:
- High Temperatures: Infrared grills can reach incredibly high temperatures, perfect for achieving a perfect sear on steaks and other meats.
- Even Heat: Infrared grills distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, eliminating hot spots and ensuring consistent results.
- Reduced Flare-Ups: The intense heat of infrared grilling reduces flare-ups, making it easier to control the cooking process.
- Faster Cooking: Thanks to the high heat output, infrared grills cook food faster, saving you time while preserving moisture and flavor.
1.3. BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Grill Overview
The BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill takes infrared grilling to the next level. Let’s explore some of its key features and benefits in detail.
2. Key Features and Benefits of the Best Infrared Grill
2.1. Extreme Heat: 1500 Degrees of Grilling Power
The standout feature of the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill is its extraordinary grilling power. It can reach temperatures up to 1500 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considerably higher than many other infrared grills on the market. This extreme heat capability allows for quick and precise searing, locking in juices and creating those coveted grill marks on your favorite cuts of meat.
2.2. Even Heat Distribution
Achieving consistent results on the grill is crucial, and the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill excels in this regard. Its infrared technology ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the cooking surface, eliminating cold spots and ensuring that every inch of your grill is ready for action. Whether you’re cooking steaks, seafood, or vegetables, you can trust that your food will be cooked to perfection.
2.3. Portable and Compact Design
Despite its impressive power, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill is surprisingly compact and portable. Its sleek design and folding legs make it easy to transport, making it an excellent choice for tailgating, camping trips, or simply moving it around your backyard. This level of portability allows you to take your grilling adventures wherever you desire.
2.4. Durable Construction
Durability is a top priority for any grill, especially one designed for high-temperature grilling. The BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Its stainless steel body not only looks sleek but also resists rust and corrosion, ensuring that your grill remains in excellent condition year after year.
2.5. Easy to Clean and Maintain
Grill maintenance is a breeze with the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill. The stainless steel cooking grates are easy to clean, and the removable drip tray captures grease, making cleanup a straightforward process. This means you can spend more time enjoying your grilled creations and less time scrubbing your grill.
With these exceptional features and benefits, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is poised to become your go-to outdoor cooking companion. Now, let’s explore some infrared grilling techniques to help you make the most of this powerful grill.
3. Infrared Grilling Techniques
3.1. Achieving the Perfect Sear
Infrared grilling excels at searing, creating a flavorful crust on meats while locking in their natural juices. To achieve the perfect sear on your steaks, follow these steps:
- Preheat your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill to the highest temperature setting.
- Season your steaks with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
- Place the steaks on the hot grill grates and sear each side for a few minutes until you achieve the desired level of browning.
- Move the seared steaks to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to finish cooking to your preferred level of doneness.
3.2. Mastering Indirect Heat
Infrared grills can also create zones of indirect heat, allowing you to cook food evenly without direct exposure to the intense infrared rays. Here’s how to master indirect heat cooking:
- For a two-burner grill like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS, turn one burner to high heat and leave the other burner off. This creates a hot zone and a cooler zone.
- Place your food on the cooler side of the grill to allow it to cook through without searing.
- This technique is ideal for cooking thicker cuts of meat or delicate items like fish. It ensures that the exterior doesn’t overcook before the interior reaches the desired doneness.
3.3. Smoking with Infrared
Believe it or not, you can achieve incredible smoky flavors on your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill, even though it’s primarily an infrared grill. Here’s a simple smoking technique:
- Soak wood chips (such as hickory, apple, or mesquite) in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain them.
- Create a smoking pouch by placing the soaked wood chips in a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Seal the pouch tightly.
- Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature.
- Place the smoking pouch directly on the grill grates over the burner. The pouch will begin to smoke as it heats up.
- Once the pouch is smoking, place your food on the grill grates in the indirect heat zone. Close the grill’s lid to trap the smoky flavor.
- Smoke your food to your desired level of smokiness, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain the smoke without overcooking your food.
Now that you’re equipped with some advanced grilling techniques, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show—delicious grilling recipes to try on your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill.
4. Delicious Grilling Recipes for Your BIG HORN OUTDOORS Grill
4.1. Juicy Steaks with a Sear
The high heat of your infrared grill is perfect for achieving the ultimate steakhouse sear. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- Thick-cut steaks (e.g., ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon)
- Olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill to its highest temperature setting.
- Brush the steaks with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the steaks on the grill grates and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep crust.
- Move the steaks to the indirect heat zone of the grill, close the lid, and continue cooking to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
- Once done, remove the steaks from the grill, cover them loosely with foil, and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
4.2. Cedar-Planked Salmon
Infuse your salmon with smoky, wood-fired flavor by grilling it on a cedar plank.
Ingredients:
- Salmon fillets
- Cedar grilling plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
- Olive oil
- Lemon slices
- Fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the soaked cedar plank with olive oil and place it directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and allow the plank to heat and start smoking for a few minutes.
- Place the salmon fillets on the hot cedar plank, skin-side down.
- Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and fresh dill. Add lemon slices on top.
- Close the grill lid and cook the salmon until it flakes easily with a fork, about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Carefully remove the cedar plank with the cooked salmon from the grill and serve.
4.3. Flavorful Vegetable Kebabs
Grilled vegetable kebabs are a colorful and tasty addition to any BBQ feast.
Ingredients:
- Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, onions)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the assorted vegetables onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating for variety.
- Brush the vegetable kebabs with olive oil and season with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the kebabs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve the vegetable kebabs as a side dish or as a delightful vegetarian main course.
4.4. Mesquite-Smoked Chicken Wings
Transform your chicken wings into smoky delights with mesquite wood chips.
Ingredients:
- Chicken wings
- Mesquite wood chips, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Olive oil
- Your favorite BBQ sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill to medium-high heat.
- Drain the soaked mesquite wood chips and place them in a smoking pouch.
- Place the smoking pouch directly on the grill grates over the burner.
- Brush the chicken wings with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken wings indirectly (opposite the side with the smoking pouch) for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re cooked through.
- During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the wings with your favorite BBQ sauce, allowing it to caramelize.
- Serve the mesquite-smoked chicken wings with extra sauce for dipping.
4.5. Grilled Pineapple Dessert
End your meal on a sweet note with grilled pineapple topped with a scoop of ice cream.
Ingredients:
- Pineapple rings, fresh or canned
- Olive oil
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the pineapple rings with olive oil and sprinkle with brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon.
- Grill the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop grill marks and caramelize.
- Serve the grilled pineapple rings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple and delightful dessert.
With these recipes, your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill becomes a culinary canvas, allowing you to create restaurant-quality dishes in the comfort of your own backyard. Now, let’s delve into grill maintenance and longevity to ensure your grill remains in peak condition.
5. Grill Maintenance and Longevity
5.1. Cleaning Tips
Proper cleaning is essential to keep your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill in optimal condition. Here are some cleaning tips:
- After each use, brush the grill grates to remove food residue. You can use a grill brush or scraper designed for infrared grates.
- Empty the drip tray regularly to prevent grease buildup and potential flare-ups.
- Wipe down the exterior of the grill with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any grease or dirt.
- Periodically inspect the grill’s burners, ignition system, and hoses for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.
5.2. Seasonal Care
Taking care of your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill during the off-season or when it’s not in frequent use is crucial for maintaining its longevity:
- Cover It Up: If your grill doesn’t have a dedicated cover, invest in a high-quality grill cover that fits snugly. Covering your grill protects it from the elements, including rain, snow, and UV rays, which can cause rust and corrosion over time.
- Propane Tank: If you’re using a propane grill, ensure that you turn off the gas supply and disconnect the propane tank when not in use. Store the tank in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Inspect the Hoses: Regularly inspect the hoses and connections for signs of wear, cracking, or leaks. Replace any damaged hoses or connectors immediately.
- Clean Before Storage: Before storing your grill for an extended period, give it a thorough cleaning. Remove all food residue, grease, and ashes. This helps prevent pests and corrosion during storage.
- Store Indoors: Whenever possible, store your grill indoors, such as in a garage or shed, during the off-season. This provides extra protection from the elements and extends the life of your grill.
5.3. Warranty Coverage
The BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Review the warranty terms and conditions provided by the manufacturer to understand what aspects of your grill are covered and for how long. Keep all relevant documentation, including your purchase receipt and warranty information, in case you need to make a warranty claim.
6. Customer Reviews and Testimonials
6.1. Real-World Experiences
To gain further insights into the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill’s performance and customer satisfaction, let’s take a look at some real-world experiences shared by users:
- “I’ve been using the BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill for over a year now, and it has become the centerpiece of our outdoor gatherings. The extreme heat makes it perfect for searing steaks, and it handles everything from delicate fish to hearty vegetables with ease. I also appreciate how easy it is to clean, making post-grilling chores a breeze.”
- “As someone who loves grilling on the go, the portability of this grill is a game-changer. I’ve taken it on camping trips, tailgates, and even to the beach. The fact that it can reach 1500 degrees is mind-blowing and ensures that I get restaurant-quality results wherever I go.”
6.2. User Satisfaction
Users have expressed a high level of satisfaction with the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill. Its extreme heat capabilities, even heat distribution, portability, and ease of use have made it a top choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting, this grill offers an exceptional grilling experience.
7. Conclusion
In conclusion, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is a true marvel of grilling technology. With its ability to reach temperatures up to 1500 degrees, even heat distribution, portability, and durable construction, it’s a grill that stands out in the world of outdoor cooking.
By mastering infrared grilling techniques and trying out delicious recipes, you can unleash the full potential of your BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill. From perfectly seared steaks to smoky salmon and grilled desserts, this grill is your gateway to culinary excellence.
Don’t forget to follow proper maintenance practices and seasonal care to ensure your grill’s longevity. With the manufacturer’s warranty backing you up, you can enjoy worry-free grilling adventures for years to come.
If you’re ready to take your grilling game to new heights and savor the flavors of outdoor cooking, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is the perfect choice. Elevate your grilling experience and embark on a journey of culinary delight with this exceptional grill. Happy grilling!