We know how it is. At first, the grill threatens to replace the stove at home. Then the oven. Then the grill surpasses all expectations - it takes over and replaces the home kitchen that has already been dusted. If you spend more and more time grilling but still occasionally have to return to your home kitchen to serve a side dish or sauce with your main dish and make coffee for your guests, here's a solution. It's time to have an outdoor kitchen that's not afraid of water, sun or wind - even in the Lithuanian climate.
An outdoor kitchen can be wow! But it's important to talk about it at the beginning so we can discuss the nuances.
The cult of barbecues and future predictions
If you are planning to set up your own individual outdoor kitchen and you already have a grill, don't rush to buy a new one. An outdoor kitchen can certainly work with both existing gas (stationary or built-in), both English or electric outdoor grills.
However, a large number of barbecue lovers are still generating ideas, sketching out projects and hoping for an outdoor kitchen that is not only stylish but also fully functional. How to achieve this? We recommend you look at global trends and see where the BBQ world is heading outside Lithuania - here are some statistics.
It turns out that the gas grill, often underestimated in Lithuania, is winning prizes abroad. Already a few years ago, sales of gas grills gained momentum in the US, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia. What are we basing this on? These and other sources: market.us, heartandhome.com, which relied on data collected by statistical departments.
After examining a number of charts and sources, we can safely say that the world's current barbecue market is dominated by gas barbecues, with charcoal barbecues in second place and electric barbecues in third place.
Don't be misled. Each type of grill mentioned is necessary and has been designed to meet the needs of different customers. Charcoal grills are favoured for their distinctive smoky flavour and are bought by enthusiasts who like a longer set-up process, electric grills are preferred by those who want to cook on the balcony, and gas grills are really the most versatile. They are a quick and easy way to cook a dinner or even a long barbecue with smoking, with extremely easy heat control and easy maintenance all in one.
The gas grill - the most indispensable attribute of an outdoor kitchen
In addition to the advantages already mentioned, the gas grill is also the ideal option for your outdoor kitchen. Why? The answer is simple - a wide range of options.
A gas grill can do more than fry, roast, braise or smoke. Certain gas grill models with an additional special charcoal tray instantly transforms a gas grill into a charcoal grill. So even on a gas grill, the ritual of real fire grilling can be fulfilled.
Many gas grills have a large cooking surface - just like an outdoor kitchen. If you are already planning an outdoor kitchen in your own backyard, it is probably logical to choose a grill that can cook a large number and variety of dishes at once.
For example, you can cook steaks, hamburger patties, vegetables or fish in the main cooking area. Simply choose the right heat for each of these dishes and you'll be able to serve them all at once. Gas grills also often come with a warming rack so you can toss the food that's still cooking and serve it later, still hot, along with the main course.
If you want your gas grill to blend in and fit in well with your outdoor kitchen or terrace, choose the outdoor kitchen furniture* built-in grills. Like stationary gas grills, these grills can also be equipped with an infrared horizontal rotating spit burner and an infrared Sizzle Zone burner.
The horizontal burner allows you to cook a large piece of meat such as chicken, turkey or pork neck. The horizontal burner for the rotisserie has a weight-balancing system and is easily adjustable to ensure both even cooking and a browned crust. The Sizzle Zone burner will also come in handy, and we promise it will be the number one invention for gourmet steak lovers!
Many gas grills also boast illuminated handles and a luxurious, solid, elegant design that fits in perfectly with outdoor kitchen interiors.
Outdoor kitchen: ideas and tips
An outdoor kitchen is unthinkable without extra cabinets to store all the grill tools and utensils. Why go to the house if you have an outdoor kitchen? And with a great view and fresh air!
The outdoor kitchen will also benefit from an additional side stove, where you can not only make coffee, tea or hot chocolate, but also pepper steak sauce or a side dish for your fish.
Don't forget the plants. Greenery always brightens up the environment.
Take care of lighting. In the late summer evenings, bulbs add cosiness and in winter it's great to see what you're cooking.
Outdoor kitchen in a Lithuanian climate
When it comes to outdoor kitchens, gas barbecues are the predominant choice abroad. In Lithuania, the situation is slightly different - there are many grillers who are unreasonably hesitant to use a gas grill in winter.
In many parts of the world, gas grills are confidently used outdoors during the cold season. Made of quality materials, the grill, like other outdoor kitchen furniture, can withstand cold or rain. The most essential accessory for an outdoor barbecue is A cover. It will definitely prolong the life of your grill and keep it looking its best.
It is true that wind can cause some damage. But not to the grill itself, but to the food. The stronger the wind, the more fuel (especially charcoal) you will use. It will be particularly difficult to cook a larger piece, which usually has to be cooked in the long, slower cooking method. For this reason, it is recommended that the outdoor kitchen be located in a shelter.
An outdoor kitchen can also have a canopy. This is useful both for grilling in the rain and for protecting cabinets, an extra stove or other kitchen components from all weather conditions.
Grilling in an outdoor kitchen can be not only fun but also convenient. Take your hobby to a whole new level!
*If you are interested in outdoor kitchen furniture, we can order from the Napoleon range.
Do you have a gas grill and like smoked fish or meat? Click here for some smoking tricks.
