We all have fond memories of great barbecues. It is hard to say no when one of our friends or a family member invites us to a barbecue. The thought of the food on the grill with the smoky aroma all around is admittedly hard to resist. The barbecue has been a traditional get together meal for decades and it will be here for many more.

There are many different methods for cooking a great barbecue meal. Some prefer to use a dry rub seasoning on the meat while grilling, others like to marinate the meat for a day or so before cooking it, some people enjoy adding wood chips to the grill for added smoke flavor, and some just like their food smothered in lots of barbecue sauce.

Traditional barbecue sauce is a blend of tomato sauce and vinegar. You can use ketchup in place of those two items. If you like, cider can be used either in place of or in addition to the vinegar. Then, the creativity really kicks in, flavors and spices are added to give each sauce its own distinctive taste.

For sweet barbecue sauces, brown sugar or honey are usually added. You can also use fruit or jelly to sweeten a sauce. To make it spicy, you can add any type of pepper or hot sauce that you like, cayenne will give it a milder flavor while you can really spice it up with something like Habanero sauce. Any combination of herbs and seasoning can be used in your barbecue sauce, garlic and onion powder are very common but for added flavor you can also use something like fresh cilantro. Another ingredient that is often put into a good barbecue sauce is smoke flavoring. This can be used in place of wood chips in the grill. Mustard is also used in the making of several barbecue recipes.

Marinades are also very popular. Try out several different methods with this as well. A good marinade can either be made by adding water to one of your barbecue sauce masterpieces or creating something entirely new. Try a soy sauce, brown sugar and sesame for something different. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Then, you just soak your meat in it overnight in the refrigerator to let it really soak in the flavors.

The key to making the perfect barbecue sauce is to make it the way you would like it to taste. Add any ingredients you like, switch them up and use a lot of variety. Try new things especially if you have a few favorite herbs or flavor preferences.

Customers have reviewed the best gas grills from several manufacturers. This is a list of the top 10 based on those reviews.

Weber

Customers voted the Weber 2005 Model 841001 22 1/2-Inch Performer Charcoal Grill With a Touch and Go Propane Ignition the best Weber gas grill in 2009. Priced at under $400 This is a premium hybrid kettle style charcoal grill with a propane gas ignition to make starting your charcoal an easy task. It is rust resistant and set in a sturdy stand. Get the flavor of charcoal with the ease of gas. * Charcoal grill with gas-ignition system; briquettes ignite with the push of a button * 22-1/2-inch-diameter cooking area; hinged, heavy-duty cooking grate * Heavy-duty steel construction; porcelain-enamel, rust-resistant coating * Dual-purpose thermometer; crack-proof, lockable wheels; charcoal storage container * Measures 50-1/4 by 40 by 28-1/2 inches assembled

Click Here to see details and reviews about this Weber Performer Charcoal Grill

Char Broil

The top in customer reviews for the best Char Broil Gas Grill in 2009 is the Char-Broil M500 Quantum 3-Burner Infrared Gas Grill. This is a quality infrared grill for high heat grilling. It takes the flare up out of your grilling for perfectly grilled food. Each of the burners on the Char-Broil M500 Quantum has it's own individual setting knob so you can cook at different temperatures on the same grill. The Char-Broil M500 Quantum is priced for under $700 * Three primary burners, rated up to 31,000 BTUs to heat the award winning and super-efficient Quantum Infrared grates * 13,000 BTU flush lid side burner * 500 square inches of primary cooking area and 280 square inch warming rack * "Surefire" Electronic ignition * Dual Fuel convertible to Natural Gas with the purchase of conversion kit.

Click to see Reviews for the Char-Broil M500 Quantum 3-Burner Infrared Gas Grill

Coleman

The Coleman Special Edition Road Trip Grill LXE comes in with a 4.5 star rating this year from it's customers reviews. The Coleman Special Edition Road Trip Grill LXE is a sturdy travel Gas BBQ grill that compresses to a lightweight and compact size for easy carrying. The wheels make it easy to maneuver when it is set up. This is the perfect tailgate grill. This grill currently has a low price tag of under $200 for 2009. * Collapsible propane grill ideal for tailgating at sporting events and picnics * Pair of fully adjustable 20,000 BTU burners with porcelain-coated cast-iron grates * Supports mix-and-match cooking surfaces, including grill, griddle, and stove * X-shaped chassis collapses in seconds for transport; built-in side tables and tool holders * Requires 16.4-ounce propane cylinder; measures 22 x 36 x 13 inches (W x H x D); 5-year warranty.

Click Here To See Info For The Coleman Special Edition Road Trip Grill LXE

Ducane

The Best Ducane gas grill according to 2009 customer reviews is the Ducane Affinity 4100 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill 30741101. This is a full sized outdoor gas grill priced for under $500. It has a clean sleek look with stainless steel burners, lid and doors. The cart is fully enclosed for keeping things stored in a clean and organized manner. * Outdoor gas grill with 3 stainless steel burners with flush-mounted side burner * 36,000 BTUs for large gatherings; 418-square-inch main cooking area * 550 square inches of total cooking area; 132-square-inch warming rack * Electronic ignition and lid thermometer; lid thermometer for easy monitoring * Stainless steel wire cooking grates for durability and easy cleaning 

Click Here To See More Details For The Ducane Affinity 4100 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Lynx

The top voted Lynx Gas Grill is a beauty to behold. The Lynx 30 Inch Propane Gas Grill On Cart With Rotisserie L30FR-1-LP Has full 5 star rating and it is easy to see why. This is a top of the line grill made completely of welded stainless steel. The The Lynx 30 Inch Propane Gas Grill has bees stated to be by far the best gas grill on the market in 2009. If you want the best you can get, this is it. This grill is currently priced at under $5000. * built in interior hood light * Two grill burners produce a total of 50,000 BTUs * 600 sq. inches of grilling area * 9v electric ignition * Two-piece grates for easy cleaning * Two position rotiss with heavy-duty motor and infrared burner.

Click here for more info on the Lynx Lynx 30 Inch Propane Gas Grill On Cart With Rotisserie

DCS

The DCS 30 Inch Natural Gas Grill had the top customer reviews in the DCS line of gas grills for 2009. This is a full sized outdoor kitchen quality stainless steel natural gas BBQ grill. This grill comes at a very reasonable price for this type of grill for less than $3000. The DCS 30 Inch Natural Gas Grill has an infrared burner and a heavy duty rotis motor for great rotisserie cooking. It comes on a fully enclosed stainless cart with easy rolling wheels. Product Description This DCS Gas Grill features 575 square inches of main grilling area, (2) 25,000 BTU stainless steel burners, 14,000 BTU infrared rear burner, stainless steel grilling grates, heavy duty rotis motor (holds up to 50 lbs. ) w/ Smart Beam grill light, 9-volt battery ignition and removable stainless steel warming rack. Cart features Condiment shelf in LP access door, (1) fold down side shelf (Side shelf can be used as serving tray), (2) Locking swivel casters, (2) 8 inch wheels with stainless steel hubcaps. Cooking Area Dimensions: 19. 5 D x 24. 25 W.

Click here to see the information and great customer reviews for the DCS 30 Inch Natural Gas Grill.

Solaire

The top rated solaire gas grill in 2009 is the Solaire Anywhere Portable Infrared Gas Grill – 304 Grade Stainless Steel. This grill offers you the cooking quality of infrared heat with the convenience of portability. You would be hard pressed to find a better portable gas grill anywhere. The exterior of this grill is made of high quality stainless steel. The performance of this grill is unsurpassed by any other portable gas grill. The Solaire Anywhere Portable Infrared Gas Grill is worth every penny at under $400. * Portable Stainless Gas Grill * 14,000 BTU Infrared burner * Push button ignition * 1 lb. Propane container, and comes with vinyl bag with three outside pockets. * 304 grade stainless construction.

Click Here to see all the information and reviews for the Solaire Anywhere Portable Infrared Gas Grill.

O-Grill

This light weight O-Grill 3000 Portable Gas Barbecue Grill comes with a 5 star rating in 2009. It is small and compact enough to be easily taken anywhere. It has a handle and retractable legs to make carrying it super easy. It folds up into its clam shell shaped casing and only weighs 24 lbs. so it can be toted along where ever you go. You can have this perfect beach party and tailgating grill for under $200.

Click here to see the rave reviews for the O-Grill 3000 Portable Gas Barbecue Grill

Masterbuilt

Customers said the 2009 Top gas grill for Masterbuilt is the Masterbuilt 7 In 1 Smoker And Grill. This is a compact multifunctional gas grill and smoker for a bargain at under $200. It is perfect for grilling or smoking the catch of the day. It is easy to assemble and has an easy to maintain temperature control for perfectly smoked food every time. * Origin: USA * Height: 19-in. * Width: 18-in. * Depth: 18-in. * Special Features: Includes:10.5-qt. pot, basket and thermometer.

Click Here tp see what customers said about the Masterbuilt 7 In 1 Smoker And Grill

Char-Griller

The Char-Griller 3001 Grillin' Pro 40,800-BTU Gas Grill is voted #1 in the Char Griller line of BBQ grills by it's customers. The cost of this grill is less than $300 in 2009. The Char-Griller 3001 Grillin' Pro gas grill has a 438 square inch grilling area as well as a side burner. It is made from procelain coated heavy duty steel to resist rusting. * 40,800-BTU gas grill with 438-square-inch main grilling area * 192-square-inch warming rack; 12,000-BTU side burner * Durable steel construction; side shelf for handy workspace * Electronic ignition; porcelain-coated cast-iron grates; utensil hooks * Measures 50 by 25 by 42 inches; 1-year limited warranty.

Click here to see more on the Char-Griller 3001 Grillin' Pro Gas Grill

The Lynx BBQ Grill ranks right up there at the top in the hierarchy of barbecues. The Lynx Gas BBQ Grill truly is the best grill you can get in 2009.

They are made to last a lifetime. Lynx is committed to only the best quality in it’s products. Every Lynx grill is designed to not only last but to also cook all your barbecue to absolute perfection. The exterior of the Lynx BBQ grill is made entirely from the best quality stainless steel construction. The construction of the grill is a solid one piece arc welded unit for strength and durability. It is very easy to ignite with it’s water proof integrated ignition. The ignition also comes with a battery back up. One of the best features of this grill is the ceramic briquettes that are designed for perfect heat distribution. Every Lynx BBQ grill offers this exact style and durability no matter which model you choose. The only thing you have to decide is which of the 5 sizes you want. Every grill comes with either a two or three brass burner selection, a full control temperature gauge, A surface light for the grill, an easy open lid assembly, and stainless steel grates for easy grilling and cleaning. The Lynx BBQ grill also comes with a removable smoker box which makes it multi-functional. You won’t find a better barbecue grill than the Lynx anywhere.

Lynx 30 Inch Professional Freestanding Gas Grill with Rotisserie

25 Top Gas Grills Compared

Too often, consumers seeking a high end stainless steel gas grill are won by a manufacturer’s reputation, the look of the grill or to other factors such as recommendations from friends or family. Now, this is a fairly large investment, as appliances go, and consult an expert in the field could help in making an informed decision. A reliable gas grill specialist can help you evaluate the different characteristics found in these high-end grills and quid you the best choice for the features you prefer.

The simplest way to compare the manufacturers objectively, of course, is with a graph! Our chart compares Fire Magic, Alfresco, Kenmore Elite, Viking, DCS, Dacor, Lynx, Vintage, Weber Summit Gold D, Wolf, Altima, Turbo, ProFire, Phoenix, Tec, Solaire Infrared, Vieluxe, Lazy Man, Jenn Air, Holland , FrontGate, Capitol, Crown Verity, Ducan and Dynasty.

Some of the features in the table are:

* BTU Output: How many burners, and how many BTUs are standard?
You need to do some calculations to determine the real heat will receive their food. Ideally, you want to have over 95 BTU’s per square inch of cooking surface. How do you know? Take your total BTU’s and divide it by first cooking surface. So …. if your cooking surface is 660 square inches and the total BTU’s are BTU’s 104,000, then 104,000 divided by 660 square inches = 157 BTU’s per square inch. That would be a winner!

* Temperature range: This is a very important feature, if you like to do a variety of cuisine. You will be able to do everything from searing steaks to grill pizza with a
wide range of temperatures.

* Materials Burner can be cast stainless steel plate stainless steel, cast iron, infra-red and even cast brass, which is used in commercial settings. Dual burners allow for indirect cooking and better heat control. Cast brass or cast stainless burners are your best bet. They will last longer and are more durable. The fat tends to burn through sheet metal easily.

* Infra-red burners are an option for those seeking a well seared steak. Thinking of an infra-red cooking system? Temperatures in a system of infra-red cooking can reach up to 1600 degrees in some bars. Infra-red cooking allows for quick, high temperatures, which reduces cooking time and helps seal in juices – perfect for searing a steak. If food or blackened steaks are your taste preference – infra-red cooking is the way to go. If you plan on conventional cooking – go with a hybrid that offers infra-red burners and pattern. Tip – make sure you can convert infra-red burners back to standard for large parties.

* Rotisserie backburners are a popular option. Used to cook large pieces of meat evenly, Rotisserie use a much less heat than normal grilling. BTU ranges generally range in 13-15000 class but the best offer grills 18-28000 BTUs. Rotisserie cooked with meat are usually juice, self-basted and slow roasted. Tip – look for a model with a drip tray to make cleaning easier. Be sure to compare Rotisserie available space, especially if you want to roast a turkey or two.

* A Triple Gourmet Grill lets you use gas, infra-red and charcoal for cooking! How versatile can you get!

* A smoker box Adjustable is ideal for those who appreciate the added taste of Hickory, mesquite and other woods for its meat. It makes smoking easy. Adjustable vents allow you to control the amount of smoke flavor to provide just the right taste.

See the top selling gas grills here…

To compare reviews and ratings.

BARBECUED COUNTRY RIBS

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup. Brown Sugar
1 tbs. Salt
1 tbs. Celery Seed
1 tbs. Chili Powder
1 tsp. Paprika
1/4 cup. Vinegar
1 cup. Ketchup
1/4 cup. Honey
2 tbs. Hot Sauce

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine all of the ingredients into a mixing bowl stir together until mixture is well blended and set to the side..

Country rib preparation:

Trim the fat from the ribs and cut them into serving size pieces. seasoning with salt,pepper and garlic. Place on the broiler and broil 15 to 20 minutes turning each side to remove as much of the excess fat as you can and until meat has browned. Apply the sauce over all, continue basting with the sauce until ready to serve.

3 lbs. boned loin pork in 1 piece
1/2 c. soy sauce
4 tbsp. cider vinegar
2 tbsp. oil
3 tbsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 cup packed brown suger
1 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. oregano flakes or fresh chopped
1 tsp. chopped onion

1. Split meat lengthwise to half thickness, combine all the ingredients in shallow bowl mix well untill sugar has dissolved. Add meat, marinate covered 4 hours turning occasionally for equl coverage. 2. Remove and drain meat and place it in shallow roasting pan. Roast at 350 degrees for 1-1/2 hours basting with remainning marinate occasionally. Remove from pan and cool. To serve cut pork in diagonal thin slices and place on a serving plate, Serve with toothpicks and Chinese mustard. or for freeze wrap in plastic wrap and foil for cold sorage or freezing for later use.

barbecue chicken

BBQ CHICKEN WINGS MARINADE

Ingredients

1/2 cup.      white vinegar
1/2 cup.      soy sauce
1/2 cup.      sugar
1   tbs.        crushed red Pepper
3/4 tsp.       granulated garlic
2   tbs.        ketchup

INSTRUCTIONS

Using a two quart sauce pot add all the ingredients into the pan, cook on medium
heat for 30 minutes then remove from the stove for 15 minutes.  Now taking
20-40 pieces of chicken wings in a large container to hold chicken, add the
marinade then mix and let sit for 15 minutes now you can grill, or bake this
at 350 for 25 minutes..after barbecuing, drizzle the marinade on the
chicken before serving and garnish with chopped green onions sprinkled on top.