On 3 Jul 2004 06:26:05 -0700, Jeff wrote:

As family and friends gather on decks and patios this holiday weekend
to eat grilled burgers and chicken, a debate may erupt - not about
politics or sports, but charcoal vs. gas.

"In order to accomplish the true, authentic barbecue smoke flavor,
you have to use a charcoal grill," says Steven Raichlen, author of
'The Barbecue! Bible' and other grilling cookbooks.

On 3 Jul 2004 06:26:05 -0700, Jeff wrote:

As family and friends gather on decks and patios this holiday weekend
to eat grilled burgers and chicken, a debate may erupt - not about
politics or sports, but charcoal vs. gas.

"In order to accomplish the true, authentic barbecue smoke flavor,
you have to use a charcoal grill," says Steven Raichlen, author of
'The Barbecue! Bible' and other grilling cookbooks.

People I know who cook in their backyards in the summer are more
interested in things other than whether their grilling meets up to
anyone else's standards of authenticity.

I've never heard such a debate or complaints from guests. I have a
charcoal grill myself, but I do appreciate the offerings from a gas
grill. If I had a gas grill I'd surely grill more often because of
the convenience.

It's my impression that people who write BBQ cookbooks and/or who have
the setup for serious BBQ are the ones worried about authenticity.

The rest of us don't care. It's not that we couldn't appreciate it;
it's just not a priority. :

Sue(tm)
Lead me not into temptation... I can find it myself!