On May 10, 11:09 am, markm75 > wrote:
> I know this has been discussed to death in other parts.. but I'm
> wondering if this status has changed much in recent days...
>
> I'm still assuming I'll get the best flavor (charcoal flavor) with
> things like burgers and hot dogs on a purely charcoal grill...
>
> But now there are things like charcoal flavored devices that you can
> use on a gas grill (sorry I dont know much about these).. I've read
> the lava rocks arent always so great (they work from the fat dripping
> on them then the scent rising up through the food?)..
>
> So i'm faced with the decision of going gas or charcoal and getting a
> bigger (higher up vertically) type grill...
>
> Gas is clearly cheaper to use and faster to get going and less fuss,
> can i use any types of these flavor devices to at least come somewhat
> closer to the nice taste of a charcoal grill?
>
> I've also heard good things about cooking steaks on a gas grill using
> mesquite marinades and flavor bars etc...
>
> Either way i've seen decent size charcoal and gas grills for the same
> price, currently about $150 for the size/type i want...

As someone who's eyes have recently been opened, Go with a charcoal
Weber Kettle and get a Weber Performer if you can. The weber performer
has a propane starter and a neat way to discard the ashes. Next get
lump charcoal. I've been using a gas grill for decades and it is so
amazing to have new reasons to enjoy things like Ribeye steaks,
Heberew nationals, burgers, fish, eggplant,etc.. The flavor is amazing
and the "juicyness" that is retained from a charcoal BBQ is amazingly
better. I am still discovering the different smoking methods but so
far I like Pecan wood and Applewood along with my Mesquite or oak lump
Charcoal. Its my new opinion that Gas grills no matter what type of
propoganda "flavor-enhancers" do really nothing to the taste.

Joe