When you look at these two grills, you will not notice a difference between porcelain coated cast iron vs stainless steel grill. However, in case you wish to do some serious grilling process, it is much better solution to learn what each material will bring you in general.
If you wish to choose the best grill possible, you’re probably asking yourself whether stainless steel grill is better than porcelain-coated cast-iron one. Everything depends on three critical factors, such as performance, placement, and price.
Performance
Grilling process requires understanding how to do it efficiently. However, performance can mean numerous things to different people. Everything depends on what you wish to achieve with the grill that you want to get. For instance, is the appearance important as well as the amount of heat that produces during the cooking process, because these characteristics will affect the result you will get afterward?
At the same time, you should ask yourself whether you wish your grill to last, and how often you should maintain it and clean it after the process. Have in mind that most grill bodies come from sheet metal, cast aluminum, stainless steel or cast iron. Therefore, you have to be careful, because every single type features subcategories as well as different grades of metal that you should consider. If you wish to get a grill that will provide you combination of performance and durability, you should find the one that features stainless steel frame and body. At the same time, you should check the stainless steel parts inside, because even if it comes from it, you can get a lousy grade of metal that will not stand the test of time.
Placement
Placement is also vital because some grills cannot withstand the elements while others can, which also depends on the material you decide to choose. In case you wish to keep your grill protected, you can consider a few options based on your needs. The rule states that high-end barbecue features cast iron, steel, or combination of both. These grills are simple to maintain, and you will get durable pieces that you can use for years after purchase.
Things to Know About Cast Iron Grills
Cast iron is an excellent material because it tends to retain a large amount of heat. Of course, when compared with stainless steel it is corrosive, which is the main reason why they are coated with enamel or porcelain.
These coatings will help you ensure that it does not rust due to elements and weather, and that will eliminate the need for curing the metal. At the same time, it will provide you faster and easier cleanup than other types.
Even though you will not notice the specific sizzling sound, the meat makes when it gets on the grill, you will not get sear marks as well. The porcelain is prone to chips and cracks, especially if you mishandle the grates or drop it to patio.
These chips and cracks will affect its efficiency and ability to retain heat, and that may cause it to rust from the inside.
If you get bare or non-coated cast iron, you will be able to get a grill that will withstand severe heat and stick resistance, but with short durability due to inability to handle weather elements.
What are the Pros of Cast Iron Grills?
- The best thing about it is that it can retain heat for an extended period
- It can last a long time, but it is not durable as steel alternative
- You can use it both inside and outside, but for outside use, be ready to choose porcelain coating for additional durability
What are the Cons of Cast Iron Grills?
- It can destroy and rust over time
- You will need more time to clean it in general
- You have to regularly maintain it so that you can avoid issues
Things You Should Know About Stainless Steel Grills
When it comes to cooking with stainless steel, it is essential to remember that you will not be able to get the same heat as with cast iron, but the heat retention is something that will prove useful in a long run.
Since stainless steel comes from resilient and durable materials, it can withstand harsh weather such as salt, rain, wind, and sun.
Even though the stainless steel will provide you perfect appearance of meat with darken marks, this is standard consideration that you can avoid in case that you wipe it with a grill brush and remove the excessive moist.
At the same time, you do not have to clean it up frequently as a cast-iron counterpart, and you do not have to add additional oil to it. Therefore, we can say that is much more convenient when it comes to maintenance than cast iron.
Have in mind that cooking surfaces tend to be larger than a cast iron grill and that is because it can retain enough heat to efficiently cook/sear the food so that you can accommodate large batches for your friends and family.
If you wish to find low maintenance, long-lasting and high-performance grill that will stand the test of time, you should consider stainless steel one.
What are the Pros of Stainless Steel Grills?
- You do not have to clean it as a cast iron grill, which will help you along the way.
- It won’t get hot as cast iron, but it tends to retain the heat much better
- Simple to clean and maintain
- Exceptional durability that will stand the test of time
What are the Cons of Stainless Steel Grills?
- It may get dark over time, but do not worry, because that will not affect the taste and cooking process.
Conclusion
In general, the choice that you make depends on what you wish to get as well as the weather that happens in your area. Therefore, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of porcelain coated cast iron vs stainless steel grill so that you can determine which one is the best for your particular needs.
Think about performance and placement because that will also affect the durability of the grill that you choose. Besides, you should understand that more you research the better choice you will make.
