Functioning of Infrared Grills

Home Improvement

What is the recommended preheating time for an infrared grill to kill bacteria?

The suitable temperature for steak is 145 degrees Fahrenheit (62 degrees Celsius), which comes under the medium-rare to medium range of doneness, identified by a pink (not red) center.
Annabelle Breakey/Photodisc/Getty Images

Conventional gas grills require approximately 10 minutes to preheat, and charcoal grills require about 20 minutes for the briquettes to attain optimal cooking temperature. However, infrared grills can reach peak temperatures within three to five minutes [source: Hunter].

The high temperatures of infrared grills reduce the cooking time of proteins by almost half in comparison to their cooking time on conventional gas or charcoal grill grates. The outcome is a medium-rare steak in approximately five minutes or a fully cooked chicken breast in approximately 10 minutes.

To prevent food-borne diseases, grilled proteins must be cooked to the correct internal temperature. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the suggested temperatures include:

• Whole poultry: 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius)
• Ground poultry: 165 degrees Fahrenheit (73 degrees Celsius)
• Pork, ground veal and ground beef: 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius)
• Pork or beef roast, beef or lamb chops and steaks: 145 degrees Fahrenheit (62 degrees Celsius)

“The best way to measure the internal temperatures of foods on an infrared grill is using a thermometer,” said Richard Wachtel, the founder of Grilling with Rich, an online magazine that specializes in educating competitive grillers. As of 2011, you could purchase a probe-style digital thermometer for less than $20 in most places where cooking equipment is sold.

Even with a thermometer to measure food temperatures and a home library stocked with cookbooks, learning how to create culinary masterpieces on an infrared grill takes practice. Since infrared surfaces heat to between two and three times the temperature of traditional grills, foods can burn much more quickly than expected. While it may take five minutes to sear a 2-inch-thick tenderloin, for example, grilled asparagus requires only a minute or two. Watch food carefully the first time you try cooking it on an infrared grill.

For some people, however, the actual challenge starts when the grill’s work is finished. After spending hundreds or possibly thousands of dollars on an infrared grill, caring for it reaches a whole new level of importance. On the next page, we’ll share some tips for maintaining your infrared grill.

FAQ

1. What is an infrared grill?

An infrared grill is a type of grill that uses infrared technology to cook food. Instead of relying on traditional convection heat, infrared grills use a radiant heat source that heats up a ceramic plate or burner. This heat is then transferred directly to the food, resulting in faster and more efficient cooking.

2. How does an infrared grill differ from a traditional grill?

Infrared grills differ from traditional grills in that they use a different type of heat source. While traditional grills rely on convection heat, which circulates hot air around the food, infrared grills use radiant heat, which heats up a ceramic plate or burner and transfers the heat directly to the food. This results in faster, more efficient cooking and can help prevent flare-ups.

3. What are the advantages of using an infrared grill?

One of the main advantages of using an infrared grill is that it cooks food faster and more evenly than traditional grills. Infrared grills also tend to produce less smoke and can help prevent flare-ups. Additionally, they are often more energy-efficient and can help save on fuel costs in the long run.

4. Are there any disadvantages to using an infrared grill?

One potential disadvantage of using an infrared grill is that they can be more expensive than traditional grills. Additionally, they may require more maintenance and cleaning, as the ceramic plates or burners can become clogged over time. Finally, some people may prefer the taste of food cooked on a traditional grill, as the radiant heat of an infrared grill can result in a slightly different flavor profile.

5. What types of food are best suited for cooking on an infrared grill?

Infrared grills are well-suited for cooking a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, and seafood. They are particularly good for cooking foods that require high heat, such as steaks, burgers, and kebabs. In general, any food that is well-suited for grilling will work well on an infrared grill.

6. How do you clean and maintain an infrared grill?

To clean an infrared grill, start by turning off the heat and allowing it to cool down completely. Then, remove the grates and any other removable components and scrub them with a grill brush or scraper. For the ceramic plates or burners, use a soft-bristle brush to remove any debris, and then wipe them down with a damp cloth. Finally, reassemble the grill and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. It is also important to periodically check the burners or ceramic plates for signs of wear or damage, and to replace them if necessary.

7. Are there any safety considerations when using an infrared grill?

As with any grill, it is important to exercise caution when using an infrared grill. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use, and never leave the grill unattended. Additionally, be sure to keep the grill away from flammable materials and to use caution when handling hot surfaces or hot food. Finally, be sure to turn off the grill and allow it to cool down completely before attempting to clean or perform any maintenance.