Imagine the smoky aroma of perfectly grilled steak, the sizzle of chorizo, and the joyous clinking of glasses around a crackling fire. This is the heart of Argentinian grilling, a tradition that’s more than just cooking – it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness.
But if you’re looking to bring this experience into your own backyard, you might feel a little lost. So many grills look alike, and it’s tough to know which one will truly capture that authentic Argentinian taste. You want a grill that’s easy to use, cooks food beautifully, and lasts for years, without breaking the bank.
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you cut through the confusion. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for in an Argentinian grill. We’ll explore the features that make these grills so special, what makes them different from other grills, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to fire up your grill and impress your friends and family with incredible Argentinian-style meals!
Our Top 5 Argentinian Grill Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Argentinian Grill Detailed Reviews
1. Backyard Discovery Argentine Santa Maria Wood Fire & Charcoal BBQ Grill with Brasero
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to bring the authentic taste of Argentine Gaucho grilling to your own backyard with the Backyard Discovery Argentine Santa Maria BBQ Grill. This grill isn’t just about cooking; it’s about an experience. Imagine the rich, smoky flavor infusing your meats as you cook them over an open fire, just like the pros. It’s designed for serious grillers who appreciate tradition and want top-notch results.
What We Like:
- The 723 square inch grilling surface gives you plenty of room for all your favorite foods.
- The adjustable grill grates let you control the heat perfectly for searing steaks or slow-roasting a whole chicken.
- The built-in brasero adds a special smoky flavor that you can’t get from other grills.
- Heavy-duty stainless steel and powder-coated steel construction mean this grill is built to last.
- The fire bricks and insulated walls keep the heat steady for consistent cooking.
- Included S-hooks make it easy to hang meat for slow, vertical grilling.
- The acacia wood table is a handy spot for your prep work and looks great.
- It comes with a coal shovel and a protective cover to keep it safe.
- Assembly is made easier with pre-fabricated parts and the BILT app.
- The 5-year warranty offers great peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While assembly is guided, it still requires some effort.
- The initial cost might be an investment for some backyard chefs.
This grill offers a truly authentic and high-quality grilling experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game.
2. Generic Santa Maria Grill Built in BBQ Cooking Grill -Argentine Barbecue V grate adjustable height- 36 inch by 24 inch
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for amazing backyard barbecues with the Generic Santa Maria Grill Built-in BBQ. This Argentine-style grill brings authentic flavor to your cooking. Its V-grate design is perfect for capturing juices, and you can easily adjust the height for the perfect sear. The 36-inch by 24-inch cooking surface gives you plenty of room for all your favorite foods.
What We Like:
- The high-quality stainless steel V-grate is super durable.
- You can adjust the grill height, which helps you cook everything just right.
- It’s a built-in grill, so it looks great in your outdoor kitchen.
- The Argentine barbecue style means delicious, smoky flavor.
- The 36×24 inch cooking area is big enough for family gatherings.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly might take a bit of time.
- The instructions could be clearer for some users.
- It’s a large item, so make sure you have space for it.
This grill is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to cook outdoors and wants that authentic Argentine taste. It’s built to last and will be the centerpiece of many great meals.
3. TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for some serious backyard grilling with the TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill. This isn’t just any grill; it’s an Argentine-style open fire grill that brings a whole new level of flavor to your cooking. Imagine the smoky taste of wood and coal infusing your steaks, tri-tips, and more. It’s designed for that authentic, rustic experience that makes BBQ truly special.
What We Like:
- Authentic Argentine Style: Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor from cooking over an open wood and coal fire, perfect for steaks and tri-tip.
- Precise Temperature Control: The easy-to-use flywheel lets you move the cooking grate up and down. This means you can sear meat quickly close to the flames or cook it low and slow by raising the grate.
- Versatile Cooking: It includes both a height-adjustable cooking grate and a cast iron skillet. You can cook a whole meal at once, from grilled items to skillet dishes.
- Built to Last: The grill is made from thick, powder-coated steel, ensuring it will be a backyard favorite for many years.
- Easy Ash Removal and Safe Handling: A convenient side door makes cleaning up ash simple. The cool-coil handles keep your hands safe while you cook.
- Dual Functionality: When you’re done grilling, simply remove the legs, and the grill transforms into a cozy fire pit for relaxing evenings.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly may require some effort.
- The cast iron skillet, while useful, might need initial seasoning.
This grill offers a fantastic way to elevate your outdoor cooking. It’s a durable, versatile, and fun addition to any backyard for both grilling enthusiasts and casual cooks.
4. Backyard Discovery Argentine Santa Maria XL Wood Fire & Charcoal Steel BBQ Grill with Asado Clamp
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to become the ultimate backyard chef with the Backyard Discovery Argentine Santa Maria XL Wood Fire & Charcoal Steel BBQ Grill. This grill brings the authentic taste of Gaucho grilling right to your home. Imagine cooking juicy meats over an open fire, just like they do in Argentina. This grill makes it easy to achieve that smoky, delicious flavor that everyone loves. It’s more than just a grill; it’s an experience for your taste buds.
What We Like:
- Authentic Argentine style grilling with a large 723 sq. in. cooking surface.
- A separate 480 sq. in. Asado clamp grill lets you cook more at once and rotate it easily.
- Grill grates move up and down from 2 to 24 inches, giving you total control over heat.
- Made from tough 304 stainless steel and heavy-duty powder-coated steel for lasting use.
- Built-in fire bricks and insulated walls keep the heat steady for perfect cooking.
- Includes handy S-hooks for slow-cooking and smoking different kinds of meat.
- Comes with a coal shovel and a waterproof cover to protect your grill.
- Easy to put together with pre-made parts and helpful instructions on the BILT app.
- Comes with a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Asado clamp grill, while useful, has a smaller cooking area than the main grate.
- Assembly, while guided, might still take some time for a single person.
This grill offers a fantastic way to enjoy outdoor cooking and impress your friends and family. It’s a durable and versatile addition to any backyard.
5. Hickory Summit Argentine Grill – Argentinian Grills – Santa Maria Grill – Argentinian Parrilla Set with all Tools Included – BBQ Parrillas Asado
Rating: 8.7/10
The Hickory Summit Argentine Grill is your ticket to authentic outdoor cooking. This grill set brings you back to the roots of barbecue, giving you everything you need to build a fire, manage coals, and cook delicious food in the open air. It’s designed for those who love the simple, satisfying process of traditional grilling.
What We Like:
- This grill lets you cook in different styles like Argentine, Santa Maria, and Tuscan.
- You get a flat top, shovel, coal pusher, and tongs with the kit.
- You can make coals in the included brazier or build a fire right under the grill.
- It’s made of raw steel for that old-school feel.
- Hickory Summit is a U.S. company that stands behind its products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The raw steel needs to be seasoned and kept dry to prevent rust.
- It’s important to store all the pieces indoors to protect them from moisture.
If you’re looking for a genuine grilling experience with all the essential tools, the Hickory Summit Argentine Grill is a fantastic choice. It’s built for tradition and built to last.
Your Guide to the Perfect Argentinian Grill
Are you ready to bring the smoky, delicious flavors of Argentina to your backyard? An Argentinian grill, also known as a parrilla, is your ticket to outdoor cooking mastery. These grills are designed for slow, even cooking over open flames, perfect for everything from juicy steaks to whole chickens.
Key Features to Look For
Adjustable Grate Height:
This is super important! A good Argentinian grill lets you raise and lower the cooking grate. This control helps you manage the heat. You can move food closer to the coals for a quick sear or higher to cook it gently. This feature gives you amazing control over your cooking.
Built-in Ash Catcher/Drawer:
Cleaning up is easier with a built-in ash catcher. It holds the hot ashes, making it simple to remove them after you’re done grilling. This saves you a lot of mess and hassle.
Side Brasero (Coal Box):
Some grills have a separate firebox, called a brasero. This is where you build your fire. The hot coals then slide onto the main grill. This method creates a more even heat and prevents flare-ups from dripping fat. It’s a classic Argentinian way to grill.
V-Grate or Rod Grates:
V-grates are common. They have a V-shape that channels fat away from the fire. This reduces flare-ups and keeps your food moist. Simple rod grates work well too. They let heat pass through easily and give you nice grill marks.
Important Materials
Stainless Steel:
Many high-quality Argentinian grills use stainless steel. It’s strong, lasts a long time, and doesn’t rust easily. Stainless steel grates are easy to clean. The whole grill body made of stainless steel looks great and holds up well outdoors.
Cast Iron:
Cast iron grates are excellent for heat retention. They get very hot and stay hot, which is great for searing meat. Cast iron can also develop a natural non-stick surface over time. It needs a little more care to prevent rust.
Brick or Stone Construction:
Some traditional Argentinian grills are built with bricks or stones. This materials absorb and radiate heat very well. These grills often have a more permanent feel and can be very efficient. They create a wonderful, authentic grilling experience.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality:
Look for sturdy construction. Welds should be strong. The metal should feel thick and durable. A well-built grill will last for many years. Flimsy parts or thin metal suggest lower quality and may not withstand high heat or outdoor elements.
Ease of Cleaning:
A grill that’s easy to clean makes you want to use it more. Removable grates and ash pans are a big plus. Surfaces that are smooth and easy to wipe down are also great. Grills with too many nooks and crannies can be a pain to keep clean.
Heat Distribution:
The best grills heat evenly across the entire cooking surface. This means your food cooks at the same rate everywhere. Poor heat distribution leads to hot spots where food burns and cooler spots where it doesn’t cook properly. The design of the grill and the materials used greatly impact this.
User Experience and Use Cases
Versatility:
Argentinian grills are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for cooking thick cuts of steak, like flank steak or ribeye. But they also work wonders for chicken, pork, fish, and even vegetables. You can slow-cook larger items or quickly grill smaller ones. The adjustable grate is key to this versatility.
Social Gatherings:
These grills are fantastic for parties and family get-togethers. They cook food slowly and evenly, allowing you to tend to your guests while the food cooks. The open-fire cooking style creates a wonderful atmosphere. Everyone loves gathering around a grill.
Flavor:
The magic of an Argentinian grill is the flavor. Cooking over charcoal or wood imparts a unique smoky taste that you can’t get from other grills. The slow cooking process also allows fats to render, making meats incredibly tender and juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between an Argentinian grill and a regular BBQ?
A: Argentinian grills often have an adjustable grate and sometimes a separate firebox (brasero). This gives you more control over heat and cooking style. Regular BBQs might have a lid and fixed grates.
Q: Can I use wood in an Argentinian grill?
A: Yes! Many people love using wood chunks or logs in their Argentinian grill. Wood adds an extra layer of smoky flavor to the food. Just make sure your grill can handle the heat from wood.
Q: How do I clean my Argentinian grill?
A: After the grill cools, brush the grates clean. Remove any ash from the ash catcher. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. For stainless steel, a mild cleaner works well.
Q: What kind of food is best for an Argentinian grill?
A: Thick steaks are a classic choice! But you can also grill chicken, pork, fish, sausages, and vegetables. Don’t forget to try grilled corn or peppers.
Q: Do I need a special type of charcoal?
A: Regular lump charcoal works great. Some people prefer using wood like hardwood chunks for added flavor. Avoid charcoal briquettes with lighter fluid, as they can affect the taste of your food.
Q: How much space do I need for an Argentinian grill?
A: Check the grill’s dimensions. You’ll need space around the grill for safe operation and for moving around it. Ensure there’s good ventilation and no flammable materials nearby.
Q: Are Argentinian grills difficult to assemble?
A: Most come with instructions. Some are very simple, while others might take a bit longer. It’s helpful to have a second person assist with larger parts.
Q: Can I leave my Argentinian grill outside all year round?
A: It depends on the materials. Stainless steel grills can handle it well. If your grill has cast iron parts or a less durable finish, a grill cover or storing it in a shed during harsh weather is a good idea.
Q: What is a “brasero”?
A: A brasero is a separate firebox on some Argentinian grills. You build your fire there, and the hot coals are then moved under the cooking grate. It helps create a more controlled heat.
Q: Where can I buy an Argentinian grill?
A: You can find them online at many home goods stores, specialty grilling retailers, and directly from manufacturers. Some local hardware or outdoor living stores may also carry them.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.