If you want to make your electric grill taste like charcoal, there are a few methods you can try. While it may not perfectly replicate the exact flavor of charcoal, these techniques can help enhance the taste of your food and provide a smoky flavor similar to what you would get from a charcoal grill. Here's how you can achieve it:
- Preheat the grill: Ensure the electric grill is preheated to a high temperature before you start cooking. This will help create a sear on the food, mimicking the characteristic charred marks of charcoal grilling.
- Use smoking chips: Soak wood chips (such as mesquite, hickory, or applewood) in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain them and place them in a smoker box or a foil packet with holes poked into it. Put this on the grill grates or near the heating element of your electric grill. It will release smoke, infusing your food with a smoky flavor.
- Add liquid smoke: Another option is to use liquid smoke, available in most grocery stores. Simply brush or spray it onto your food before or during grilling to give it a charred flavor.
- Use a cast iron skillet: Place a cast iron skillet on the grill grates while preheating the grill. Once hot, you can cook your food directly on the skillet. This will help recreate the intense heat and sear you would get from a charcoal grill.
- Optimize grilling techniques: To ensure a charred and smoky taste, keep the lid closed as much as possible while cooking. This will trap the heat and smoke around the food, enhancing the smoky flavor.
- Experiment with marinades and rubs: Marinating your food or applying dry rubs before grilling can add layers of flavor that can help compensate for the absence of charcoal taste. Look for recipes that have smoky or charred flavors to enhance the overall taste.
Remember, while these techniques can provide a smoky and charred taste on an electric grill, it may not be possible to truly replicate the exact taste of charcoal grilling. However, with experimentation and the right combination of ingredients, you can still enjoy delicious grilled dishes.
Best Electric Grills of December 2024
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Rating is 5 out of 5
Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared™ Electric Grill, Red – 20602109
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ELECTRIC GRILL: This grill is powered by electricity to give you the convenience of grilling without the hassle of gas or charcoal. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
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COOKING TECHNOLOGY: TRU-Infrared cooking technology prevents flare-ups, delivers even heat and cooks up to 50% juicier food. Heat is transferred from the coil to the grate and drippings are vaporized, sending the flavor back into your food.
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COOKING AREA: Grill up to 12 burgers, 6 chicken breasts or 4 steaks on 320-square-inches of total cooking space. Cook meats and larger items on the primary grates and use the warming rack to cook with indirect heat and keep food warm.
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CONTROL KNOB: The control knob powers the grill on and adjusts cooking temperatures. Turn clockwise to increase the heat and counterclockwise to decrease.
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GRATES: These steel grates are porcelain-coated to resist rust and make them easier to clean. They retain heat to cook food evenly and leave impressive grill marks.
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TEMP GAUGE: The lid-mounted temperature gauge displays accurate temps, so you always know the cooking temperature inside your grill.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
High Power 1800W Smokeless Non-Stick Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill With Stand, ManVi 15-Serving Removable BBQ Grill Electric Barbecue Grill Portable Camping Grill For Apartment, Patio,Balcony, Kitchen
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SMOKELESS INDOOR GRILL COOKING EXPERIENCE - The inside grill for kitchen smokeless provides a spacious cooking area that provides ample space for grilling a variety of foods. Our tabletop grill electric can easily prepare a feast without the need for multiple grilling sessions. You can easily customize your menu, experimenting with different combinations of meats, veggies, and seafood. This not only saves time and effort but also ensures that everyone can enjoy their hot and freshly grilled food together.
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HIGH-POWERED BBQ PORTABLE GRILL - Our electric grill outdoor with stand boasts a high 1800W power output that delivers rapid and consistent heat distribution. With its strong heating element, electric patio grill quickly reaches optimal cooking temperatures 350°C, ensuring deliciously grilled food every time. In addition, porch grill the adjustable ventilation port in the lid helps to quickly dissipate heat or reduce smoke buildup during grilling that creates a more pleasant grilling environment.
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ENJOYABLE AND HEALTHIER TRAVEL GRILL - As you grill, any oils or fats naturally released from the food will conveniently collect in the oil collection tray. Our plug in grill helps reduce the fat content in your meals that allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without the burden. The electric outside grill detachable oil drip tray and non-stick grill grates make the cleaning process a breeze and more time enjoying your delicious grilled food.
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EASY TO USE ELECTRIC OUTDOOR GRILLS STAND - Simply plug it into a power source, adjust the temperature, and you're ready to start grilling. Portable camping grills outdoor cooking grill compact size and portability make it easy to transport and set up wherever you go. From family gatherings and social events to RV trips and weekend getaways, it enhances the atmosphere and brings people together through the joy of grilling. Our electric barbeque grills eliminates the need for charcoal or propane, providing a hassle-free grilling experience.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/Non-Stick Cooking Surface & Adjustable Temperature Knob from Warm to Sear for Customized BBQing, Dishwasher Safe Removable Water Tray, Black
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GRILLED FLAVOR, LESS SMOKE: This grill produces less smoke than traditional indoor grills, so you can enjoy perfectly grilled food year-round without having to brave the cold weather. To achieve that perfectly smoke-free grilling indoors, the water tray must be filled with water between the minimum and maximum line. The water instantly cools the grease that falls on it, preventing it from sticking to the tray or from smoking.
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COOKING IN THE ZONE: The temperature on this grill varies by heat zone, so you can cook anything and everything just the way you like! With an extra-large cooking surface, you can cook multiple foods at the same time for a complete meal. Control knob goes from warm to sear, which allows for cooking a variety of food; grilled veggies, burgers, steak, chicken, fish and more!
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EASY TO CLEAN: Non-stick surface ensures meals will slide off the grill and onto your plate with ease. Disassembles for easy cleaning; grill top and non-stick water tray are removable and dishwasher safe so cleanup is as easy as grilling!
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SAFETY FEATURES: No dangerous fumes, cool-touch handles and overheat auto shut-off protection offer added safety so you can cook without worry, 1120 Watts and 120 Volts.
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
George Foreman, Silver, 12+ Servings Upto 15 Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill, GGR50B, REGULAR
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George Tough Nonstick Coating - There's a lot to love about this nonstick coating; it's durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil
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Indoor or Outdoor Removable Stand - Don't let the weather keep you from the glory of grilling; the easy-to-remove stand takes you from patio to countertop in no time
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Adjustable Temperature Control - The temperature probe lets you choose from five heat settings to get the best results on any kind of food
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Apartment-Approved - Your landlord will love this grill just as much as you do because the fully electric system gives you high-quality grilling with no charcoal, no propane, and no flare-ups
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, Removable Nonstick Grate, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, Stainless Steel
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Locks in juices and flavors:Adjustable temperature control ranges from 200° to Sear at 450 degrees to grill at lower heat for optimal grilling results
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Enjoy grilling all year long: This indoor grill with hood has a high searing heat that locks in juices and flavors, and lid closes to give you signature grill marks; Serves up to 6 with 118 square inch grilling surface
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Easy to clean: Indoor grill hood, plate, and extra-large drip tray are all removable and dishwasher safe
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Less mess: Extra-large drip tray catches juices so they don't spill on your counter and it's dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
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Power and preheat lights: Eliminate guesswork while using your electric grill
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Cooks more than steaks, BBQ and burgers: Grill chicken, fish, pizza, vegetables, fruit and more. Also great for Paleo and Keto diets.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Mueller HealthyBites Electric Griddle Nonstick, 20 Inch Eco Pancake Griddle Grill Teflon-free, 10 Eggs at Once, Cool-Touch Handles & Slide-Out Drip Tray, for Breakfast Pancakes, Burgers, Eggs
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Electric griddle: This awesome electric griddle nonstick extra large has a 1500 watt heating system, cool-touch base with a built in slide-out drip tray. Its removable probe enables precise temperature control for preparing steak, lamb chops, eggs, bread, vegetables, skewers, mushrooms, salmon, shrimp and anything your heart desires! Everything you need for a perfect breakfast, lunch or dinner, rain or shine!
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Premium Non-stick Cooking Surface – An easy removal makes adjusting the plate a piece of cake for your cooking needs. Because the Griddle electric features a non-stick cooking surface, food may be prepared with little or no oil. Meat or fish, it doesn’t stick and the Oil Drip Tray catches all the grease from cooking. Perfect for a low-fat diet!
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A Breeze To Clean – The smooth non-stick cooking plate makes cleaning effortless, and in most cases a simple wipe over with a sponge and dish soap is all it needs! The temperature probe and drip tray are removable so you can easily maneuver while cleaning.
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Smart Adjustable Temperature Control – Allows cooking at 5 different temperature settings, up to 430°F.
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Superior Quality With Mueller - We are here to offer you only the best quality products designed to make your life easier. If you need any help, please feel free to contact us. Our unparalleled 24/7 live telephone customer support is ready and waiting to assist with anything you need!
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
BELLA Electric Griddle with Crumb Tray - Smokeless Indoor Grill, Nonstick Surface, Adjustable Temperature Control Dial & Cool-touch Handles, 10" x 16", Black
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FAST & VERSATILE: Make 8 delicious pancakes or eggs at once with this griddle pan! The nonstick surface of our portable grill is 8 times more durable and cooks up to 30% faster than standard coatings, so you can prepare a big breakfast quickly and easily
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FAMILY SIZE: Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or a party with friends, this electric grill has you covered. The extra large surface makes it perfect for making multiple items at once. The cool-touch handles prevent from burning your hands
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CONVENIENT: With an adjustable temperature dial and removable probe, this stove top griddle has everything you need for precision control. The drip tray collects fat and juices for healthier cooking, while the warming tray keeps food warm until serving
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IDEAL FOR TRAVELS: The 1200W griddle grill heats up quickly without a long-time waiting. The designed detachable power cord makes it convenient for you to carry this ceramic griddle easily anywhere, even on camping and self-catering holidays or dorm
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Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Artestia Electric Grill Outdoor Smokeless 2 IN 1 BBQ Grills Temperature Control Portable Removable 1500W Stand Grill for Cooking, BBQ Party, Black
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1500W ELECTRIC GRILL - 1500W electric raclette grill, ideal for parties and family dinners. With a non-stick baking tray, the grooved surface can be grilled with grill marks and easily remove excess oil. 2 in 1 design, either put on the table, or stand in the living room, kitchen, and garden. Saves your trouble to pull out another piece of equipment!
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FAST HEATING & ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE - The adjustable grill temperature is ideal for a variety of cooking options, grilling like a professional chef! The visible indicator light ensures that you will not forget to close the grill after completing the operation. With 1500 watts of power electric grill effortlessly cooks up meats, veggies, and seafood just in minutes.
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ENJOY YOUR BBQ - Grilled steak, hamburgers, chicken, fish, and pizza. Our electric grill perfectly replaces the charcoal grill, the grill surface size is approx. 19.68*10.23*6.41 inches, especially great for apartments and patios. It’s suitable for family gatherings, Indoor BBQ parties, caravans, and self-catering holidays.
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EASY TO INSTALL & CLEAN - This grill is simple to use and easy to assemble, just 5 minutes can set up the legs. And the anti-adhesive coating makes it more convenient to use and easier to clean. And the bakeware can be taken off and cleaned directly without additional operations and can be washed in a dishwasher, which is very convenient.
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, Removable Nonstick Grate, Stainless Steel
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ENJOY OUTDOOR FLAVOR INDOORS. Grill your favorite foods year-round in any weather with this Hamilton Beach indoor grill. There's no need for a bulky, time-consuming outdoor grill that needs propane, charcoal or lighter fluid to heat up.
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LOCK IN JUICES AND FLAVOR — SEAR AT 450° F. The high searing heat of 450° F (232° C) locks in juices and flavors to provide perfect grilling results for everything you sear on this electric grill, from steak and burgers to pork chops and fish fillets.
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KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR FOOD: This indoor grill with hood comes with a convenient window in lid lets you watch food cook while keeping heat inside.
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EASY-TO-CLEAN NONSTICK GRILLING PLATE. The nonstick grilling plate keeps food from sticking to this indoor electric grill as you cook and is removable and dishwasher safe, so there's no more endless scraping to remove stuck-on food.
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VERSATILE GRILLING TEMPERATURES LET YOU GRILL EVERYTHING: From quick grilled shrimp and scallops to mushrooms, peppers and pineapple, there's almost no limit to the versatility of grilling, since the temperature adjusts from 200° F to 450° F.
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LESS MESS WITH EXTRA-LARGE DRIP TRAY. The tray fits right underneath the cooking surface, which directs drips into the tray as you grill, catching juices before they spill. After cooking, it slides out for easy cleanup in the dishwasher.
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COOKS MORE THAN STEAKS, BBQ, AND BURGERS: Grill chicken, fish, pizza, vegetables, fruit and more. Also great for Paleo and Keto diets.
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CONVENIENT POWER & PREHEAT LIGHTS. You'll know at a glance if the power is on when the red light illuminates and when the grill has reached your selected temperature, the green indicator light illuminates.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Homewell Electric BBQ Grill for Indoor & Outdoor Grilling with Warming Rack - Portable Patio Grill 1600 Watts (Red)
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ELECTRIC BARBECUE GRILL - No need to worry about buying charcoal or propane, the Homewell grill is electric! Simply plug it in to a standard USA 120V power source and you're ready to start grilling. The grill is perfect for indoor and outdoor grilling with a large 1600 watt heating element.
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EASY TO USE - Choose the perfect cooking temperature with the easy-to-use temperature control. Temperature range: 200°-425°F. The interlocking bowl and lid design insulates heat, allowing food to cook faster and evenly. Adjustable lid vent for additional heat and smoke control. Preheat the BBQ grill for best results.
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GRILL & WARMING RACK - Features a 14.5" grill top with upper warming/low-heat rack. Cook a variety of foods anywhere there's 120V power and 1600 watts!
11
Rating is 4 out of 5
VEVOR Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill, 1800W 200sq.in Electric BBQ Grill & 2 Zone Grilling Surface, Non-stick Ceramic Coating Plate, Adjustable Temperature, Removable Stand Patio Grill for Party Camping
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Robust Grilling Power: VEVOR high-power electric grill has a power output of 1800W, coupled with a large heating plate for powerful and rapid vertical heating, ensuring quick and continuous heating of food while locking in flavors and moisture. It has 5 adjustable temperature levels for even heating and quick temperature rise without burning.
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2 in 1 Electric BBQ Grill: 2 cooking areas are ready for grilling and griddling! The smooth texture side is perfect for grilling vegetables, locking in their nutrients and freshness. While the striped surface side is ideal for grilling meat, filtering away excess oil, and ensuring the food is not greasy. It is suitable for outdoor camping trips or indoor gatherings. Featuring a 200 square inch large grilling surface, VEVOR indoor/outdoor grill empowers you to cook a variety of foods all at once.
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Non-stick for Easy Clean: The portable BBQ grill is made of a durable and heat-resistant one-piece die-cast aluminum. It features a non-stick ceramic coating that allows for easy residue-free food removal, eliminating the hassle of scraping off remnants. Additionally, the lid and grill plate are dishwasher-safe, and can also easily washed by clean water.
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Made for your Convenience: This grill features a convenient drawer-style grease tray that filters away excess oil, keeping your hands clean. Fixable roll lid is both fixed and removable, making it easy to access your food. And the removable support stand allows for compact storage, convenient to transport in your car's trunk for outdoor activities. The sturdy base ensures stability and prevents wobbling during grilling, providing a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.
Would adding liquid smoke to the food on an electric grill help mimic the charcoal taste?
Adding liquid smoke to food cooked on an electric grill can definitely help mimic the charcoal taste to some extent. Liquid smoke is a flavoring product made from capturing and condensing the smoke produced during the combustion of wood. It can add a smoky flavor to food, which is one of the distinctive characteristics of grilling on charcoal.
Since electric grills do not produce the same amount or type of smoke as charcoal grills, using liquid smoke can help enhance the flavor and give your food a smokier taste similar to that achieved with charcoal. However, it is important to note that liquid smoke cannot perfectly replicate the complex flavors and nuances that come from grilling on actual charcoal.
To use liquid smoke, you can either brush it directly onto the food before grilling or add it to marinades or sauces for a longer period of time to infuse the flavor. It is advisable to use liquid smoke in moderation, as it can be quite potent and overpowering if too much is used.
Can using a charcoal starter chimney on an electric grill improve the taste?
Using a charcoal starter chimney on an electric grill is not likely to improve the taste of the food. Electric grills rely on direct heat from heating elements, while charcoal grills provide an entirely different flavor profile due to the smoke generated by the burning charcoal. While a charcoal starter chimney may help you light charcoal briquettes quickly and efficiently, it won't replicate the smoky flavor of a traditional charcoal grill.
Are there specific marinades or rubs that enhance the charcoal flavor on an electric grill?
Since an electric grill does not produce the same smoky flavor as a charcoal grill, it can be challenging to replicate or enhance that specific charcoal flavor. However, you can still use certain marinades or rubs to add depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste of your grilled food. Here are a few ideas:
- Smoky Spice Rub: Create a spice rub by combining smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This combination can give a smoky flavor to your food, enhancing the overall taste.
- Liquid Smoke Marinade: Liquid smoke is a flavoring derived from condensed smoke that can provide a smoky flavor to your food. You can combine liquid smoke, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and brown sugar to create a marinade.
- Chipotle or Smoky BBQ Marinade: Utilize smoky and rich flavors by using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a smoky BBQ sauce as a marinade. The spiciness and deep flavors can complement the taste of grilled food.
- Hickory or Mesquite Seasoning: Look for hickory or mesquite seasoning blends available in the market. These blends often contain smoky flavors that can help enhance the overall taste of grilled items.
Remember, while these marinades or rubs cannot fully replicate the charcoal flavor, they can still provide delicious and smoky undertones to your food when using an electric grill.
