With al fresco dining now firmly on the agenda in the UK, a BBQ is often the preferred choice for many. My old BBQ had seen better days, having been dug out year after year and often left to fend for itself against the elements during winter.
The high street is awash with grills for various budgets, but there are a few things to consider before parting with cash. Firstly, size matters when hosting multiple people. Secondly, aesthetics are important to avoid dreading the view outside. Thirdly, and most crucially for a foodie, the BBQ must cook perfectly, adding chargrilled flavour without burning burgers and sausages.
As someone who loves a cheeseburger but has little clue about grilling, I tested the Vonhaus Charcoal BBQ with support from my fiancé. At the time of writing, it is on sale at Amazon for £131.99, down from £199.99, a saving of 34%.
Features of the Vonhaus BBQ
The BBQ boasts a 2-in-1 grill and smoker. The premium cast iron grill is designed for even heat distribution and superior heat retention, locking in flavour and achieving impressive sear marks. An external temperature gauge helps monitor cooking without lifting the lid.
Assembly does take time. My fiancé, generally adept at DIY, took about an hour and a half alone, though it is really a two-person job. The quality is evident during assembly, as the BBQ is solid and looks impressive. Amazon reviewers agree, with one advising to 'take your time' and another noting it 'takes a while to construct, but it's not difficult.' A third recommended allowing two hours for building.
Performance and Design
Once lit, the BBQ proved worth the effort. It holds a flame well, and the coal temperature gauge is handy. The sleek design impresses guests, with many complimenting its aesthetic appeal. The BBQ includes utensil hooks, fold-out side shelves, and a lower shelf for easy serving during gatherings.
The real test is in the food. We cooked sausages, burgers, and beef skewers, all remaining juicy without drying out. The BBQ flavour was present but subtle, allowing the meat taste to shine through. The BBQ has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon from nearly 750 reviews.
One reviewer summarised: 'Looks good. A great size Barbecue which I can easily recommend for a large family. Great performance. I love that the height is adjustable for the coal tray and the side trays, which can fold down after use. Cooked my food extremely well.'
My fiancé agrees it is a 'dream to cook' on. While initial set-up is time-consuming, it only needs to be done once, and the results are well worth it. We both agreed it looks far more expensive than its £132 price tag.
