We showed you what is quite likely the prettiest grill we've ever seen, but we're not done browsing grills this summer. We're currently very interested in the Cobb grill, a tiny yet powerful tabletop grill that was named the 2001 Invention of the Year by Time Magazine. What's so great about this little grill? Well, to start with, it only uses 8-10 charcoal briquettes.
Yes, it is a charcoal grill, which means that it doesn't have the instant convenience (and easier cleanup) of a gas grill. But moving past that, this is an extremely efficient and easy grill, if its avid fans are to be believed. They say that this isn't just an ordinary grill; it can also roast, smoke and bake. It's built with a "moat" that lets you cook vegetables at cooler temperatures, too, away from the main grilling surface.
The grill was designed in South Africa as a safer cooking system, using less fuel (corn cobs) and keeping the heat contained and insulated to prevent unintended fires. It's quite small and portable, and the outside supposedly stays cool even though the inside can reach up to 500°F.
We're curious about this grill! We don't think it would replace our larger, more powerful gas grill, but we are curious about its portability and versatility. Have you ever tried a Cobb grill?
• Find it: Cobb Premier Stainless Steel Grill, $159.95 at Garrett Wade
Related: The Element Grill by Fuego
(Images: Garrett Wade)
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we considered it long and hard, but instead bought a small weber since it is "known" territory and less expensive. i will certainly be checking the comments to see what others have to say about it!
Reminds me, in design, of Alton Brown's home-made terra cotta cooker. I approve! I would buy this product after seeing it work even once, or if it had a return policy.
I have one - it is fine for outdoor cooking but does not replace a BBQ as there is no flame and therefore not as much smoke or flavour. Also it does require cleaning after each use which is a bit of a pain.
I do love our Weber, but this is cute!
Emily
I have a Cobb and love it for camping, especially when its hot and there is a campfire ban. We do also use it at home for picnics. I love it because it uses so few coals, stays really hot for a long time, and can be put on almost any level surface without burning it.
I have a griddle and a "wok" to go on top, which makes it even more versatile than with the grill alone.
Its also compact, fitting perfectly in one of the under-seat compartments in our fiberglass trailer