Outdoor Electric Grills - The Secret to Apartment Balcony BBQ Success
Nothing beats the smoky, savory flavor of a juicy burger or perfectly charred steak straight from the barbecue grill. But for many apartment dwellers, grilling is just a summertime fantasy. Without access to a backyard grill, apartment balcony barbecuing can seem off limits.
However, there is a secret weapon allowing urban grill masters to capture true barbecue flavor right from their own balcony - the outdoor electric grill. Keep reading to discover how electric grills can unlock apartment balcony BBQ success.
Why Electric Grills for Apartments?
For apartment renters, setting up a full-size gas or charcoal grill on the balcony just isn't in the cards. Most apartments prohibit open flame grilling on balconies due to the potential fire hazard. Hauling around heavy bags of charcoal may also be impractical without dedicated backyard space.
This is where electric grills provide the perfect solution. Electric grills don't use an open flame, avoiding smoke and fire risks. Many apartment buildings that restrict traditional grills still allow electric grills on balconies and patios. Electric grills are also lightweight and portable, easy to set up in compact spaces.
With advanced heating elements like infrared burners, electric grills can mimic the performance of gas and charcoal, searing foods for barbecue flavor without the mess and cleanup of traditional grilling. For apartment dwellers, electric grills are the safe, convenient way to enjoy true outdoor grilling from home.
Types of Electric Grills for Balconies
There are a few popular electric grill types ideal for apartment balcony use:
- Small, portable electric grills - These lightweight grills are specifically designed for tailgating, camping, or balconies. Look for models around 200 square inches.
- Electric griddles - Griddles offer more versatile flat-top cooking surface for quick weeknight meals.
- Grill/griddle combos - Get the best of both worlds with a grill/griddle combo unit.
- Built-in electric grills - Some apartment buildings feature built-in electric grills on balconies.
- Infrared grills - Infrared burners heat food directly without drying it out.
Top electric grill brands for balconies include George Foreman, Cuisinart, Hamilton Beach, and Nexgrill among others. Check reviews to compare size, power, ease of use, and bonus features.
Features to Look For
To choose the best electric grill for an apartment balcony, keep these key features in mind:
- Compact, portable size - Ensure the grill is small enough to fit and be safely used on the balcony.
- Large cooking surface - Look for 200+ square inches of grilling space to handle multiple foods.
- Nonstick grates - Nonstick coating prevents food from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Adjustable temperature controls - Choose a grill with variable temperature settings for versatile cooking.
- Side tables or shelves - Handy for prep work and keeping ingredients nearby.
- Drip trays - Capture fat and grease drippings for quick disposal.
- Safety features - Auto shut-off prevents accidental fires.
Setting Up Your Balcony Grill
Once you've picked out the perfect electric grill, proper setup is key for safe and successful grilling on an apartment balcony:
- Select a safe, non-flammable grilling spot away from railings or walls.
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent smoke buildup.
- Check for a nearby outlet, or use an outdoor extension cord.
- Carefully read apartment regulations to avoid rule violations.
- Break in the new grill by heating up and oiling the grates.
With some prep work, you'll be ready to start grilling delicious meals from the comfort of home.
Grilling Tips and Techniques
Mastering some basic grilling techniques will help you get the most from an electric balcony grill:
- Preheat the grill completely before adding foods.
- Use indirect vs direct heat to avoid burning.
- Flip foods once halfway through grilling time.
- Brush on marinades and sauces only at the end.
- Allow meats to rest 5-10 minutes after cooking.
- Carefully oil and clean the grates after each use.
With a little practice, you'll be an electric grilling pro in no time.
Recipes to Try on Your Balcony Grill
An electric grill unlocks countless quick and easy recipes for apartment balcony chefs. Try out crowd-pleasing dishes like:
- Juicy grilled chicken wings
- Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic
- Savory salmon steaks with lemon and dill
- Sizzling fajitas with peppers and onions
- Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter
- Warm peach and blueberry grilled fruit skewers
With an electric grill, any night can become a neighborhood barbecue right from your balcony. Get creative with recipes that feature your favorite grilled flavors.
For apartment dwellers, electric grills unlock the possibility of outdoor grilling without the hassles of charcoal or gas. Compact electric grills are approved for use even in apartments with open flame restrictions. Plus, they mimic authentic barbecue flavor through advanced heating elements.
Choosing the right size electric grill with handy features will make balcony grilling a breeze. With proper setup and grilling techniques, anyone can host a barbecue bash from their city high-rise. This summer, get outside and make the most of apartment balcony grilling with a space-saving electric grill.