Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill 22-Inch Black review for outdoor cooking enthusiasts

Description

A Versatile Charcoal Grill with Features to Impress

The Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black, has been my go-to grilling companion for outdoor cooking sessions. It’s not just a simple charcoal grill; it’s packed with thoughtful features that make the experience both enjoyable and efficient. From its sleek design to the impressive cooking surface area of 443 square inches, I’ve found it to be a solid choice for anyone who loves grilling. While it’s not without its flaws, the advantages stand out, making it a worthwhile contender in the world of charcoal grills.

Design and Build: A Balance of Form and Function

I have to admit, the stainless steel finish and overall build quality of this grill are impressive. It’s sturdy, with a steel frame that ensures durability, even after frequent use. The Taller legs give it a comfortable height for cooking, so I didn’t feel like I was hunched over the grill—a small detail that makes a big difference during long cooking sessions. The Tuck-Away lid holder is a lifesaver, especially when both hands are occupied. I no longer have to awkwardly place the lid on the ground or balance it somewhere unsafe.

The built-in lid thermometer helped me monitor the internal temperature easily, ensuring I didn’t serve undercooked or overdone food. One small gripe, though, is that the thermometer could be a bit more precise. While it’s helpful, I sometimes found myself double-checking with a separate thermometer just to be sure.

Performance and Cooking Experience

What truly sets this grill apart is the Gourmet BBQ System Hinged Cooking Grate. I tested it with some GBS inserts, like a griddle and wok, and the versatility blew me away. Making smoky chili or whipping up breakfast outdoors has never been easier—this grill isn’t limited to just burgers and steaks. Speaking of which, it can hold up to 13 burgers when using a Weber burger press, which is perfect for family gatherings or small parties.

Another feature I appreciated was the Char-Basket fuel holders, which made arranging briquettes a breeze. I could easily create heat zones for indirect grilling, which is something I struggled with on my old grill. The superior heat retention of the steel bowl ensures consistent cooking, even on windy days.

However, the One-Touch Cleaning System deserves special mention. Cleaning up after grilling used to be my least favorite part, but this system makes it so much easier. Ash disposal is no longer a messy affair, and I can spend more time enjoying the food instead of scrubbing the grill.

Key Benefits

• Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting use.
• Versatile cooking options with GBS inserts like griddles and woks.
• Tuck-Away lid holder adds convenience during the cooking process.
• One-Touch Cleaning System simplifies post-grill cleanup.

Areas for Improvement

• The built-in lid thermometer could be more accurate.
• Assembly required, which might be daunting for some users.
• While sturdy, the grill’s 37.2-pound weight makes it less portable.

Competing Brands

When comparing this grill to others in its category, like the Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill or the Kamado Joe Classic II, the Weber Master-Touch holds its own with some unique advantages. For instance, the hinged cooking grate is something I didn’t find in many competitors, and it makes adding charcoal mid-cook incredibly simple.

That said, the Kamado grills often excel in heat retention and efficiency, thanks to their ceramic construction. They’re better for low-and-slow cooking, but they lack the user-friendly cleaning system that the Master-Touch offers. If you’re after a balance between versatility and ease of use, this Weber grill takes the lead.

True Value

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, I believe this grill offers excellent value. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the durable materials, versatile cooking features, and ease of maintenance make it worth the investment. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone who loves experimenting with different grilling techniques or just appreciates a well-made product.

For someone like me, who enjoys not just grilling but also trying dishes like stir-fry or breakfast on the grill, the features of this model provide a fantastic balance. While it may not be the perfect grill for everyone, it checks a lot of boxes for both casual and seasoned grilling enthusiasts alike.

Additional information