Hibachi outdoor grills are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy grilling outside but have limited spacing. With the original flavors of charcoal and perfect sear marks, this hibachi barbecue grill is an ideal choice for a small to gathering of 5 to 9 people. These grills feature a unique, simple, and sturdy build. Are there any other fuel sources for a hibachi grill?
Here, 4seasongrills has covered the key pointers. So, let’s begin from the basis.
What is a Hibachi Outdoor Grill?
Hibachi grill is a traditional cooking grill device that refers to a small, portable BBQ grill that mainly uses charcoal as its primary heat source.
The word hibachi means fire bowl. Initially, these hibachi grills were open-top containers that held burning charcoal within them.
Now, presently, these grills are a popular choice, as said because of their ultimate features that are unmatchable.
Modern hibachi grills often feature a flat, open cooking surface or grates, allowing for high-temperature searing of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
Our Top Picks for Hibachi Outdoor Grill and Cooking Are
1. Everdure Oval Cast Iron Hibachi Outdoor Grill
Product Specifications
- Dimension: 10.7 x 19.56 x 8.15 inches
- Weight: 24.2 lbs.
- Cooking surface: 180 sq. in
- Rack: 1
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Free Standing
- Material: Cast Iron
Everdure Oval Cast Iron Hibachi Outdoor Grill is a portable and compact tabletop grill. Its construction involves a strong cast iron griddle and handles for easy transportation. Since it is compact, it can be your great cooking companion during tailgating, hunting, camping, or when out for picnics.
No matter if you are cooking for yourself or a small gathering, its 180 sq. in. is quite sufficient with just the right size. This hibachi charcoal BBQ grill will give the perfect searing marks on your meat and veggies, cooked on sturdy cast iron grates.
Speaking of its body, it’s perfectly finished with cast iron with enamel coating, offering an ultimate cooking experience for experienced and newbies equally. The built-in vent will allow complete control over heat and cooking. It is easy to clean; however, keep in mind that it should be placed on a heat-resistant and flat surface.
2. IronMaster Hibachi Grill Outdoor
Product Specifications
- Dimension: 12.5 x 18.9 x 7.9 inches
- Weight: 33 lbs.
- Cooking surface: 169.26 sq. in
- Rack: 1
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Free Standing
- Material: Cast Iron
Iron Master Hibachi Grill Outdoor is our second pick, and it is constructed completely in the Japanese hibachi outdoor grill style. It offers great heat retention and provides ultimate grilling every time. As it is titled an outdoor grill, it could be your apartment balcony grill, too.
The high-quality cast iron is reliable and sturdy, and the best thing is it is free from lead and cadmium, but you have to season it before every use.
Although it is a hibachi charcoal grill, but its oversized fire bowl can easily filled up with wood as well.
Furthermore, this outdoor hibachi has an adjustable draft door temperature with two different heights. With this hibachi outdoor grill, you can feed eight people maximum with ease.
3. Iron Master Mini Hibachi Grill
- Dimension: 7 x 14.2 x 5.5 inches
- Weight: 13.22 lbs.
- Cooking surface: 99.4 sq. in
- Rack: 1
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Portable
- Material: Cast Iron
Iron Master Mini Hibachi Grill is just like the other grill by the same manufacturer but in a small size. It features the same quality and durability as cast iron.
If you are looking for a compact grill that can cater to two people, this outdoor hibachi grill is exactly what you need and will never disappoint.
Before you start grilling on it, use your cooking oil and season your grill, preventing rusting. Since it is easy to clean, thanks to cast iron construction. Plus, the excellent conductivity of heat will ensure uniform cooking throughout.
4. VACHAN Portable Charcoal Grill
Product Specifications
- Dimension: 27.5 x 8 x 12.95 inches
- Weight: 21 lbs.
- Cooking surface: 125 sq. in 221 sq. in.
- Rack: 4
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Free Standing
- Material: stainless steel
Vachan portable charcoal grill is a portable grill that can cater to 5 to 10 people with an adjustable height of 25 inches to 30 inches. It is detachable and portable and is easy to carry when you are out camping etc. The carbon tank secures the charcoal easily, but it is not allowed to be used as fuel for this hibachi grill.
This hibachi outdoor grill is a complete package with its amazing and handy grilling tool. You will get 1 integrated grill, 1 non-stick grill pan, 1 charcoal slot, 3 stainless steel grill grates, 2 anti-burn handles, 4 grill feet, 1 bottom shelf, 2 shelf brackets, 10 BBQ sticks, 4 fixing nuts, 1 carry bag, and 1 pair of anti scald gloves.
Vachan portable grill is highly heat resistant with anti-corrosion coating and a 3 to 5 mm durable thick stainless steel net. It features detachable legs, turning this grill into a simple and easy to clean unit.
5. Onlyfire Charcoal BBq Hibachi Grill
Product Specifications
- Dimension: 5x 5 inches
- Weight: 22 lbs.
- Cooking surface: 144 sq. in
- Rack: 1
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Free Standing
- Material: Ceramic and wood
Onlyfire charcoal bbq hibachi grill, unlike other hibachi outdoor grill, is constructed with ceramic with wooden handles. This grill brings a grill lifter along to effortlessly lift the grid. The charcoal deposit is easy and seamless.
Its portability and anti-scalding wooden handles prevent hand burns; featuring bottom vents ensures flame control and eliminates excessive smoke with ease.
The cooking area is 144 sq. in. with 22 lbs., which is good to cook for 4 to 5 people.
6. IronMaster Hibachi Grill Outdoor Mini
Product Specifications
- Dimension: 10 x 11.4 x 6 inches
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Rack: 1
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Installation: Free Standing
- Material: Cast Iron with metal handles
Small, yet portable. This Ironmaster Hibachi Grill Outdoor mini might seem compact, but it offers two different heights. Speaking of it, this grill offers a high-precision casting process.
The cast iron build is polished and pre-seasoned with vegetable oil; hence, you can cook your steaks and sides in fun with this tabletop portable grill.
The draft door allows adjustable temperature. However, the best feature is its rotating cooking grates, which are unique, and you might not find them in other listed Ironmaster hibachi outdoor grills. Season it before and after every use to prevent it from rust.
Are there any other fuel sources in hibachi grills?
Since hibachi grills were invented, they have been designed to use charcoal as their primary source of fuel for grilling because of their consistent heating and smokey flavor.
However, with time, many popular brands, like Cuisinart, Weber, etc., have innovated their cooking techniques and incorporated alternative fuel sources. This includes
1. Propane or Gas
Some hibachi grills are designed to use propane or natural gas as a fuel source. These gas-powered grills offer several advantages:
- Ease of Use: Gas ignites quickly, eliminating the need for charcoal preparation.
- Precise Heat Control: With adjustable knobs, you can easily control the cooking temperature.
- Less Cleanup: No ash residue makes cleaning quicker and simpler.
- Compact Design: Many gas hibachi grills are portable and ideal for small spaces.
Popular gas hibachi models, often called “tabletop gas grills,” blend the compactness of traditional hibachis with modern convenience.
2. Electricity
Electric hibachi grills are another modern variation, particularly popular for indoor use or in areas where open flames are restricted. Key benefits include:
- Plug-and-Play Operation: Simply plug it in, and the grill heats up.
- Smoke-Free Cooking: Ideal for apartments or places with strict smoke regulations.
- Temperature Stability: Electric grills maintain a steady heat level throughout cooking.
While they lack the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling, electric hibachis excel in convenience and accessibility.
3. Wood
Although rare for hibachi-style grills, hardwood chunks or wood pellets can sometimes be used in specific models designed for alternative fuels. Benefits of using wood include:
- Enhanced Smoky Flavor: Different woods (e.g., hickory, cherry, mesquite) add unique flavors to food.
- Natural Cooking Experience: Perfect for those who enjoy traditional, rustic grilling methods.
Wood is typically used in outdoor hibachi setups that are custom-built for wood burning.
4. Briquettes
Instead of lump charcoal, some users prefer charcoal briquettes for their uniform size and longer burn time. While technically a type of charcoal, briquettes are processed and mixed with additives that make them burn consistently and longer, which is ideal for extended grilling sessions.
Which Fuel Source is Best for You?
Choosing the right fuel source depends on your grilling preferences and circumstances:
- If you prioritize authentic flavor and traditional grilling, stick with charcoal or hardwood.
- For ease of use and speed, consider a gas or electric hibachi grill.
- If you value longer cooking times with less fuss, charcoal briquettes might be your best option.
Conclusively, Hibachi Outdoor Grill
Hibachi outdoor grill is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves grilling in small spaces, on the go, or in traditional Japanese style. Their simplicity, affordability, and ability to produce mouthwatering results make them a favorite among grillers worldwide.
Whether you’re cooking for a casual family meal or hosting a backyard barbecue, a hibachi grill delivers both performance and flavor. So why wait? Get your hibachi grill today and elevate your outdoor cooking game.
