Pros and Cons of Propane and Natural Gas

Grilled foods offer a unique taste different from stove top and baked foods. Different flavor compounds are generated during the grilling process. A grill offers high, dry and direct heat causing a chemical reaction called Maillard browning. In order to achieve Maillard browning grill masters typically use natural gas or propane gas to heat their grills. The type of gas you choose is an important decision because it effects a grill's heat, location and price. In today’s blog Public Kitchen Supply will explain the pros and cons of propane and natural gas.
Grill masters know the importance of heat generation when grilling. Natural gas is great at cooking food slowly and provides a clean, crisp taste. Foods like fish, chicken and vegetables cook very well with natural gas but red meats can be a challenge. Propane gas is the best choice when cooking red meats. Propane gas generates almost twice the heat of natural gas. This is an important factor when grilling foods like steak because high heat is what penetrates and cooks thick, juicy cuts of red meat.
Price is an important factor when choosing natural gas or propane. Natural gas costs nearly 1/3rd less than propane. Natural gas generates half the temperature next to liquid propane. If you’re stuck on price choose a neutral option like Saturn’s Heavy Duty Gas Stock Pot Range, it can use both natural gas and liquid propane. The Saturn Heavy Duty Gas Stock Pot features a cast iron burner and cooking grate to keep cooking consistent. This appliance marries natural gas with liquid propane.
One of the biggest differences between propane and natural gas is location. Liquid Propane is a great option for grill masters that need portability. It works well for food trucks, catering companies and people who enjoy grilling outdoors. Since propane can be liquefied it is easily stored in a bottle. Liquid propane is easy to transport and widely available but it can be an annoyance. Unlike natural gas liquid propane does not offer a continuous supply of gas. Since it comes in a bottle it requires individuals to restock gas after the bottle is empty. Liquid Propane can be unattractive and take up space, especially if you purchase a large bottle of propane.
Natural gas is distributed as a utility making it very accessible. If you choose to use natural gas it allows you to grill indoors. Grilling indoors in fantastic for restaurants because it provides a secure, consistent environment all year long. Since natural gas is distributed as a utility is provides a continuous supply of gas. For natural gas we recommend Saturn’s Heavy Duty 36” Gas Counter Char Broiler .  It is extremely convenient because it is designed to set on your kitchen’s counter top. This allows all of your ingredients and utensils to be readily available. While natural gas is extremely accessible it does have some locational downfalls. Natural gas is not available in all communities eliminating it as an option for some people. It also remains in a permanent location eliminating portability.
Choosing natural gas or liquid propane truly comes down to your style of restaurant. Natural gas is great for permanent locations while propane is a must for travel. At Public Kitchen Supply our duties surpass kitchen supplies. We work hard to provide our customers with useful information about their kitchen appliances. Visit our website at publickitchensupply.com for fantastic kitchen equipment and sound restaurant advice. We hope to hear from you soon!!