"Jo" wrote in message
...
I'm looking to buy my husband a 'cheap' barbeque for his birthday (I say
cheap because we are not barbeque experts and really just want one to
practise with). I have no idea what sort are ideal for beginners. Can
anyone enlighten me - either what sort may be a good reasonably-priced
buy....or what to avoid.
Thanks in advance,
Jo


I'd advise to go for one of the relatively sturdy "kettle" types, they
enable you to get a decent pile of coals going, which are then knocked
around so that you end up with a nice even distribution of heat. Takes about
30 minutes to get a good, even fire with briquettes, by which time you've
done your food prep and everything is ready to go on.

Not sure about prices - ours was really at the top end of the basic
barbeques, £100 or so, but I have seen similar types in Homebase et al for
about £40, IIRC. With a bit of care it should last for ages.

Never been entirely convinced by gas barbeques, but then I haven't used one
in anger. They have very fast heat up times, but of course need the gas
bottle to be replenished from time to time. My brother loves his, though,
but then he's just got to have the latest and most expensive toys....


--
Richard Sampson

email me at
richard at olifant d-ot co do-t uk