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10 Best Yakitori Grill (2023 Review) Our Top Choices

Posted on August 29, 2021January 23, 2023 by John Bird

It’s hard to find a yakitori grill on the market, but this is where we come in. To make it easier for you, we’ve rounded up the best yakitori grills we could find, plus a guide on how to make your own yakitori at home.

Curious on what a yakitori grill is? We’ve got you. There’s nothing quite like eating Japanese food with your loved ones at home, and a yakitori grill is one way to make that happen!

What is a Yakitori Grill?

“Yakitori” literally translates to “grilled chicken.” In this case, “yaki” is “grill,” and “tori” is “chicken.” In itself, however, yakitori refers to bamboo-skewered bite-sized pieces of meat. Different parts of the chicken are used, from the chicken breasts, thighs, skin, liver, and other innards.

Aside from chicken, however, beef and pork are also used.

A yakitori grill, then, is what’s used to make yakitori. Traditional yakitori grills has a clay exterior, is rectangular, and is a few inches deep. As yakitori only uses bite-sized pieces, the grill itself is small, and uses charcoal as fuel.

What Makes a Yakitori Grill Different?

A Japanese yakitori grill is more compact and lightweight in comparison to other grills. As a result, your favorite yakitori meats are quick and easy to make!

Yakitori grills also make use of white charcoal, also known as binchotan charcoal. You may also known yakitori grills as binchotan grills because of this! Binchotan charcoal burns clean, and doesn’t add any flavor to the meats themselves.

The Top 10 Best Yakitori Grill on the Market

Are you ready to discover the best yakitori grills on the market? Make Japanese cuisine happen at the comfort of your own home with our top ten picks below:

01 Fire Sense Yakitori Grill

Features:

Handmade with a clay exterior
Has adjustable vents
Charcoal grills are designed for tabletop use
Has a stand with handles included
With a 17″ x 10″ cooking surface area

Why You Should Get It:

This Fire Sense chrome cooking grill mixes the style of traditional yakitori grills with modern cooking design. The grill is handmade with a clay exterior, but the cooking grill itself is chrome. It has adjustable ventilation with internal charcoal grates, plus a handmade ceramic interior. Adjust the airflow anytime!

The charcoal grills are designed for tabletop use, so you can enjoy the tabletop yakitori grill experience with your family and loved ones! Though traditional yakitori is small, the 17″ x 10″ cooking surface area already allows you to put as much meat as you like on this large yakatori charcoal grill.

Innovative design meets premium quality with the Fire Sense Yakitori Grill. Don’t miss out on it — get it today!

02 IronMaster Cast-Iron Yakitori BBQ Grills

Features:

Made with high-quality cast iron material
Has a non-stick effect, making grilling and cooking much easier
Portable yakitori grill allows grilling for up to five people
Can be used for indoor or outdoor grilling
Has 109 square inches of cooking area with the grill grate

Why You Should Get It:

Love a portable yakitori grill you can enjoy? We have the best pick for you. The IronMaster Cast-Iron Yakitori Grill boasts high-quality, cast-iron material. As a result, this yakitori grill allows the heat to adjust evenly throughout the grill grate, locking in the needed moisture and flavor of your meat.

You don’t have to worry about a thing, either — this yakatori grill is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. No chemical coating, paint, lead or cadmium are involved in its cooking surface! The non-stick effect also makes it much easier to grill and cook.

Have we also mentioned that it’s portable? As a portable grill, you can bring this lightweight barbecue grill anywhere at only 22 pounds. While lightweight and small, it still allows grilling for up to five people! You can use it for either indoor or outdoor grilling, too.

Add clean coals with the coal door and adjust airflow with the large-diameter vent. The two adjustable heights also allow you to customize your cooking experience! This is the best yakitori grill you can get with easy-to-assemble parts and exquisite workmanship. Buy it for yourself here.

03 ICECO Portable Folding Yakitori Grill

Features:

Multipurpose – made to be a four-in-one charcoal grill
Made with rust-resistant, erosion-resistant, high-strength premium stainless steel
With double-sided ventilation and a gully-designed bottom that can easily achieve high heat
Foldable and portable – bring this yakitori grill anywhere!
Two-height adjustable — perfect as a standing grill or as a tabletop yakitori grill

Why You Should Get It:

If there’s any portable yakitori grill that fits everything you need, the ICECO Portable Folding Grill is definitely the one. First off, it’s made with multiple purposes in mind! As a four-in-one charcoal grill, you can use it as a smoker, pizza oven, and fire pit. There’s an innovative tray that can double as a grill lid any time.

While made to be portable and multi-purpose, it doesn’t skimp out on quality, either! It’s made with premium stainless steel, which is rust and erosion-resistant. No matter how you use this portable grill indoors or outdoors, you can be assured of safe and long-term use!

What’s more — you can do your grilling at two heights, too! The standing grill can easily be turned into a tabletop grill once you adjust its height. With a cooking area of 225 square inches, you can definitely grill all the food you like, from chicken breast to vegetables.

04 Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker

Features:

Comes in a unique folding design
With a surface of 166 square inches – not extremely narrow, but not too wide, either!
Made with rust-proof, durable, food-grade stainless steel
Grill plates comes with side vents and sturdy, heat-resistant frame
Portable, slim, and compact, making it a travel-friendly grill

Why You Should Get It:

Need to grill on the go? The Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker is the one for you! It comes with foldable legs in a unique design — not only does it save space in storage, but it makes the grill itself portable, slim, and easy to travel with any time. Plus, it’s quite easy to set up!

While portable and slim, this grill still has a surface area of over 166 square inches, which is a good size for any great yakitori grill. You can definitely grill your meat and vegetables all at the same time!

Even with a lot of use, this grill will stand the test of time. The sturdy food-grade stainless steel is sturdy, won’t rust, and is even dishwasher-safe! Yup, you only have to pop it in the dishwasher to clean it up.

Worried about the charcoal needed in your grill? Worry no more. The Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker features side vents with a sturdy, heat-resistant frame that gets your charcoal burning better. Achieve the flavor you need in no time!

05 Everdure Cube Charcoal Grill

Features:

Portable and lightweight — the grills’ ideal size and weight for outdoor use
Complete with built-in heat protection
Designed with a portable, integrated storage tray, bamboo cutting board, and safety latches
Charcoal tray, fire box, and removable grill rack are easy to clean
No gas grill needed — only charcoal is enough!

Why You Should Get It:

The Everdure Cube Charcoal Grill boasts a unique design for all your grilling needs. As it comes in a cube, you wouldn’t expect all of its features, but they’re there nevertheless! It’s designed to have a portable, integrated storage tray, bamboo cutting board, and safety latches.

Not only can you start grilling on this charcoal grill — you can also store all your food, prepare your meet and vegetables, and make sure everything stays safe and properly stored all throughout!

Plus, it has a built-in protection shield, too. You can practically grill on any other surface you would want. It’s lightweight and portable, so you can bring it along just about anywhere and have delicious yakitori still!

With 115 square inches of grilling area, you have more than enough space for all your food. Grill your meat and vegetables side by side with no problem at all!

06 WILLBBQ Quality Portable Yakitori Grill

Features:

Comes with a durable, burn-resistant and rust-proof carbon alloy plate
Carbon alloy plate is adjustable
Has high heat resistance
Has excellent ventilation to control airflow
Has an ash outlet for easy cleaning

Why You Should Get It:

Out of the best yakitori grills we’ve had so far, this one definitely takes a place in the top spot! If you’re looking for a large yakatori charcoal grill that will last you a long time, you don’t have to look any further. This durable, quality yakitori grill is the one for you.

It’s made of durable, burn-resistant and rust-proof carbon alloy plate, which is also adjustable for 8-10 centimeters. You can control temperature and airflow easily with its excellent ventilation, plus there’s an ash outlet for easy cleaning. The adjustable vents make it much easier for you. You can use it for cooking outdoors, too!

For the best results in your yakitori grilling, consider the WILLBBQ. You can make the best Japanese food happen with these grills in no time!

07 The Bincho Grill – Yakitori Table Top Grill

Features:

Made with heavy gauge stainless steel
Has a thick aluminum insert for heat insulation, ash collection, and ease of cleaning
With two adjustable vents for airflow and heat
Has double walls for extra rigid construction
Has solid poplar handles and legs

Why You Should Get It:

The Bincho Grill is here for the best yakitori grilling on the world market! With The Bincho Grill, you’re guaranteed that everything is built to last. What more could you expect out of the heavy-gauge stainless steel material? Eat everything right off the skewer with no worries at all.

Plus, there’s also an aluminum insert for heat insulation, ash collection, and ease of cleaning! All you have to do is pull it out to wash. The perk? It will never rust. Clean the grill as you need to no matter what!

With two adjustable vents, you can have direct heat and temperature control going on at the same time. The double walls allow for extra rigid construction, and it also has solid polar handles and legs. The best yakitori grills were made to be sturdy, and this charcoal grill is no exception! Invest in The Bincho Grill today.

08 Homping Portable Charcoal Grill

Features:

Made with iron
Reduces smoke by 90%
With battery-operated fan control
With easy-light ignition
Comes with a carrying case and a grill safety tool

Why You Should Get It:

Want something portable and can be used indoors? The Homping Portable Grill is the one for you! It retains heat quite well and is supported by an internal fan. The best part is that the stainless steel grates make it non-stick, so the sear is left on the meats.

Grilling is also made easy with the easy-light ignition and battery-operated fan control. And speaking of the fan — it practically reduces the smoke to nothing once in use. If you feel like grilling indoors or just don’t like smoke when you do start to grill, the Homping Portable Grill is the one for you.

Every removable part can go straight into the dishwasher, making this unit a breeze to clean. It also comes with a carrying case and grill safety tool, too! You only need a few briquettes to get this grill started as well. What are you waiting for? Get the Homping Yakitori Grill today!

09 Elite Gourmet Tabletop Electric Grill

Features:

With a 14″ grilling surface for all the meats, fishes, and veggies you can think of
Circular heating makes it possible for you to heat things up evenly
Everything is detachable and dishwasher-safe
Has a convenient, adjustable thermostat
Comes with a domed glass lid and removable drip tray

Why You Should Get It:

Want an outdoor cookout in the comfort of your own home? The Elite Gourmet Electric Grill makes it possible! Make the best yakitori with its convenient circular heating — you can be guaranteed for each piece of food to achieve a well-done state. It helps to have indirect grilling as an option with this electric grill as well!

After you’re all done with your grilling, you don’t have to worry about clean-up! Everything is detachable and dishwasher-safe. When you’re cooking, you can adjust the temperature to your liking with the adjustable thermostat. Unlike with a gas grill, you don’t have to worry about spatters of grease with the domed glass lid.

Plus, there’s also a removable drip tray included for your convenience. You can disassemble everything easily.

Explore endless possibilities with the best yakitori grills — with the Elite Gourmet sitting on top of the list.

10 Fire Sense Black Notebook Yakitori Grill

Features:

Stands at thirteen inches high
Portable and comes with a charcoal and grill rack
Sturdy with the high heat resistant steel
Slim, lightweight, and easy to store

Why You Should Get It:

Looking for the best portable, compact grill you can travel around with anywhere, anytime? Look no further. The Fire Sense Black Notebook Yakitori Grill answers all your needs! At thirteen inches high, it’s the perfect grill you can bring along to any occasion — unlike a conventional gas grill you have to fire up.

With Fire Sense, you’re sure that the materials are built to last. It’s sturdy, with high heat resistant steel, and is slim, lightweight, and easy to store. You can definitely make space for this Fire Sense unit in your pantry!

So, if portability is on your top priorities in selecting a yakitori grill, this one’s for you.

What to Look For in a Yakitori Grill

Size

Yakitori grills are typically smaller than most, but when buying your very own grills, you want enough cooking area for all your food! When looking into a yakitori or bincho grill, try to estimate the size that you’ll be cooking for — and how much you’ll be cooking in the first place.

Most yakitori grills have the size of their cooking area stated in their features, so make sure you take a look before committing to anything.

Price for Value

You don’t want to go for something cheap that breaks easily! Or worse, something expensive that breaks easily, too. You want something in the perfect middle: the price is just right and you know you paid for quality. To discern this, take a look at the material used. Which brings us to our next deciding factor…

Material

Most yakitori grills, when traditionally made, are out of clay. However, conventional and modern yakitori grills you might find on the world market involve heavy gauge stainless steel, a ceramic interior, wire mesh, a wooden base, ceramic coating, and may even be chrome-plated.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s sturdy and durable. You want something food-grade if you’re going for stainless steel, for example, and one that doesn’t rust or corrode in time. Ultimately, you want something that lasts!

Tabletop Grill VS Foldable Grill

Yakitori grills are quite small, but that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice functionality! Many yakitori grills might come in tabletop form or with foldable legs. It’s up to you to choose which kind of yakitori grill you want for yourself.

As a middle-ground, you might want to look into height-adjustable yakitori grills. These yakitori grills can transform from your typical grill to a tabletop grill in no time! There are also those that have foldable legs and are already a tabletop grill in the first place. Look into these options and see which one is the best for you.

Indoor VS Outdoor

You don’t want to accidentally bring an indoor grill for outdoor use! That’s why it’s best to invest in one or the other first. Think about where you’re going to do a Japanese-style party or where you would usually do your grilling in the first place. Would it be indoors or outdoors?

That one question will make you ponder and invest in the right product. Outdoor grills are made to stand general wear and tear that the weather and other elements may provide!

How to Use a Yakitori Grill

Prepare Your Coals

Prepare coals just enough to cover the bottom of the grill of your choosing with the coals. Remember to use just enough to cover — any more and there will be excessive heat and flame.

Lighting the Coals

We recommend using a chimney starter for this one! Light the end of the chimney starter and light your coals before spreading it on the bottom of the grill.

When grilling, use the vents to adjust the airflow and heat. Remember: more airflow generates more heat. So if you want a higher temperature, open the vents wider, and close it when you need to control the temperature more.

Cooling Off

Use an extinguishing pot to cool off your coals. Don’t pour water onto your barbecue grill after yakitori grilling to cool it off — you actually risk breaking your grill, its charcoal grate, and everything in between!

Tips on Using a Yakitori Grill

Use the Right Skewers

Yes, there’s such a thing as the “right” skewers when it comes to yakitori grilling! While you can use any regular skewer for yakitori, having the right ones can help while you’re grilling. These skewers are called teppo gushi, and are tapered to a flat end. As a result, it’s much easier to rotate the yakitori as you cook it.

And speaking of using the right skewers, make sure you soak your skewers before you grill! It helps them not burn too fast during the actual grilling process.

Don’t Leave Too Much Space When You Grill

In other words, it’s best to crowd the skewer. If you leave too much space between the skewers when you grill, the chicken pieces will dry out! You want your chicken juicy and moist to the taste. Tighter spaces mean juicier chicken.

Another tip? Season as you cook, instead of seasoning when you begin — and only then! When you season as you cook your yakitori, you give more depth and flavor to your chicken pieces.

Make Sure the Heat is Consistent

You don’t want to cook your yakitori over too high or low heat. No, a middle ground with medium heat is best! Temperature control is important — you want your yakitori to have an even doneness all around.

How to Make Yakitori

What You Need:

Bamboo skewers for grilling
Your chosen meat and vegetables
Soy sauce
Mirin
Sake
Sugar
Water and salt
Yuzu
Your charcoal grill and coals

Step #1: Soak the wOoden Skewers

Soak the wooden skewers before anything else first! When you soak them in water, you prevent them from burning too fast over the grills. It’ll make it easier for you.

Step #2: Cut Your Meats

If you’re using chicken thighs, make sure you cut them in 2×2 bite-sized pieces. The same goes for any other chicken part you may use — 1 1/2 inch pieces to 2×2 pieces typically work the best. The chicken skin, meanwhile, should be cut in long strips.

Clean vegetables first before skewering them as well. Make sure everything’s in bite-sized pieces before you start grilling!

Step #3: Make the Sauce

Tare is the popular yakitori sauce used when people eat yakitori. To make tare, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a small pot over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil before letting it simmer for ten to fifteen minutes. You want it to reduce to a thick sauce!

Step #4: Heat the Coals

It’s best if you use a chimney starter for a Japanese yakitori grill. If you’re using binchotan charcoal instead of lump charcoal, you know that you’ve heated the coals properly once the coals are all covered in white ash. If you’re using lump charcoal, there’s no need to look for the white ash to happen! Arrange the coals in your grill after.

Step #5: Manage Your Grilling

Now you can start grilling! Ideally, you should never leave your food unattended while grilling. Even the best yakitori grill will have some hot spots, and you want your meat to be done evenly. Flip the skewers every now and then to secure doneness on both sides.

Step #6: Season Your Meat

Before taking them off the coals, make sure you season your meat with some salt as you flip them. It’s also a good idea to start basting them with tare at this point!

Step #7: Cool Off the Coals

Put your grilled yakitori in a separate container and start cooling off your coals. You can reuse the rest of the binchotan later. Now, congratulations is in order — you’ve made some yakitori!

Can I Use Other Chicken Parts for Yakitori?

Definitely! Yes, you can use other chicken parts for yakitori. You can use chicken breasts, tenders, skin, wings, tails, cartilage, hearts, livers, and even gizzards. We used chicken thighs for this recipe, but it’s completely up to you how you’d like to prepare and cook your yakitori!

Can I Use Other Meats for Yakitori?

Sure! Even Japanese-style restaurants offer a change in pace from time to time. You can go for pork, Korean BBQ, and even beef.

Where Can I Find Yakitori in Japan?

This famous skewered grilled chicken can usually be found at an izakaya, or Japanese-style pubs. Yakitori restaurants also exist! Yakitori is typically paired with beer — and a good time. If you’re looking to replicate the way Japanese people enjoy their yakitori, make sure you throw a barbecue party while you’re at it!

What Else Can I Season Yakitori With?

You can season yakitori with white pepper and salt, tare, or togarashi and lemon. We covered how to make tare above, but togarashi is quite different! It’s made of nori, sesame seeds, sansho, red chili pepper, and ground ginger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about yakitori grill?

Charcoal grills like the yakitori grill are typically flatter on the bottoms and sides. Unlike traditional North American grills, it’s a compact grill that aims to accommodate bincho-tan charcoal. There should be enough depth to stack at least two layers of coals, and the material itself should be made of diatomaceous earth.

What kind of charcoal do you use for yakitori?

For a yakitori grill, you typically use binchotan charcoal! It’s also known as white charcoal, and is an alternative to charcoal briquettes. It’s a type of charcoal that has a high, pure carbon content, to the point where its completely odorless. To best enjoy your yakitori, this is the best charcoal you can get!

How do you use a yakitori charcoal grill?

A yakitori charcoal grill is just like any other charcoal grill! Simply load up the coal before putting on the grates. Light the coals and start grilling your chicken – or other meat and food if you’re up to it.

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023

Posted on August 29, 2021January 23, 2023 by John Bird

Looking for the best smoker grill combination? We’ve got a whole list for you. Find the best equipment for you to smoke, grill, and more in this article!

Love smoking and grilling food? You’re not alone. That’s why a whole new piece of equipment was invented: the smoker grill combo.

But to those new to this kind of smoking equipment, it can get a little overwhelming. How do you start using it, and where do you even get the best one?

That’s where we come in. Today, we’re going to help you out in choosing the best possible smoker grill combo. Are you ready? Let’s get started!

What Is a Smoker Grill Combo?

A smoker grill combo is a type of multi-purpose cooker than can grill, bake, sear, smoke, and roast. Not familiar with the term? Well, a griller may know it as barrel smokers, horizontal smokers, or pipe smokers.

Our Top 15 Picks for the Best Smoker Grill Combos

01 Kamado Joe Big Joe III Smoker Grill Combo – Best Overall

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 11

Features:

Built with ceramic and heavy-duty galvanized steel
Is a rolling smoker grill cart with locking wheels
Has a multi-level, half-moon design
Has a Kontrol Tower Top Vent for air maintenance
Comes with an air lift hinge

What We Love About It:

Cook with versatility with the Kamado Joe Smoker Grill Combo. It has three tiers for you to divide and conquer the food you want to smoke, grill, or sear. Cook them at various temperatures, all at once. You can have more food ready in no time at all with the best smoker grill combo!

And yup, we promise the best flavor possible, too. The Sloroller insert allows you to have rolling smoke across your food, perfect for low and slow cooking. Every bit of flavor is enhanced!

The ceramic grates and heavy-duty galvanized steel makes sure this product lasts long in your hands, no matter what. You can roll it around your backyard with no worries, too — it has locking wheels for your convenience.

Worried about usability? Cast those worries aside! The air lift hinge on the dome of this combo grill reduces the weight of what you would assume to be a heavy lid. Lift the lid with ease as you cook.

Plus, you don’t have to fret about airflow maintenance. There’s a Kontrol Tower Top Vent for the best possible temperature control.

There’s a removable charcoal basket in this grill and smoker combination, too. Clean-up will be a sure breeze!

02 PIT BOSS Wood Pellet and Gas Combo Grill – Best Value

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Features:

Supports wood pellet fuel and propane gas
Has a wide temperature range, from 150 to 800 degrees Fahrenheit
Eight-in-one versatility that can grill, smoke, roast, bake, braise, barbecue, char, and sear
Has a wide cooking space for all your food
Inclusive of two meat probes

What We Love About It:

With more than 1200 square inches of cooking space, you’ll never get bored of the PIT BOSS Wood Pellet and Gas Combo Grill. It’s an innovative piece of equipment that’s handy to have in your backyard!

Aside from the side burner, you have an easy-access handle for this BBQ grill, and three independent burners for the gas. There’s a built-in spice rack, two shelves, and removable tray. The wheels lock for your convenience, plus a solid bottom shelf for storage.

Slow-cook as much as you like with the wide temperature control, or grill your food fast and hot. You have the temperature range of 150 degrees to 480 degrees Fahrenheit! You can spread out all the food you need on the amount of cooking space PIT BOSS gives.

Smoke and grill at your own pace — or bake, braise, barbecue, char, and sear instead. There are two meat probes included as well so you can ensure proper internal temperature!

03 Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 – Wood Pellet Grill – Best Budget

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Features:

Can accommodate 4 chickens, 5 rib racks, and 24 burgers
All-original wood pellet grill that ensures enhanced flavors
Comes with rugged all-terrain wheels for your backyard
With a Digital Pro Controller and Advanced Grilling Logic for guaranteed precision grilling
Boasts 6-in-1 versatility for cooking: it grills, smokes, bakes, roasts, braises, and barbecues everything to perfection

What We Love About It:

Looking for that good firewood-enhanced flavor in your food? Look no further than the Traeger Grills Pro Series 22, the wood pellet grill that meets all your needs.

It has enough space for about four whole chickens, five racks of ribs, and twenty-four burgers! You can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and barbecue as much as you need. It’s not just grilling that this wood pellet grill can do.

However, we know that a lot of people have temperature concerns. Cast those worries away with this pellet smoker grill combo! They offer reliable, consistent results with the Digital Pro Controller. Adjust the temperature the way you want with this pellet grill smoker, and let the smoke flavor enhance your meats.

The entire pellet grill and smoker is user-friendly, too! There are dual meat probes to check for the internal temperature, and it has rugged wheels to adjust to your backyard terrain. The temperature is also versatile for both slow cooking and fast grilling!

Get your very own pellet grill smoker today with Taeger Grills. You won’t regret it!

04 Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo

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Features:

With five chrome-plated cooking grates
Has a total of 1382 square inches of cooking surface
Boasts a body made out of heavy-gauge steel
With cool-touch handles and spring lids for user-friendliness
With a stainless temperature gauge and oversized steel wheels

What We Love About It:

You can expand your culinary horizons with the Dyna-Glo Signature Series Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo. This charcoal grill will give you the best, classic smokehouse flavor! This multifunctional grill can handle all the meats you can handle, with five chrome-plated cooking grates.

While charcoal grilling coaxes out the best flavors in your chosen meats, you can smoke sausages with the pre-installed sausage hooks. Access your food safely with cool-touch handles and spring lids, too! The entire cooking experience is versatile and flexible for your convenience.

Aside from all these perks, clean-up is also a breeze. The removable offset charcoal grate and ash pan is easy to wash and put back. The analog temperature gauge has indicators for the best temperatures for grilling and smoking, too!

05 SUNLIFER Portable Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill

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Features:

Space-saving compact and portable barbecue smoker and grill combo
Is multi-purpose and ideal for smoking, baking, braising, roasting, and searing
Comes with two barbecue grills for simultaneous grilling
With a water smoker and grill combo for moist, flavored meat
With two access panels to add wood pellets and wood chips

What We Love About It:

Need something you can transport anywhere, anytime? The SUNLIFER Portable Charcoal Grill fulfills just that. Its main perk is its’ space-saving, portable body that can easily fit in the trunk of your car!

However, don’t let its size fool you. You have a multi-purpose smoker and grill combo in your hands, with two barbecue grills that totals up to 453 square inches of cooking space. There’s an easy-to-use water smoker, too, with space for wood pellets and wood chips — for that enhanced smoky flavor we all love.

Plus, you can grill simultaneously, so this best smoker and grill combo doesn’t just save space, but time as well!

As a combination grill, the SUNLIFER is the one you want for your camping or picnic needs.

06 Masterbuilt Gravity Series Digital Charcoal Smoker Grill Combos

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Features:

Has fast heating with 700 degrees Fahrenheit reached in 14 minutes
With a flat-top griddle insert, cast-iron cooking grates, and two porcelain-coated cast-iron smoking racks
Comes with a DigitalFan to handle heat fluctuations
With a digital control panel that handles temperature and cooking time with a smart device control
Includes a built-in temperature gauge and meat probe thermometer for reliable, consistent results

What We Love About It:

If you want a charcoal grill that heats and cooks meat fast, this Masterbuilt Gravity Series Digital Charcoal Griddle is the one for you. It’s also our top pick if you want convenience in your hands!

In just eight minutes, you can reach up to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you want your meat to come off the grill gates quick, this is your the grill smoker combo that you should choose.

The griddle insert, cooking grates, and porcelain-coated cast-iron smoking racks sums up to 800 inches of cooking space. You’ll be able to cook, smoke, grill, and sear all the meats you want! It maintains temperature well with the DigitalFan, so there’s little to no fluctuations for your cooking.

At the same time, the digital control panel is there for your smart device. Control how you cook with WiFi or Bluetooth! The temperature and cook time is completely up to you, too.

In addition to all of that, a built-in temperature gauge and meat probe is there for you to retain the moisture and flavor of the meat. It’s one of the most innovative and convenient charcoal smoker and grill combos out there, so make sure to get one of your own!

07 Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Smoker Grill Combo

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Features:

Automatically maintain your temperature with new WIFI and Bluetooth controls
Comes with four probe ports and four meat probes
Comes with temperatures ranging from 160 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Includes a dial for smoke control and Slide and Grill technology
With a patented ash cleaning system

What We Love About It:

This Camp Chef Pellet Smoker Grill Combo is one of the best picks for convenience right in your backyard. Smoke and grill in one place with its wood pellet grills – and automatically control everything with WiFi and Bluetooth controls!

Aside from the new, innovative technology it employs, this grill and smoker combo unit doesn’t shy away from accessories. It comes with four probe ports and four meat probes, just to ensure that your meat is the juiciest, most flavorful one out there.

With the Camp Chef Smoker Grill Combo, the temperature ranges from 160 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Slide and Grill technology allows for direct flame cooking up to 650 degrees. There’s a dial for smoke control so the grill body is up to your customization, too!

Even with all these cooking innovations, there’s still more to this pellet grill smoker. There’s a patented ash cleaning system that makes clean-up easier for you, too. This combination grill is one of the best out there, so if a wood pellet smoker and grill combo is up your alley, this Camp Chef is the one to pick!

08 Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 18

Features:

With porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, chrome-plated warming rack, and offset smoker
Up to 811 square inches of cooking surface
With an offset smoker that circulates smoke around easily
Includes a two-level heigh-adjustable charcoal pan
Comes with a lid-mounted thermometer gauge, side burner, and tables for extra storage space

What We Love About It:

The best grilled and smoked meats are possible through the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo. Grill, smoke, barbecue, and sear steaks easily! Each part of this smoker combo unit has high-quality material. Porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and chrome-plated warming racks are part of this grill and smoker combo!

With up to 811 square inches of cooking surface, you can simultaneously grill and smoke as much meat as you want. The offset smoker allows you to circulate smoke easily, with an air vent that stokes the fire to your liking. Plus, a side door is there for you to scoop in charcoal easily and remove ash during clean-up.

Looking for better heat control? Look no further. The adjustable pans on this grill and smoker combo is here to help you out. Monitor your cooking temperature as much as you want with the lid-mounted thermometer gauge.

This charcoal grill is the go-to for those looking to have enough space as well! It has a bottom shelf and front and side tables for all your accessories, spices, and grilling tools.

09 Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet and Smoker Combo

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 19

Features:

One-stack design fusion fuel for gas grilling or using wood pellets
Has convenient and innovative temperature control and monitoring through WiFi and Bluetooth
Has temperatures ranging from 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit
Comes with three meat probes, storage box, pellet hopper, grilling racks, and tank holder
Has an easy grease and ash pull-out cleaning system

What We Love About It:

Looking for a compact, powerful gas grill smoker combo? This pellet and gas BBQ grill is one of the best you can get! It features a one-stack design for the fusion fuel it boasts. Use it for gas grilling or with wood pellets — it’s all up to you.

The customization you get is top-notch as well. You can conveniently monitor and and control you temperature through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. With the temperature ranging from 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit, you can either do slow-cooking or fast grilling with this grill and smoker combo.

Three meat probes allow you to have an accurate reading of internal temperature. You can store all your spices and seasonings with the storage box, too!

Clean up the best you can with the easy grease and ash pull-out cleaning system. The best smoker and grill combo has it all, and the Lifetime Gas Grill Smoker Combo fits the bill.

10 Wide Cooking Area: Cuisinart Vertical Propane Grill Smoker Combo

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 20

Features:

Has a wide cooking area to accommodate everything from meats to vegetables
Has four dishwasher-safe, stainless steel cooking racks and porcelain-coated steel tray
With a built-in, easy-to-read thermometer
Includes an adjustable gas supply and smoke control
With a seal-tight twist lock door and handle for security

What We Love About It:

It’s time to get the Cuisinart Grill Smoker Combo! This vertical propane grill smoker combo is a compact but powerful unit for your backyard. Don’t be fooled by its compact size — it has a wide cooking area for everything you need grilled, from hot dogs to steaks.

You won’t have any problems in maintaining and regulating heat. There’s a built-in, easy-to-read thermometer for you to monitor and maintain the temperature to your needs, plus an adjustable gas supply for heating your grilling space the way you want it to.

With the smoker box, you have two doors and a rear vent to control the amount of heat and smoke. Close and open everything easily — you won’t have a problem with securing the doors with the seal-tight twist-lock door and handle.

Clean-up has never been easier with four dishwasher-safe steel cooking racks, either. No need for hand-washing on this one, unlike other smoker combos! Easily remove everything and pop them into the dishwasher.

11 Grills Wood: Z-Grills Pellet Grills with Auto Temperature Control

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 21

Features:

An eight-in-one multipurpose best grill smoker combo
With PID technology for consistent temperature and results from the cooking chamber
Features 452 square inches of cooking area
Made with sturdy steel construction and high-temperature powder coating — making it built to last

What We Love About It:

The Z-Grills Wood Pellet Grill is the best smoker grill combo for small families or backyards without sacrificing power. It has eight purposes in one: with this grill and smoker, you can bake, roast, braise, sear, char-grill, barbecue, smoke, and grill all in one place!

Got a lot of meat? That should be no problem. The 572 square inches of cooking area is more than enough grilling space for everything you need to have cooked. Getting to grilling isn’t hard, either — this best smoker grill is easy to assemble and move around!

If you’re tired of getting inconsistent results with your meat, this is the best grill smoker combo to pick. It incorporates PID technology to keep you from the guesswork. Now, you can have accurate and consistent control over your temperature, and as a result, over your meat, too!

You can get accurate temperatures from 180 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, with a fire access door that allows direct flame to reach 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Z-Grills is convenient, too — you can get the wood fire flavor you crave while having the convenience of having a gas grill as well.

Another perk? Unlike other pellet grills, you know this unit is built to last. Just take a look at is heavy-duty steel construction!

The Z-Grills Wood Pellet Grill may be your go-to as the best possible BBQ grill and smoker on the market. Check it out today — you won’t regret it.

12 Big Bad Barrel Pit Drum 5-in-One Grill and Smoker

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 22

Features:

Multi-functional and multi-purpose cooking chamber where you can grill and smoke meats simultaneously
Is portable and can be assembled and dismantled easily for easy storage and transport
Comes with six stainless steel hooks, three utensils, charcoal pit, grill grate, and grilling rack
Consistently uses up to 225 degrees Fahrenheit for smoking, with an adjustable vent
Made with durable materials, so you know this best smoker grill combo can last a while!

What We Love About It:

This pit barrel cooker stands out from the rest. With the size of the cooking area of the Big Bad Joe Pit Drum, you can grill just about everything.

But it’s not just grilling that we’ve got covered. This multi-function pit barrel can transform into a table, independent fire pit, barbecue pit and smoker box. It has the hooks you need to smoke anything you’d like!

With this two-piece pit barrel cooker, you can bring the party anywhere, anytime. It can easily be disassembled, assembled, and transported just about everywhere you’d like!

Another perk? This Big Bad Pit Barrel Cooker comes with all the accessories you could ever need from smoker combos. Enjoy cooking, grilling, and smoking with stainless steel hooks, utensils, and grilling racks, too.

You can smoke everything up to 225 degrees — just the right temperature that any pit barrel cooker has for smoking.

13 Captiva Designs 28-Inch Charcoal Grill and Smoker

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 23

Features:

With an offset smoker box seamlessly attached to the unit
Made with thick metal iron
With acid-proof, temperature-resistant enamel material
Includes an adjustable chimney and air vent
With detachable front frame for convenient grilling and smoking

What We Love About It:

If versatility is your priority, you won’t go wrong with the Captiva Designs Charcoal Grill and Smoker. The cooking surface is 512 square inches all in all, allowing you to have the flexibility you need to smoke and grill all your meats.

It also comes with all the bonus perks you’d ever want in any grill and smoker. It has an adjustable chimney and air vent so you can adjust the flow of smoke at any moment. You’ll have your desired flavor after grilling!

The durability is also something to boast in this grill and smoker combo. Everything from the grill grate and charcoal pan to the grill cover is made of acid-proof, temperature-resistant enamel. It can withstand general wear and tear and so much more — you know it’ll be in your care for a long time!

Looking for user-friendliness? We’ve got that, too. The front frame is detachable for your convenience. Clean-up is also easier with the grill cover!

14 Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Smoker, Roaster, and Grill

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 24

Features:

Multifunctional unit that allows you to smoke, roast and grill in one place
Comes with TRU-infrared technology that gives consistent, flavorful meat
Evenly cooks meat
Has a cooking surface of 180 square inches and 25 lbs of space for roasting
Includes a smoker box for added flavor

What We Love About It:

Need something you know you can rely on? It’s time to open up the grill grate of the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Smoker, Roaster, and Grill. Reliability is the name of the game with its TRU-Infrared technology!

You can get the most consistent, flavorful meats with this unit. Cook as much as you like with a cooking surface of 180 square inches, and roast some meat with the 25 lbs of space. There’s an added smoker box for added flavor, too!

If you’re bored of the usual gas grill and need to change things up, this may be the smoker, grilling, and roaster for you.

15 PK Grills Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker Combo

The 15 Best Smoker Grill Combo for 2023 25

Features:

Comes in a unique capsule-shaped construction with four vents
Construction makes it easy to slow-cook or do fast grilling
Includes rust-proof, durable, and lightweight aluminum grills and side burner
Has a cooking surface of 300 square inches for all the meat you’ve got
Is portable and can fold down easily for easy transportation

What We Love About It:

If you need something portable without sacrificing any of the features that the best smoker grill combo can have, you won’t go wrong with the PK Grills Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker Combo.

Let’s talk about the portability first. You want something that can grill beyond your backyard — you’ve got it with this unit. You don’t have to go through the hassle of assembling and disassembling everything, either. The PK Grills smoker grill combo is foldable and easy to transport!

We know, we know; it can get worrying when something’s foldable. How do you know it’s even durable? But that worry doesn’t matter with the PK Grills unit. It boasts rust-proof, durable, and lightweight aluminum grills!

Plus, the unique capsule construction is also there with four vents. You can control the airflow and cooking temperature as you like! With over 300 square inches for its cooking surface, you can cook as much as you want.

Slow-cook or do your grilling hot and fast. Whatever the case, you can rely on this grill and smoker to do the job!

Types of Smoker Grill Combinations

There are so many smoker grill combos out there that it can get confusing. We prepared a short guide for you to distinguish them from one another:

#1 Kamados

Kamado grills are distinct with their egg-shaped form and ceramic material. Due to the ceramic walls, these grill and smoker combo can hold heat well. It helps keep moisture in the meat, resulting in a juicier, richer flavor.

While kamado grills result in incredible food, there is a learning curve required in operating kamados. You have to adjust the vents every now and then of the cooking chamber. If you want a higher temperature, you have to open the vents to let more oxygen in, and partially close it if you want lower temperature control.

#2 Pellet Smoker Grill Combos

A pellet grill functions based on its name: wood pellets. A wood grill uses wood pellets and a system of fans to grill, smoke, braise, and bake food. Simply add the pellets to the pellet hopper and let the magic happen as your smoke your food.

The result is enjoyable food imbued with deep flavors. There’s no risk of fire flare-ups, so there’s no risk of blackened or burnt food, either!

#3 Gravity-Fed Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo

This smoker grill combo is quite new to the game, but it doesn’t make it any less impressive. It can be filled with either charcoal or pellets, and operates just like your typical pellet grill.

#4 Drum Smoker Grill Combo

These are simple smoker grills made from oil drums, with adjustable grates. This grill smoker combo is convenient and gives you great food in the end!

#5 Traditional Style Charcoal Gas Grills and Smokers

These barrel-shaped gas grill smoker combo can use either gas or fuel. They’re perfect for high heat grilling, with a firebox offset smoker that can smoke the food the way you want.

Types of Fuel Smoker Grill Combos Use

#1 Charcoal

Charcoal is the most popular fuel for smoking and grilling, and we understand why. It produces little smoke, and requires little to no preparation before use. Plus, you can even reuse it after you’re done smoking and grilling your food!

However, it is one of the messiest fuels, and requires some clean-up.

#2 Wood Pellets

These are clean to use fuel sources with the best flavors possible. There’s not as much clean-up in comparison to charcoal, but there would still be some ash leftover.

#3 Wood Logs

Wood logs are a little harder to control, but they also give great flavor to your food. They have a clean, authentic taste.

#4 Gas

Gas is another common type of fuel for smoking and grilling. Temperature control is much easier, along with clean-up. There’s practically no mess to deal with! However, it imparts no flavor at all, so you’ll have to rely on good meat and good seasoning.

#5 Electric

Just like gas, electric fuel allows you to have better temperature control, and easier clean-up. However, it doesn’t impart any flavor either, so you’d have to settle for the taste!

What to Look For in a Smoker Grill Combo

#1 Wide Temperature Range

You want something that doesn’t just smoke and grill, but can also sear your food. Plus, you’ll want something that grill your food fast! You want something that can cook your food fully, while giving it some time for slow, low cooking.

#2 Material and Durability

With the constant high temperatures, you want something that can withstand it as much as possible. You want something that won’t break easily, so make sure that the material can withstand general wear and tear as well — especially if you plan on leaving your smoker grill combo outside.

Get something that doesn’t easily rust or corrode, like heavy gauge steel.

Look for a stable base and sturdy wheels as well. You want something that can stand on its own in the long-term, and wheels that are stable to move around outdoors.

#3 Ease of Clean-up

You want something that’s easy to clean and maintain — especially if you’re going to be smoking and grilling food a lot. The constant use will get to the unit, so you want something that has grease management systems and removable, washable ash pans.

Remember to keep your smoke grill combo clean no matter what to avoid the build-up of bacteria!

#4 Value for Price

We all want something good, but we also have to count in the fact that our wallets aren’t endless. You want something that has value for its price!

Think of something good for the long-term and suits your needs the most.

#5 Stability

Aside from a wide temperature range, you want to be able to control heat properly. Maintaining heat is vital to the juiciness and flavor of the meat you’ve got!

With some smoker grill combos, you have to open and close multiple vents or adjust shelves. In contrast, electric and gas ones would only require a dial or a push of a button or two.

However, you’ll have to sacrifice some flavor for the convenience of temperature control. Look for additional accessories, such as ash catchers and drip pans. Thermometers, thermostats, and anything that adjusts the airflow and temperature are also good buys.

Benefits of a Smoker Grill Combo

Save Cooking Space in Your Kitchen

Running out of indoor cooking surfaces? Combo grills can be the answer. Aside from saving on cooking space in your kitchen, the best smoker grill combo units can also save space outdoors.

Instead of having two different appliances for smoking and grilling, a smoker grill combo allows you to have a grill and smoker in one place. It has more versatility, too!

Have Healthier Food

Now, we’re not health nuts, but we all know constantly frying your food is not good for your health.

Grilled food has less fat, and the way of cooking preserves the nutrients in the food. It brings you and the rest of the family outdoors, too! Bond with them while having the healthiest food possible.

Save Electricity

Unless you’re using an electric smoker grill combo, you save more electricity in the long run. You have flavorful food without adding to your electricity bill!

Why Choose a Smoker Grill Combo?

Honestly, just look at the benefits we stated above. We believe it’s convincing enough!

But the versatility is one benefit we can’t exaggerate.

Grill food on one side, and smoke some on the other. Yes, that’s possible with a smoker grill combo! You can sear your food after, too.

All in all, you have a safe, space-saving, and healthier way to cook your food. Why should you not go for it?

Downsides of a Smoker Grill Combo

If there’s any downside, it’s the lack of enough temperature control for many units. A lot of them require adjustments in the vents and grates. Or maybe they don’t have the temperature range necessary to brown and caramelize your meats.

Whatever the case, there are downsides to getting grill smoker combos. Think about this before getting your own unit!

Grilling Accessories You Can Buy

#1 Camp Chef BBQ Grill Sear Box

The Camp Chef BBQ Grill Sear Box is a perfect accessory for everything you want grilled and smoked. Get that smoky flavor you want with this sear box!

With the sear box cooking surface at 180 square inches, it’s easy to cook just about anything on the grill grates. The sear box itself is made of stainless steel, with enamel-coated cast iron grill grates, heat diffuser plates, and drip tray.

Get the Camp Chef BBQ Grill Sear Box for the best possible convenience while grilling!

#2 Shizzo Grill Basket Value Set

Do you want all the accessories you could ever need for your grill smoker combo? The Shizzo Grill Basket Value Set is here for you. It includes a grill basket, basting brush, grilling gloves, and even a portable case! Yup, you can take these accessories with you if you’re traveling with your grilling unit.

Get perfectly grilled vegetables, meats, and fishes with the grill basket. We can guarantee you an even grill! Aside from an even grill, the grill basket also features a long handle for your convenience. Plus, it also has a secure locking mechanism that allows you to safely flip your grilled food — no food waste will happen here!

The large and deep grilling tray allows you to have all the food you’d like in one space. Grill different kinds of food at the same time! It saves space and time for you easily.

Plus, it’s lightweight, durable, and easy-to-clean. It’s made with the highest quality of stainless steel that won’t just last you long, but it’s also light and easy to handle. You don’t have to go through any kind of hassle to handle this basket value set.

It’s rust-free, too. In addition, it’s also dishwasher-safe! You don’t have to go through the hassle of hand-washing everything — you can just pop it in the dishwasher after use.

#3 Weber Rapidfire Charcoal Chimney Starter

Need hot coals for cooking? The Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter has you covered. It’s durable, ergonomic, and comes with a specialized cone-shaped grate. Fill it in, light it up, and pour the hot coals into your grill.

The two-handle design allows you to have more control as you pour the hot coals. You don’t have to worry about the hassle of getting your coals hot enough! There’s also a large heat shield that protects you from the high temperatures.

Plus, it has a compact design. If you have smaller grills, it’ll be accommodated easily!

You can grill faster with Weber today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best all-around grill and smoker?

Our top pick is a charcoal smoker: the Kamado Joe Big Joe III. Out of the list of the best smoker grill combos, this charcoal smoker ticked all of the boxes!

Can you still grill on a pellet smoker?

Yes, you can — if it’s a pellet smoker grill combo. A pellet grill and smoker can do a lot of functions at once!

What is the point of the best smoker grill combo?

The entire point of a smoker grill is to smoke and grill at the same time — letting the cooking process become more efficient and space-saving.

Green Mussels vs Black Mussels: The Differences Will Surprise You!

Posted on August 28, 2021August 15, 2022 by John Bird

Mussels are one of the most popular appetizers at a fancy dinner. When given a choice, most people choose black mussels since these are the kind they are most familiar with.

It helps as black mussels are pretty affordable too! But have you ever wondered about the differences between green mussels vs black mussels?

This article will examine a couple of key differences between these two kinds of mussels. But that’s not all! We’ll also look at how you can cook mussels, and how you can differentiate between mussels, clams, and oysters.

If you want to learn a little more about seafood, you’ve come to the right place!

What are Mussels?

Mussels are a kind of seafood; they are mollusks with a split shell similar to oysters, scallops, and clams. They can live in both saltwater and freshwater, so mussels are pretty widely available. Mussels are a great source of lean proteins, as well as minerals, vitamins, and micronutrients.

Best of all, they are a prime source of iron and contain very little fat or carbs. They are rich in vitamin B12 and encourage the production of red blood cells and keep nerve cells healthy.

Are mussels healthy? All these reasons make them a lot more than a fancy dish on a dinner date─ mussels are super healthy and a great way to lose weight.

Types of Mussels:

There are a couple of different types of mussels. You can find these different kinds based on where you live and the season of the year. These include:

Black mussels: They are the most common kind of mussels and are pretty small; about 2.5 inches in length. Moreover, they have a mild and light flavor.
Mediterranean mussels: These mussels are large and plump and are commonly found in summer and early fall.
Green mussels: Also known as New Zealand mussels, they are very large and have a slightly intense flavor. As their name suggests, they are cultivated in New Zealand and not as easily available as black mussels.
Blue mussels: They are much smaller than Mediterranean mussels and are sometimes called blue-lipped mussels. In terms of flavor, they are extremely intense and rich.

How are Mussels Different from Other Kinds of Seafood?

Seafood newbies often get confused between mussels, clams, and oysters since they are all bivalve mollusks. Some people even get de-shelled mussels and shrimp mixed up! However, there are a couple of differences among them:

Mussels vs. Clams:

The main difference between clam and mussel lies in where they can be found. Mussels can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater. However, clams can only live in freshwater. Unlike mussels, clams have organs including a heart and circulatory system and parts of a digestive system.

Mussels vs. Oysters:

Mussels have a smooth shell with elongated ends and an oblong shape. However, oyster shells have a dull, rough exterior covered in barnacles. They are also oval-shaped. Oysters are also fleshier and bigger than mussels.

Mussels vs. Scallops:

Scallops burrow under the sand and have one convex shell and one flat shell. Unlike oysters, clams, and mussels, scallops are shucked right after harvest so they don’t stay fresh for long.

Green Mussels vs Black Mussels: How They’re Different

There are a few major ways in which New Zealand mussels vs black mussels differ. Let’s look at green mussels first:

Green or New Zealand mussels are harvested in New Zealand. They are very large, much bigger than blue or black mussels, and also have a meatier texture. On average, they are about 6-inches in length, which also contributes to their price tag.

These mussels are chewy and firm, yet tender when steamed or pan-fried. They aren’t very intense in flavor and can be a little sweet.

Green mussel’s nutrition profile is quite impressive; they contain antioxidants, omega-3-fatty acids, zinc, iron, and selenium.

On the other hand, black mussels can be found and harvested in many different countries, so they are available everywhere. This makes them very affordable all year round.

They are 2.5 inches long, so are quite small. They look similar to blue mussels but their dark color identifies them as black shell seafood. Furthermore, they have a very strong and intense flavor which many seafood lovers enjoy.

Like green mussels, they are soft and tender. However, they are less chewy when compared to green mussels. You can find them fresh in fish markets or frozen in grocery stores.

Cooking Mussels

Preparing mussels is pretty easy, especially if you know what you’re doing.

Steaming:

The most common and foolproof way to cook mussels is to steam them. If you aren’t sure how to cook green mussels, this is the way to go as it preserves the texture and flavor. When steamed in a small amount of water, with additions like aromatics, white wine or beer, and butter the mussels remain tender and chewy.

Also, if this liquid is cooked down first before steaming, the mussels are infused with flavor. They also release liquid as they steam which drips into the cooking liquid to form a rich broth that you can eat with bread or on its own.

Pan Roasting:

This is another cool way to prepare mussels. Heat a cast-iron skillet on high and add a little. Add your mussels and season with salt and pepper; tossing and stirring until the shell opens. Remove quickly to avoid overcooking and add a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Grilling:

Including mussels on your BBQ is always a refreshing change from heavy meat. Simply heat your grill until hot, then place the mussels on your cooking grate. Grill until they open and serve right away.

You may also like: How to cook frozen steak on grill

Any Questions?

Below you will find answers to questions that are often asked about mussels.

01. What Do Mussels Taste Like?

Mussels have a very faint hint of the ocean in terms of taste. The meatiness reminds many people of chicken, but mushrooms are a better comparison. They are rather sweet with no ‘fish’ flavors.

02. Are Mussels Good for a Healthy Diet?

Mussels have no carbs and are a good source of protein and minerals. When steamed, they are quite healthy and good for you.

03. Why are My Mussels Slimy?

Slimy mussels are an indicator of stale mollusks that were caught a long time ago. To avoid this issue, make sure to buy freshly caught mussels from an open market.

04. Can I Eat the Black Stuff in Mussels?

Back or green things inside mussels are the plankton and algae that the mussel did not yet digest. While they aren’t harmful, they don’t taste good. So it is best to remove them while cleaning the mussels, or before serving.

05. Why Won’t My Mussels Open after Cooking?

If your mussels remain closed even after steaming or grilling, this is a sign they are no good. These mussels have been dead for a while, so eating them will cause serious food poisoning and even infectious diseases.

Final Say

Regardless of which side you fall in the green mussels vs. black mussels debate, there’s no doubt they are both great in their own way. For a regular meal, black mussels are a great option as you can find them anywhere and they are quite affordable. For a treat, do try green mussels at least once ─ they are simply spectacular!

Sushi V Sashimi V Nigiri: What’s the Difference?

Posted on July 29, 2021January 29, 2023 by John Bird

It’s easy to get confused between sushi, sashimi, and nigiri. That’s why we’re here to clear things up for you! Know what you’re eating and enjoy it more with this article.

If you love Japanese cuisine as much as I do, you’ve eaten sushi, sashimi, and nigiri — sometimes all at the same time! The thing is, it’s easy to get confused with the three.

If you’re planning to make some sushi, sashimi, or nigiri and want to get your terms and recipes right, you’re at the perfect place. We point out each unique characteristic of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri for you in this article!

What is Sushi?

Sushi is one of the most popular Japanese cuisine out there. If you’ve been eating sushi for a while, you know its ingredients. Sushi is done with prepared vinegared rice, sugar, salt, vegetables, and fish.

Apart from these main ingredients, sushi also involves popular fish toppings, among pickled ginger, radish, and wasabi. Soy sauce is also popular in eating this delicious treat!

How Is Sushi Prepared?

Normally, most sushi first timers will experience fast-food sushi, but the good sushi out there is prepared by a sushi chef.

Sushi involves a spread of nori or seaweed onto a bamboo mat made for rolling the sushi. Sushi rice is spread onto the nori, and a groove is placed onto the center. Thin slices of vegetables, fresh fish, imitation crab, and even fruit — for that tangy flavor! — are placed onto the groove.

The bamboo mat is used to roll the sushi into place before being sliced into pieces. Sushi is served raw, with fresh slices of pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi to garnish.

What is Sashimi?

Sashimi refers to the popular Japanese dish typically involving thinly sliced raw fish. However, other meats can also be used. Sashimi is shaped differently according to the ingredient used. Flat, diagonal, and cube slices can be used.

While fresh, raw fish is usually used in sashimi, there are sashimi dishes out there that use beef, pork, and chicken. And while the tradition is to serve sashimi raw in a Japanese restaurant, some meats will be braised, seared or boiled for flavor or texture.

When sashimi-grade fish is served in a Japanese restaurant, it’s typically eaten with shredded daikon radish, shiso leaves, soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi.

What is Nigiri?

Nigiri translates to “two fingers” which is the size of the oval mounds and hand-pressed fish, served raw, seared, or cooked.

Nigiri and sashimi are different, but sushi and nigiri are not far from one another! Nigiri is actually a type of sushi, made with oval-shaped rice and a thin slice of the best fish on top. Nigiri sushi is typically molded by hand, with thin slices of fish hand-pressed on top.

Wasabi, scallions, and pickled ginger are common garnishes in nigiri.

Sushi V Sashimi V Nigiri: What’s the Difference?

	Sushi	Sashimi	Nigiri
Has rice	Yes	No	Yes
Includes raw ingredients	Yes	Yes	Yes
Is hand-pressed	No	No	Yes

Sashimi VS Sushi

Sushi refers to any dish that invovles vinegar rice, vegetables, fish, pickled ginger, and soy sauce. Sashimi, meanwhile, only refers to raw fish or meat, and doesn’t involve the vinegared rice at all.

Nigiri VS Sushi

Sushi isn’t that far from nigiri! In fact, nigiri is a type of sushi. With nigiri vs sushi, the only difference is the shape and how it’s made. In a sushi restaurant, sushi could refer to any dish made with vinegared rice, vegetables, fish, pickled ginger, and soy sauce.

Sushi menus could include anything from sushi rolls to chirashi. Nigiri can be found in those menus as nigirizushi. Nigiri translates to “two fingers,” the size of each portion, and as hand-pressed sushi — and that makes all the difference. Nigiri is hand-pressed oval mounds of rice, sized around two fingers, with sliced fish pressed on top.

Sashimi Nigiri Comparison

Nigiri VS sashimi — what is actually the difference? If raw, cooked or seared nigiri simply refers to hand-pressed vinegared rice and fresh fish, sashimi is a whole different ball game. Sashimi usually only involves raw meat and does not contain vinegared rice.

While usually sashimi-grade fish is used, you can find raw meat involved in sashimi in any sushi menu.

What Fish Is Used in Sushi, Nigiri and Sashimi?

The commonly-used fish in sushi, nigiri and sashimi are the following:

Tuna
Japanese amberjack
Salmon
Mackerel
Snapper
Yellowtail

Usually, when ordering sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, the most valuable cut is the toro, or the fatty slices. Sometimes, squid, scallops, pierced meat, and sea urchin are also used among fish in sashimi, nigiri, and sushi.

Types of Sushi, Sashimi, and Nigiri

Types of Sushi Dishes

1. Chirashizushi

This Japanese dish is also known as scattered sushi! Unlike the popular sushi roll, chirashizushi comes in a bowl. The rice portion is placed first before having toppings of high quality fish and vegetable garnishes.

2. Inarizushi

Love sushi and tofu? The inarizushi is the must-try for you. A pouch of fried tofu is filled to the brim with sushi rice, sometimes combined with omelette.

3. Makizushi or maki sushi

Maki sushi or makizushi is another popular variant of sushi. With the help of a bamboo mat, rice, meat, fish, and vegetables are rolled together in nori. Occasionally, instead of nori, omelette, shiso leaves, soy paper, or cucumber is used to wrap it as well.

There are many variation to the makizushi. Some are fried, thinly sliced, or large and cone-shaped. In the sushi world, constant innovation for your favorite dish reigns!

4. Narezushi

Narezushi, or matured sushi, is a type of sushi dish which involves fermented sushi. The cooking process is long — often involving up to six months of preparation before the sushi dish can be considered edible.

5. Oshizushi

Oshizushi or pressed sushi is a type of sushi dish where the sushi comes in wooden block molds. The result is bite-sized sushi you can eat together with soy sauce and pickled ginger.

Types of Sashimi

There are many types of sashimi out there, but we’ll cover the top five types of sashimi and the different flavors each one has:

Katsuo (Bonito or Skipjack Tuna)

Better known as katsuo no tataki, this type of sashimi is lightly seared on the outside to give more depth and flavor. The result is a slightly smoky taste you’ll love. It involves chopped green onions, ginger, and ponzu as toppings!

Sake (Salmon)

Sake or salmon are popular fish toppings and ingredients for sashimi, but they’re relatively new to the sashimi scene! It’s sweet, with the added benefit of being packed full of omega-3 acids and fatty goodness. Pair your sake sashimi with lemon and a touch of wasabi.

Maguro (Bluefin Tuna)

Maguro sashimi is iconic in Japanese culture. The fish used is what we know as tuna, and is served in 3 main grades. There are several parts to the fish that can be used for sashimi:

Se-kami – the red, fatty part of the tuna fish
Senaka – part of the red fish
Se-shimo – red and less fatty
Hara-kami ho-toro – the extra fatty part of the fish
Hara-naka chu-toro – the fatty pat of the fish
Hara-shimo – mix of the less fatty part and the red fish

Depending on the sashimi chefs, you may get a mix of these parts of the fish with your sashimi order.

Ahi (Yellowfin tuna)

The yellowfin tuna sashimi is also a popular choice for Japanese food. It’s best paired with rice vinegar, soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Aji (Horse Mackerel)

Best for the early summer season, the aji or horse mackerel sashimi has light, well-balanced flavor you’ll enjoy. Order it at the next sushi restaurant you visit!

Types of Nigiri

Maguro nigiri sushi

It’s best to get the fatty part of this raw fish. This nigiri practically melts in your mouth! It’s a combination of sushi rice and raw fish, plus some garnishes on the side with soy sauce and wasabi to taste.

Ika (Cuttlefish)

Aside from raw and cooked fish, nigiri also makes use of other seafood and meat. Ika is the pure, white flesh of squid, which is chewy and yummy to taste!

Shrimp

Raw prawns and boiled shrimp are also typically used in nigiri dishes. If you don’t feel like eating raw fish, this type of nigiri may be for you.

Unagi (Eel)

Served with a sweet sauce, eel is a popular choice among the Japanese for nigiri. Serve it with soy sauce, daikon radish, and wasabi!

Tamago (Egg)

Yes, eggs can also be used in nigiri! The sweetened, baked egg also has a strip of seaweed to keep it in place.

How to Make Sushi Rolls at Home

Wondering how to make your own sushi rolls at home? We’ve got you. The best sushi can come from your very own kitchen!

The California Roll Recipe

Let’s start by making a popular, regular maki roll: the California maki.

Prepare the rice

You have to make the rice first. To do this, rinse the short-grain rice you’ve prepared before setting it to cook in the rice cooker.

In another bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together. Once the rice has cooked — and it’s shiny and fluffy! — you can pour the rice vinegar mixture over the rice and combine it completely. Let the rice cool and set aside. You’ll be using it as a main ingredient later!

Prepare to roll

Get your sushi mat and place it on the table. Start by getting a sheet of nori or seaweed. Cut the nori in half and lay it down on the mat, rough side up. Use your fingers to add the rice and spread it all throughout the seaweed sheet.

Add masago or orange fish roe to the spread. Flip the sheet.

Add oTher Ingredients

Now’s the time to add your other ingredients onto the california roll! Arrange the mango strips, kani, and cucumber.

Roll, Roll, Roll

Roll the mat by tucking your thumbs underneath it and lifting it. Use your other hand to hold it in place. Continue rolling until you reach the end of the sheet.

Slice Everything and Serve

Press the mat so everything fits and sticks together tightly. Peel away the mat and use a sharp knife to cut the roll into pieces.

Serve with wasabi and soy sauce. If you like, you can add a dollop of cream cheese as topping!

How to Make Nigiri at Home

Prepare the rice

Make at leas two cups of sushi rice for this recipe. To make sushi rice, rinse the rice thoroughly and cook it for twenty minutes in your rice cooker. After, pour a mixture of vinegar, sugar and salt and combine everything in a bowl. After tossing, set it aside to cool.

Cut Your Selected fish

You can use fish, other seafood like shrimp and eel, or even eggs! For this recipe, we’re assuming you’re using the best fresh fish you’ve found. Cut against the grain and make it around 1/4 inches thick.

Form some rice

Nigiri is popular for being hand-pressed, with oval-shaped rice mounds. To form your rice, prepare a small bowl of water. Now, you have to combine the rice with the prepared fish. Lay one piece of fish across your fingers and then a mound of rice on top. Press inward with your two fingers to make sure they both stick together.

Serve and enjoy

Congratulations, you’ve made your very first nigiri! Serve it with some ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce.

How to Make Sashimi at Home

Unlike nigiri and sushi in general, making sashimi is much more straightforward. All you have to do is pick the raw fish you want to use for your sashimi. Personally, with raw fish, I choose salmon: it’s packed with protein, good fat, and is light on the stomach.

Sharpen your knife before you begin cutting your raw fish. When you slice it, be sure to cut it into thin slices, around 1/4 inch thick. It should be rectangular and bite-sized!

You can mix wasabi, soy sauce, and lemon together to make your dipping sauce. Raw fish combines well with this mixture — and you’ll be sure to enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sushi the same as nigiri?

Nigiri vs sushi — are they the same? Well, it’s as close as it can get! Nigiri is a type of sushi. Most sushi places offer nigiri as part of their menus.

What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?

Sashimi chefs typically don’t cook fresh fish at all. Instead, they serve it raw — and as fish or meat alone. Sushi, meanwhile, involves different ingredients.
The traditional sushi roll, for example, involves fish, vegetables, fruit, imitation grab, toasted seaweed, shredded daikon radish, and vinegar rice. Sometimes, it’s even topped with cream cheese!

Why is Sashimi More Expensive Compared to Nigiri?

Sashimi uses the most expensive cuts of fish, which are caught fresh and served right away. Moreover, the fish is not farmed and is of very high quality, making sashimi rather pricey.

Roll vs Hand Roll Sushi: What’s the Difference?

Posted on July 28, 2021January 23, 2023 by John Bird

If you happen to order sushi regularly, something that might have come to your mind is sushi roll vs hand roll. Even though they sound very much the same, they are not!

But what is a sushi roll and what exactly is a hand roll? If you want to know more about the difference between these two and the eBay way to eat sushi, keep on reading!

History of Sushi

Sushi is one of the oldest dishes that can be traced as far back as the 4th century!

The modern sushi that we all know and love looks and tastes nothing like the sushi from that time. Even though we simply assume sushi originated in Japan, China created the first-ever sushi dish.

In China, sushi was a way to keep fresh fish edible for longer. They used to place fresh fish on fermented rice to increase the shelf life. It tasted similar to pickled fish.

This method of preservation happened by accident! Farmers used to bury fish with rice for storage and realized this makes the fish last longer. And that’s how sushi was born!

Since then sushi has gone through an evolution in itself. The sushi that we know now is a product of the 20th century.

The modern sushi roll and hand rolls we are accustomed to eating are not traditional recipes either. That doesn’t mean they are not delicious!

With our fast-paced lifestyle, temaki and maki sushi is a great way to have a nutritious full meal on the go. No wonder it’s so popular in the west!

Rolled Sushi or Maki Sushi

Sushi roll is called “Maki” in Japanese which is short for Makizushi. It’s called Maki because it’s made using a makisu aka bamboo mat. Maki sushi is sushi that looks almost cylindrical and then cut into thin pieces.

Maki sushi is known to originate during the Edo period which was in the 18th century. So it’s a relatively new addition to the sushi family.

The reason why maki sushi became so popular is because of its easy and versatile ingredients. You can use any type of protein or vegetables to make it. This means maki sushi can be enjoyed all year round.

You can make maki sushi with either thin pieces of veggies or thicker pieces to make a bigger roll. Maki sushi contains sushi rice, nori sheets, and fresh fish and veggies.

The seaweed sheet is first laid on the bamboo mat and then a thin layer of seasoned sushi rice is spread on top of it. Then you can add your favorite fillings.

You can add thin cuts of fresh fish or veggies and then use the mat to wrap the sheet into a round roll. When it’s tightly rolled, cut them into smaller 1-inch pieces. Make sure your knife is super sharp or the roll will crumble and break.

Maki sushi is super easy to make at home. You don’t need a lot of skill or knowledge to make a sushi roll.

If you don’t know how to use a bamboo mat, some fun gadgets can do it for you! They might look sketchy but trust us, some of them are very fun to use. I like to use Camp Chef Sushezi as it makes perfectly rolled sushi each time. It’s a lot of fun to do this with kids and family together!

Types of Maki Sushi:

Maki sushi comes in a wide variety of styles so there’s a lot to discover. We are going to mention the most popular ones today!

Hosomaki:

Hosomaki is the smallest-sized sushi and is known for its thin appearance. Hosomaki means small. This type of sushi uses only one filling which is why it’s so thin.

Some of the popular types of hosomaki sushi include:

Kanpyo maki
Kappa maki
Shinko maki
Natto maki
Tekka maki

Futomaki:

Futomaki means thick rolls. This is the polar opposite of hosomaki. You will find a lot of different fillings in futomaki like shrimps, cucumber, crab, eel, tofu, eggs, and a range of vegetables.

The most popular type of futomaki is called ehomaki which is kade using seven different ingredients to represent seven gods of fortune in Japanese culture. This dish is eaten during a festival called Setsubun.

Nakamaki:

The third type of maki sushi is called nakamaki which is an in-between size. It’s not too thick like futomaki and neither too thick like hosomaki. You will find on average three ingredients so it’s very convenient to eat.

Read More: What is Tobiko in Sushi? and What is Masago in Sushi?

Hand Roll/ Temaki Sushi

Hand roll or temaki sushi is casual-style sushi that’s very popular in Japan. It looks cone-like and is wrapped in nori sheets.

You won’t find temaki sushi in formal Japanese restaurants as it’s a very homey dish. While we know sushi for its artistic and skilled style, temaki is the opposite of that. You don’t need any particular skills to make a delicious temaki at home.

Temaki is a very good choice for parties and hangouts as it takes only a few minutes to make. All you have to do is wrap a scoop of seasoned rice in a nori sheet and add your favorite fish and fillings on top. The fillings are called neta in Japan.

You can eat temaki with any type of sauce. We love to mix our fish slices in garlic mayo with a few drops of lemon juice. It’s divine!

Temaki is traditionally eaten with bare hands as it’s more convenient. One thing you are never supposed to do with temaki is letting it sit for hours before eating.

You should enjoy temaki sushi immediately after it’s made. That’s because the nori sheet can turn soggy if it sits for too long.

If you want to make classic temaki at home, here are some fillings ideas to try:

Add radish sprouts with cucumber slices.
Baked salmon tastes good with fresh vegetables.
Avocado slices with scallions and salmon with sesame seeds.
Spicy tuna and radish sprouts.
Crab and Kewpie Japanese Mayonnaise with roasted nori sprinkles.

What is the Difference between Roll and Hand Roll

I think it’s pretty clear by now how different hand rolls and sushi rolls are. Let’s look at some of the key features of maki sushi and temaki sushi.

Sushi Roll:

Sushi roll or Makizushi means something that’s wrapped or coiled.
Sushi rolls contain cooked fish, rice, crab, shrimp, and vegetables.
Maki sushi rolls rarely have raw fish.
The maki rolls are made using a bamboo mat to give the cylindrical shape.
Maki rolls are cut into relatively smaller pieces so that they can be eaten with chopsticks.
Sushi rolls are cut and served in a dish so they can be shared.
Sushi rolls are always wrapped in nori sheets or soy sheets.
Sushi rolls require skill and precision to make them perfectly.
Maki sushi is often found in formal restaurants as it’s a classic dish.
Some of the popular ingredients in maki sushi include mushrooms, omelets, cucumbers, and sakura denbu.

Hand Roll or Temaki:

The name Temaki refers to something with a conical shape.
Hand rolls are much larger than sushi rolls. They are not bite-size pieces. Instead, you get something that resembles a mini burrito.
Hand rolls are made using only hands as tools. You don’t need a bamboo mat for this.
Temaki is usually made with raw fish instead of cooked ones.
A hand roll is not meant to be shared as it’s made for one person only.
Unlike sushi rolls, hand rolls do not require rice to make. Some of them contain only veggies and fish.
You don’t need chopsticks to eat hand rolls. It is eaten with bare hands.
Temaki is a casual food that’s very popular for home parties.
When hand rolls are made at home, it’s made with cooked ingredients like smoked salmon, fried seafood, etc.

Do Hand Rolls Have Sushi Rice?

Hand rolls or temaki contain rice but it’s not always the case. Rice is the main ingredient in classic sushi rolls. Check out the Best Sushi Rice Brands in 2021.

With hand rolls, some contain a generous scoop of rice while others have very little. Some hand rolls have no rice at all. Your hand roll can have only fish and vegetables too.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Hand Roll Mean?

Hand roll or temaki is a taco or a burrito made using seaweed sheets, rice, and fish. The seasoned rice is put on the nori sheet and then wrapped into a cone-like shape.
On top of the rice, fish, veggies, and other toppings are added. It’s a simple and easy food to make and enjoy.

What is a Classic Roll Sushi?

Classic roll sushi is a type of sushi that’s made using a bamboo mat. A seaweed sheet is laid on top of the mat and then a small layer of rice is added. You can add any fillings you want. We love adding seafood to our classic roll.
Then the mat is wrapped to create a cylindrical shape which is then cut into bite-size pieces. Classic sushi rolls are very popular and are enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi paste, and grated ginger.

How Do You Eat Sushi Hand Rolls?

Sushi hand rolls are eaten with bare hands. You don’t need any chopsticks or a fork for it. All you have to do is grab the sushi roll like a burrito and proceed to eat! It’s super convenient especially when you are on the go.

Do You Eat the Seaweed in a Hand Roll?

Of course! Seaweed is delicious when you combine it with rice. It has crispiness that’s very enjoyable to eat. The saltiness of the seaweed balances out the sweetness of mayo and rice.

Are California Sushi Rolls Cooked?

Yes, California sushi rolls use cooked fish and seafood instead of the classic Japanese style. Japanese sushi rolls have raw fish marinated in either mayonnaise or vinegar.
California sushi rolls are a fusion between eastern and western cuisine. It’s not authentic but absolutely delicious!

How Many Pieces in a Sushi Roll?

A standard sushi roll has 6-7 pieces of sushi. The number can vary depending on how long the sushi roll is and how chunky you want your sushi pieces to be.

Is Eating Sushi with Your Hands Rude?

If you are in Japan or a Japanese restaurant, it’s respectful to eat sushi with chopsticks. Japanese people respect their food and culture a lot. So eating sushi with your hands can be perceived as rude.

Takeaway

As the sushi trend is growing every single day, people are inventing fusion versions of maki and temaki.

It’s fun to see so many different varieties of sushi being celebrated with such passion. Whether you want a delicately made sushi roll or a quick-grab hand roll, the options are endless.

We do love our homemade version a lot though. Nothing can beat a freshly made temaki with some wasabi and ginger.

How do you like your sushi? What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

If you are looking for a way to store your maki rolls, check out our article Can You Freeze Sushi.

How Much Ground Coffee Per Cup? Making the Perfect Cuppa Everytime!

Posted on July 28, 2021February 22, 2023 by John Bird

Sounds like a pretty straightforward thing right? Turns out making coffee involves quite a bit of math. And here I thought I won’t have to calculate ever again after grad school!

No worries for you as we have gathered everything you need to know into one bite-size article. So within the next 5 minutes, you will learn how to make up to 12 cups of coffee effortlessly. And yes, you won’t have to calculate a single thing!

Making the Perfect Cup of Coffee: The Golden Ratio

We all have heard of the golden ratio of faces. But did you know that coffee has its own golden ratio too? It’s basically the ratio between the coffee and the water.

As we know, adding too much or too little water or coffee can ruin the taste. Some people are instinctively good at this. They just throw some random amount of coffee into the water and voila! A great cup of coffee is ready.

For us normal folks, we need a bit of help. The Speciality Coffee Association of America (SCAA) created the golden ratio for us folks.

According to them, the ideal ratio between coffee and water is 1:15 to 1:18. This means you need approximately 150ml of water for 8.3g of coffee.

If this seems too complex then don’t bother. We have created a table with different cup numbers and their required ratios in the next part. You will find ground coffee to water ratio, whole bean to ground coffee ratio, and all other ground coffee measurements there. So keep reading if you are interested!

To know more about this, check out tips for making coffee in a percolator.

So How Much Coffee Per Cup?

Exactly how much coffee ground to use per cup? Although it can depend on a multitude of things, there is a basic guideline to follow.

Keep in mind your coffee can taste different depending on the type of coffee beans you use, the brewing method, your coffee machine, and even the type of water for the coffee. So it’s not a linear result.

But as most of us use coffee machines, they require exact ratios and numbers.

Here are all the calculations you need to make any amount of coffee:

Number of Cups	Coffee Ground (grams)	Coffee Ground (tablespoons)	Water(oz)
1	8.3	1.6	6
2	16.6	3.2	12
5	41.5	8	30
6	49.8	9.6	36
8	66.4	12.8	48
10	83	16	60
12	99.6	18.2	72

Need to Make Tons of Coffee? Use a Percolator!

If you have guests around and need to make more than a few cups, instead of using your coffee machine, go for a percolator. It’s faster and easier than any other method.

Yes, coffee percolators can seem rather intimidating. trust us, it’s not. They are a very old-fashioned coffee maker that has been around since the 1800s. The best thing is, no matter how much coffee you are making, the method remains the same.

Here’s how you can use ground coffee for a percolator to make coffee in no time:

Open your percolator and fill up the main pot with tap water. Most percolators come with markings inside the pot to help you measure properly.
Either your percolator has built-in filters or you need to use one of your own. Insert the filter at this point. You can also use paper filters to collect maximum sediments.
Add coffee grounds to the filter basket. Use our chart to know exactly how much coffee per cup to use.
Make sure to evenly distribute coffee grounds. We prefer coarsely ground coffee over fine grind as the former provides better taste.
Put the lid on and turn on your percolator. If it’s a stovetop percolator, keep the flame at medium and keep an eye on it until it starts to boil. For an electric percolator, you need 50-60 seconds of brewing time per cup.

And there you have it. Making coffee using a percolator is that easy. You can check out this video to further understand the process.

Our Key Tips for the Perfect Coffee

Making the perfect coffee is not just the water and coffee ratio. It involves a lot of other subtle things as well. Here are some of our tips for that:

Pick the Right Coffee Beans:

There are two types of coffee lovers. One who knows A to Z about coffee beans and the other who grabs whatever is available in the store. We think knowing and trying a few different types of coffee beans helps you to understand what you love and prefer.

For starters, there are two basic types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is used in most coffee shops. It’s a great option with a nuanced flavor profile.

This type of coffee bean does not produce the strongest type of coffee. It does not have that high caffeine content either.

If you are looking for a stronger coffee, we recommend trying Robusta beans. They are more bitter and have a very strong taste.

Looking for some strong coffee options? Check out What is the Strongest Coffee of 2021?

Use a Coffee Grinder:

Do you really need a home coffee grinder? The answer is yes. We do not recommend buying pre-ground coffee.

They not only last only a few months, but the taste also is not very great either. Pre-ground coffee goes stale very quickly. So you end up with a bland-tasting coffee with a watery, thin consistency.

So instead buy unroasted/roasted coffee grounds and grind them each week. This will give you the best kick of flavor and caffeine and don’t forget how amazing freshly ground coffee smells.

If you are looking for a good coffee grinder, check out our Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity coffee grinder review.

Use a Quality Coffee Maker:

As a former instant coffee addict, I can understand why it feels so intimidating to own a coffee maker. Who wants to learn this complicated-looking machine for a cup of coffee? Oh, how wrong I was back then!

The truth is, coffee machines are really easy to operate. Most modern machines nowadays also come with pre-set features like espresso, double shot, and even dairy options like cappuccino or latte.

So all it takes for you is to fill up the water tan and add some coffee grounds to it. Then press a button and your coffee is ready! It’s actually worth every penny for a coffee lover.

Besides, are you even a coffee lover if you don’t have more than one coffee maker?

Check out The Hottest Coffee Makers of 2021 to compare and pick your favorite.

Milk and Its Alternatives:

As more and more people are turning towards plant-based milk options, it’s curious to know which of them works the best with coffee.

Everyone has their preferred milk alternatives. We personally love almond and cashew milk for its sweet, creamy and nutty flavor. If you ask me, I have totally converted to almond milk as it actually tastes better than dairy.

But there are actually tons of different options from soy milk to oat milk. To know more about this, check out our Best Coconut Milk Substitutes.

One thing to keep in mind is, coffee is very acidic. So make sure to add milk first and then the coffee. This way the milk doesn’t curdle up and separate.

If you are looking for a good coffee percolator, check out our best coffee percolator machine review.

Frequently Asked Questions

01. How Much Caffeine is in a Tablespoon of Ground Coffee?

This can not be very specific as different types of coffee beans have different caffeine levels. But on average, a tablespoon of coffee has 7 mg-110 mg of caffeine. This is specifically for Arabica and Robusta beans. There are of course stronger coffee options but we are not talking about them.

02. How Much Ground Coffee per Cup is Needed for French Press?

In general, it’s ideal to use a ratio of 1:15 of coffee to water. This means you should use 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams of water. If you convert it to tablespoons, that would be around 3 tablespoons per cup.

03. How to Measure Ground Coffee for Brewing?

We like to use a tablespoon for coffee grounds. So for each cup of coffee, use 1-2 tablespoons of coffee grounds. If your coffee is strong, use only a tablespoon. But for lighter beans like Arabica, you can go for 2 tablespoons.

Most standard coffee makers actually mention the amount of coffee you need to add. So it’s not that complex to understand.

04. How Much Ground Coffee is Needed for 12 Cups?

If you are wondering how much ground coffee is for 12 cups, the answer is pretty simple. You will need 18 tablespoons of coffee ground for 12 cups of water.

This will make the perfect coffee every time. But depending on your preference you can add or reduce a few tablespoons here and there.

05. Can You Use Ground Coffee in a Keurig?

Yes, you can use ground coffee in your Keurig coffee maker. But you have to make sure the grind is not too fine and neither too coarse. Keurig is very specific so you have to grind your coffee accordingly.

Takeaway

Now that you know exactly how much ground coffee per cup is needed, you are able to make the perfect coffee each time. And the best part is, our chart helps you to make any amount of coffee with the best ratio.

Which coffee brewing method is your favorite? Do you use a percolator? Let us know in the comments below!

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How To Tell If Shrimp Is Cooked: A Foolproof Guide

Posted on July 26, 2021January 24, 2023 by John Bird

Learn how to tell if shrimp is cooked by looking at its color and size and how to prevent overcooking them so that they don’t become rubbery and less juicy.

Shrimp is a type of seafood with shells belonging to the crustacean family and it’s the most common seafood that the US imports.

These can vary in size and the larger ones are called prawns although they don’t belong to the same family.

You can make various dishes with shrimp like salads, pasta, and chowder.

They are also great to have on their own sautéed in olive oil.

However, it’s a bit tricky to cook shrimp as the difference between undercooked, cooked, and overcooked shrimp is just a matter of minutes.

In this post, we will cover all you need to know about what does cooked shrimp look like.

How To Know If Shrimp Is Cooked

There are several ways to tell when shrimp is cooked thoroughly.

If you’re an expert, then you already know what color is cooked shrimp.

However, for those new to cooking shrimp, here are the best ways to know when shrimp is cooked.

Color

Translucent shrimp with grey shells are raw shrimp, meaning that light penetrates through the flesh somewhat but not all the way through.

Cooked shrimp still translucent means you need to cook it some more before it turns pearly white with tinges of pink and red.

Opaque white shrimp is the correct sign when you know you have properly cooked shrimp.

When shrimp is done on one side, you can see hints of pink and red highlights on the exterior and the tail.

Take note of the degree of whiteness in the flesh.

Just when it starts to turn white is about the right time when you know that the shrimp is done.

If you wait for the white to be a more solid white then you will have overcooked shrimp in your hands.

Then flip to cook the other side but how would you know that the inside has turned white?

The best way to tell when the shrimp is done is to keep an eye on the crevice on the back of the shrimp where it was deveined.

The shrimp is thickest at the opposite end of the tail, so make sure to focus on that area.

You want to wait until the flesh at the base of that crevice turns from translucent to opaque to know you have perfectly cooked shrimp.

Temperature

If you’re not confident yet about how to tell if prawns are cooked, the easiest way is to check the temperature of the skillet or the internal temperature of the shrimp.

When your instant thermometer shows a reading of 165°F (74°C), that’s when you know you have prepared shrimp properly.

It’s not safe to eat raw shrimp unless they are sushi-grade.

Speaking of temperature, you should know how to cook frozen shrimp the right way to avoid rubbery texture and also to ensure that there’s no chance of getting food poisoning.

Shape

Shrimp shrinks when they’re cooked as their muscles contract and the shrimp curl as a result.

Some chefs say you’ll know they’re done when they form a C shape, but if the opaque color shrimp keep forming an o shape, they’re overcooked.

So C is for cooked and O is for overcooked.

That’s a simple way to tell if shrimp is cooked!

However, what if you have the shrimps on skewers?

They won’t be able to curl if barbecued using skewers.

In this case, it’s better to go back to the lesson we have learned about what color is shrimp when cooked – opaque white.

How To Tell When Shrimp is Done: Factors That Affect The Cooking Time

Size

It’s a no-brainer that cooking shrimp of smaller size will take less time than the large ones.

The trick is to pay attention when you’re cooking the smaller shrimp so you can adjust the heat to ensure that they don’t get overcooked.

Shells On Or Off

If you serve seasoned or boiled shrimp, it’s recommended to cook them with the shells on to pack in the flavor and moisture.

Of course, the cooking time will increase with the shells on as you will need five full minutes to make sure they are cooked thoroughly.

It’s better to remove the shell and cook or boil them if you’re going to add shrimp to pasta or rice dish as otherwise, it will take a lot of work to remove the shells at the table.

Without the shells, shrimps take two to three minutes to cook.

Heat

Cooking shrimp over a low and slow flame will take longer than cooking them over high heat.

Shrimp is something that should not be slow-cooked, however.

It’s not like beef or mutton that will have a fall-off-the-bone effect when cooked over low heat.

Shrimp turns out best if you pull a fast one over high heat.

Cooking Process

Sauteing with veggies	1-2 minutes
Sauteing for adding to salad or pasta	1-1.5 minutes
Grilling	2 minutes for each side

The cooking method of shrimp affects the time it takes to cook shrimp.

The shrimp should be cooked in 1 to 2 minutes if you’re stir-frying them with veggies; however, the vegetables should be very hot before adding the shrimp.

If you’re planning to add the shrimp to a salad or pasta, it should be sautéed over medium-high heat for one to one and a half minutes before being removed from the fire to allow it to finish cooking.

For boiling shrimp, bring the water to a boil before adding the shrimp if you’re cooking them for a dish like a shrimp cocktail.

After adding the shrimp, keep an eye on the pot and turn off the heat just as it begins to boil again.

Remove the shrimp as soon as they become pink and immediately submerge them in freezing water.

If you’re grilling shrimp, it takes about 2 minutes to cook shrimp on each side.

Skewer them separately from other meats and veggies.

In this manner, since the cooking durations for each item probably vary greatly, you also don’t run the risk of overcooking them.

Frozen Or Fresh

Last but not least, whether you’re cooking frozen or fresh shrimp will impact the total cooking time.

Frozen shrimp tend to cook faster than thawed or fresh shrimp.

So time your cooking well and make sure you’re cooking frozen shrimp for a shorter time.

What To Do Before You Cook Shrimp

For the best tasting shrimp, start with buying the right shrimp.

You can buy raw shrimp from fishmongers, at the seafood counter, or frozen shrimp from supermarkets.

The shrimp size will usually be mentioned on the package – small, medium, large, extra large, or jumbo.

If you’re a busy person, buying deshelled and deveined shrimp will save you much time and you can have your shrimp meal sooner than later.

But if you’re someone like me who wants to savor every bite of grilled shrimp and treat friends, it’s better to buy shrimp with shells.

This will prevent the shrimp from drying out and will keep the mildly sweet flavor of this beloved crustacean intact.

Whether you sauté shrimp in a pan, broil it on a skewer, or add it to a soup, it cooks rapidly.

It doesn’t take long for raw shrimp to go from gray to pink and get cooked properly.

If you have frozen shrimp and you’re suddenly craving a shrimp meal, don’t worry.

To thaw frozen shrimp, put it in a bowl and run a cold water tap over it until it has defrosted.

Or, put the frozen shrimp straight into the pan to cook.

Or, if you want to cook the shrimp for guests, you can put frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.

Tips To Cook The Perfect Shrimp

If you want to cook the perfect shrimp, make sure to give them each some breathing room by laying them in a single layer in a large pot.

This allows for optimal contact with the hot frying surface, giving the shrimp a deep sear and even cooking throughout.

If you’re concerned that you overdid the shrimp, you can stop the shrimp from cooking by taking them out of the pan right away.

Even if the heat is turned off they’ll still cook a little bit.

But if you leave them in the pan, the heat will make them dry out.

Don’t grill or cook shrimp beyond 5 minutes.
Always use the same size of shrimp as a mixed size of medium and jumbo size shrimps won’t cook uniformly and you will have some shrimps undercooked while others are overcooked.
Frozen shrimp can become rubbery faster than defrosted or raw shrimp.

Therefore, make sure to cook frozen shrimp for a shorter time.

Avoid defrosting frozen shrimp in the microwave oven as this will make them rubbery.

How To Tell If Shrimp Is Bad

Cooking the perfect shrimp will mean zilch if the shrimp was bad in the first place.

How to tell if the shrimp you’re buying is bad?

Fresh raw shrimp should give off a slight smell of the ocean, not a strong fishy smell.

Moreover, a translucent and glossy look means the shrimp are fresh and good to buy.

If shrimp looks cloudy or feels slimy to the touch, drop them immediately!

That covers fresh shrimp.

What about cooked shrimp?

How do you know it has gone bad?

Do the sniff test!

If you smell anything unusual, then it’s off.

Or, if it doesn’t have a pale pink fresh look on it, it’s time to toss it.

How To Store Shrimp

It’s best to store fresh shrimp in the refrigerator as soon as you buy it.

This will stay good for two days in the fridge provided the constant temperature of the fridge is 40°F (4.4°C).

If you want to make it last longer, you should freeze shrimp.

Before putting it in the freezer, wrap the shrimp in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container.

What if you have leftover shrimp you cooked last night?

Well, you should bring them down to room temperature and refrigerate it in an airtight container.

This will last for up to four days in the fridge.

Can You Fix Overcooked Shrimp?

Unfortunately, no!

Once you have rubbery shrimp, there’s no way back.

The worst thing you can do is keep it on the flame and hope that it will taste good again.

The best thing under the circumstances would be to add it to a creamy pasta dish instead of having them on their own.

What Happens If You Eat Undercooked Shrimp?

You may get food poisoning if you eat shrimp that has been partially cooked.

Although in China and Japan, eating raw shrimp is okay, it’s not recommended as there can be Vibrio bacteria present in raw or live shrimp.

Some variants of this bacteria can be really harmful for human health.

FAQs

Are Pink Shrimp Cooked?

Yes, when the exterior parts of the shrimp turn pink, it means it’s cooked.

How Do You Know If Shrimp Is Undercooked?

Undercooked shrimp will appear gray and translucent.

What Does Fully Cooked Shrimp Look Like?

When shrimp is fully cooked, it looks white and opaque with touches of red, orange, and pink on the exterior and on the tail.

Can You Eat Undercooked Shrimp?

Only if it’s sushi-grade shrimp can you eat undercooked or raw shrimp.
Otherwise, you may fall sick due to the bacteria present in undercooked shrimp.

How Long Does It Take Shrimp To Cook?

It takes 2 to 5 minutes for the shrimp to cook.

Do Coffee Grounds Go Bad? Find Out the Truth!

Posted on July 4, 2021September 8, 2022 by John Bird

Even though we do not think about it, coffee grounds have an expiry date too. So is your coffee okay to eat or have they lost their luster? In this article, we will find out the way to tell if the coffee has gone bad and all the tips to store your coffee properly.

If you find this interesting, then keep on reading!

Do Coffee Grounds Go Bad?

All good things eventually come to an end. Your precious coffee beans are no exception.

If you are anything like us, chances are you have at least two extra coffee grounds containers somewhere in the pantry. But how long are they going to last?

What if they go stale before you get a chance to enjoy them?

It turns out, even though it’s a dry ingredient, coffee grounds go bad eventually. They go bad because they give a certain shelf life. No matter how well you try to store them, they will eventually become stale.

Of course, there are a few tricks to keep your coffee fresh for longer. If you are interested, keep on reading!

How to Store Ground Coffee

If you want to store ground coffee so it does not go bad within a few months, you need to make sure of a few key things:

Buy coffee beans instead of coffee grounds as beans stay fresh for much longer. Grinding coffee beans is time-consuming. But every time you grind them, the smell of fresh coffee will blow you away. There is nothing quite like it.
Store your coffee grounds in an airtight container, preferably a glass one. This prevents the coffee from getting exposed to oxygen thus keeps it fresh.
Keep your coffee beans and grounds in a dry place. Do not store them in the fridge! You’d be surprised by how many people actually store their coffee in the refrigerator.
Moisture is the biggest enemy for your coffee grounds. So try to keep your coffee moisture-free. This prevents them from going stale.
If your coffee container is really big, transfer some to a smaller container and use that one every day. This way all of your coffee grounds do not get daily air exposure. This keeps the oil inside the coffee intact.

How Long Does Ground Coffee Last

How long your coffee ground lasts depends on how well you have stored them. If you keep your coffee in an average container, it will go stale within a week.

If you keep your coffee grounds in a vacuum-sealed container, it can last years without any issue. Once you open the coffee jar, it needs to be consumed within a few months. Keeping the container in a cool, dry place might help to increase the time.

That’s why we like to store our daily coffee in smaller containers. This keeps the main coffee container intact for longer.

If you grind your own coffee at home, try to finish it within a month as the quality of the coffee is at its peak during this time. After that, the coffee stays good but the taste deteriorates. This happens because the oil inside starts to dry down.

How to Tell if Ground Coffee is Bad

There are a few different ways to tell if the coffee ground has gone bad or not. Let us get this out first, always close the lid properly.

We can’t tell you how many times we had to throw away coffee grounds because we forgot to properly close the lid and the coffee turned stale. It’s the worst mistake!

Now that we know what not to do, here’s how you know it’s time to toss out your favorite coffee:

Molds:

Molds occur when moisture gets inside the coffee jar. Do you use your wet spoon to take coffee out of the container? If so, then no wonder your coffee is all moldy and spoiled.

Moisture is basically the enemy of coffee or any other dry ingredients. So when you dip a wet spoon, small water particles stay inside and wet the whole coffee. Over time molds can develop and ruin the whole thing.

Smell:

We all know the smell of good-quality coffee. The smell is very specific and unique.

One of the best ways to know if the coffee is bad is to give it a good sniff. If it smells mellow or dusty, the coffee has probably lost its flavor.

Flavor:

If you can not tell yet, the best way to know if your coffee is good or not is to brew a cuppa for you.

Brew a small cup and check if you see any shade difference. Bad coffee has a lighter brew instead of the classic deep black color. Taste the coffee to see if it’s up to your standard. Stale coffee tastes bland. So you will know instantly.

Coffee Beans vs Coffee Grounds

This is all about what is convenient to you and what you want from your coffee. If you want a quick way to get your daily coffee, coffee grounds is the way to go.

But if you are looking for a way to store a lot of coffee at home, coffee beans are the best choice. All you need is a coffee grinder and a few minutes. It’s super easy to do.

We prefer coffee beans as it’s the only way to get fresh coffee every single day. Ground coffee lacks depth and vibrancy as it loses a lot of flavor and oil through the packaging process.

Coffee beans can last for 1.5 years in a sealed container.

We already know how long coffee grounds last. We think doing the extra work of grinding the coffee at home is so worth it.

Should You Freeze Coffee?

This is actually a very debatable topic in the coffee community. Some coffee lovers swear by this method whereas others are strongly opposed to it.

Some believe freezing coffee grounds helps to retain the natural oil that prevents it from getting stale faster. We don’t freeze our coffee nor do we advise you to do so.

Freezing can add a lot of ice particles to the coffee which can make the coffee go stale. Think about it, we just mentioned moisture is the biggest enemy for coffee grounds.

The refrigerator is all about water and ice. Why would we put out coffee in the freezer then? It does not make sense.

Yes, keeping your coffee grounds in the freezer might help to keep it slightly fresh. But if you keep it for more than a week, it’s going to become a dull, tasteless powder. So, no, you should never freeze your coffee!

Best Containers for Coffee Grounds/Beans

You might think any airtight container is good enough to store coffee. But we would have to disagree. If you want to keep your coffee fresh for a really long time, investing in a good coffee container is worth it.

You need something that can vacuum seal and prevent any air circulation. It should either be stainless steel or solid thick glass.

Simpli-Magic 5 Piece Mason Jars are a great pick as it is both affordable and sturdy with vacuum-sealed technology. You can also use a vacuum sealer to keep your coffee in Ziploc bags. Nutrichef is a classic choice for that.

Frequently Asked Questions

01. How Long are Coffee Beans Good for?

Coffee beans can last for a few weeks after roasting. If you roast them, they can last even longer. Usually, well-roasted coffee beans can last 3-5 months in an airtight container. Storing the coffee beans properly helps to ensure quality over time.

02. Can You Drink Expired Coffee Beans?

You can drink expired coffee beans but it won’t taste good. You are not going to be sick from it but the flavor might be off-putting. It will taste stale and rancid. Unless you are talking about brands that are 3-4 years old, then we recommend not even trying to drink it.

03. When Does Coffee Go Bad?

Coffee tends to deteriorate with time, especially if it’s ground coffee. Ground coffee can go stale after a few weeks of opening the container.

Coffee beans last longer than ground coffee but you need to store it properly. Brewed coffee can go bad after 3-4 hours of making it. That’s why it’s never a good idea to batch-make the whole day’s worth of coffee at once.

04. How Long Does Ground Coffee Last in an Airtight Container?

Ground coffee does not survive oxygen. If you don’t store it properly, it will go bad in a few weeks. To keep it fresh for longer, use an airtight container ideally made of glass. This helps to protect your coffee from going rancid.

A well-stored container of coffee can last up to 5 months without any issues.

05. Is It Bad to Leave Coffee Grounds Out Overnight?

Leaving your coffee grounds out overnight can cause them to go stale faster. The reaction between hydrogen and oxygen raises the pH level in your coffee. This makes your coffee taste more acidic and bitter.

When the pH level increases, the coffee becomes stale. This is why it’s so important to store your coffee in an airtight container.

06. Can Old Coffee Grounds Make You Sick?

An old coffee can not necessarily make you sick unless it has molds and bacteria growing inside. Old coffee is basically stale coffee or a coffee that has lost its kick. Drinking old coffee won’t make you sick but it won’t give you the energy boost you’re looking for either.

07. Do Unopened Coffee Grounds Go Bad?

You can actually store your unopened coffee grounds for a long time. It can last 5-6 months past the expiration date. If you store the container in the freezer, it can stay good for up to 2-3 years.

Unopened coffee beans never “go bad” as it is considered to be a shelf-stable dry food. They might lose the freshness after a few weeks but they won’t go stale for years.

08. What Can I Do with Expired Coffee Beans?

If you have a few containers of stale coffee beans and you don’t feel like just throwing them away, there are a few creative ways to use them.

Firstly, you can even use coffee as a fertilizer in your garden. They are filled with nutrients that help plants grow faster.

Coffee grounds also repel insects and pests so they will protect the plants from being affected. You can grind the coffee beans and add olive oil to make a body scrub from it. They are really good and gentle on your skin.

Coffee beans are great at removing fleas from your pets. As it’s not a chemical, it’s safer to use.

You can also use stale coffee beans to make chocolate-covered coffee beans. They might not taste as good as the fresh ones, but they will taste delicious nonetheless.

In Brief

The worst thing for a coffee lover is to open a container and find stale, bland coffee grounds inside. The great news, however, is that we have mentioned all the tips and tricks to make your coffee last as long as possible.

Was it helpful? What are your tips for the best brew? Comment down below to let us know!

Happy caffeinating!

What is Tobiko in Sushi? Learn All About It Here!

Posted on July 1, 2021September 16, 2022 by John Bird

If you have ever tried Japanese sushi then you noticed some bright-colored things on top of them. They usually are added as a topping on different sushi rolls. These are known as tobiko which is a Japanese term for ‘flying fish roe’.

Tobiko eggs are very distinctive looking with their super small size. They usually range between 0.5 to 0.8 mm in diameter.

Most of the restaurants add colors or wasabi to tobiko eggs. But if they are natural without any added condiments, they have a reddish-orange color.

This color can change depending on what you mix with it. They can turn green, black or light pink too.

Let’s find more about it!

What is Tobiko in Sushi?

Tobiko is used as a topping for sushi dishes to make them look more appealing and delicious. This garnish is commonly used in raw Japanese dishes as it adds a salty, smokiness to it.

There are a few different types of flying fish roe that is used interchangeably in Japanese dishes. Tobiko, masago, and ikura are some of the most common types.

Masago eggs are visually very different from Tobiko as they are even smaller in size. Ikura is basically Japanese salmon eggs which makes them the Japanese version of caviar.

Even though tobiko is not that known in the west, you can find them in many grocery stores in Japan. They come in a wide range and packaging. All you have to do is grab a spoon and take as much as needed.

What is Tobiko Made of?

Tobiko is made of Argentina’s national fish, the Toba. The hyper-realistic tobito can fly and lives a long time – sometimes up until three years old!

What is “roe” in Sushi?

Some people think roe is an ingredient, but it’s actually not. It tends to be found in colder fish like salmon or mackerel and can come as vacuum packed pieces which you thaw before cooking with them for added texture – sometimes they’re also served on top of sushi rolls where there are small balls that look just like eggs!
It doesn’t really have any flavor itself so this will depend entirely upon what else has been put onto your tongue first; some common pairings include rawerton sauces (a type made from tomatoes)avocado leaves sheets dippers cress etc…

What’s the Difference between Tobiko and Masago?

Masago and tobiko both are the roe of the capelin fish. This means they have a lot of similarities. Despite how interchangeable they are, a keen eye can spot the differences at a first glance.

Masago’s color is dull compared to tobiko which is bright red/orange. Masago is often dyed or mixed with other condiments to change its look and appeal.

The taste of masago is not similar to tobiko. Masago is not as crunchy and is a juicer. It looks smaller than tobiko. Masago actually looks a lot like sand as the eggs are super small.

What is Black Tobiko?

Black tobiko is basically tobiko that has been dyed with either squid ink or food colorings. The color can vary from deep blackish-red to green.

Tobiko eggs absorb colors very well which is why sushi chefs like to use different colors for different dishes. This not only makes them look unique, but it also adds to the appeal of the dish.

To color tobiko eggs, chefs use beetroot for red, wasabi for green, and of course squid ink for jet black.

One color you won’t find in tobiko is blue. Blue is a very rare color to find.

There are however some species of fish that produce natural blue roe in Australia. Actually, there is a wide range of fish roe all around the world and each has its uniqueness. But we will get to that some other day.

How Do You Eat Tobiko Sushi?

You probably have eaten tobiko many times before without knowing or realizing it. How can’t you! They are everywhere in Japanese sushi places.

They have been around for a long time yet we never realized they are fish eggs. The difference is, people are now curious about what they are eating thanks to the internet!

Eating tobiko sushi is quite simple. They are added on top of the sushi to give a vibrant color. Tobiko is used as a topping or garnish. So next time when you eat sushi with chopsticks, notice the tiny balls on top of the sushi rice.

They look colorful and delicious. You can add a bit of ginger or wasabi on top of the tobiko eggs to enhance the smokiness of the roe.

How to Make Tobiko Sushi?

If you want to make tobiko sushi at home, it’s pretty easy to do. If you have made sushi before, this will take only 10-15 minutes for you. So here’s how to make tobiko sushi:

Ingredients:

4-5 tablespoons of tobiko eggs
Half a cup of sushi rice (cooked)
One nori sheet
Your favorite veggies. (cucumber, carrots, etc.)

Instructions:

Put on your gloves and get your hands before handling the sushi rice. Sushi rice tends to be very sticky so this helps to prevent mess.
Grab a handful of sushi rice and add small ovals that look around 2-3 inches long.
Take your nori sheet and cut it at 1-2 inches in width. Then wrap it around your rice. The nori seaweed helps to keep the rice protected. So when you use your chopsticks to eat it, the whole thing does not break into pieces.
When you are wrapping the nori strip, make sure to leave a little space above the rice. This is where the tobiko goes.
Use water to seal the nori together.
Push some rice down and make a small dip. Add your tobiko on top of the rice. After you are done, serve the sushi immediately. Tobiko sushi tends to get soggy quickly. So eat as soon as possible.
Add wasabi, grated ginger, and soy sauce to the platter to enhance the taste of the tobiko eggs.

See how easy it is? Tobiko sushi is probably the easiest type to make. So try next time with your family and friends!

Where to Find Tobiko for Your Sushi?

Tobiko is not a very known ingredient. So your best bet is the local Asian stores. Look for Japanese grocery stores in your area. They definitely carry more than one type of tobiko.

We recommend going for the smaller size the first time. You don’t need a lot of it anyway unless you are making tons of sushi for everyone.

If you can’t find it anywhere, oh well there’s always amazon. We like the Bemka Flying Fish Roe Caviar for fresh tobiko roe.

How to Eat Tobiko in Other Dishes

Nobody said you can only eat tobiko with sushi and sashimi. In fact, there is a wide range of ways you can enjoy tobiko and add it to your usual diet!

Tobiko Pasta: We just love adding a tablespoon of tobiko on top of freshly made pasta. If you are making creamy pasta with a cheesy sauce, add some tobiko on top as garnish.

The small salty bites will balance out the creaminess with a hint of smokiness. Who doesn’t want that!
Dips: Imagine adding tobiko to nachos or crackers. It will taste divine especially with some lemon zest on top.
Salads: This is actually the simplest way to add extra nutrition and protein to your salad. The salad not only will look more colorful but it will also last taste delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

01. Is Tobiko the Same as Caviar?

Tobiko is not actually the same as caviar. Even though they might look similar in color and size, tobiko is saltier. It’s made by salt-uring the fish roe which gives it the intense smoky and salty taste.

Despite the salt, tobiko is much sweeter than caviar. Tobiko can be made from any fish roe whereas caviar is specifically made from fish eggs of a sturgeon.

02. What is Tobiko Eggs Made of?

Tobiko eggs are made of a type of fish roe. It can look very similar to salmon eggs. It has a very different texture and taste from other types of fish roe like caviar.

Tobiko is very popular in Japan and it actually has much smaller eggs than other fish species. It looks vibrant, bright reddish in color. Some people think tobiko eggs are not real eggs.

That’s a misconception. Tobiko basically comes from flying fish species. Their eggs look so colorful and tiny that people assume it’s not real.

03. What Does Tobiko Eggs Taste Like?

Tobiko eggs have a very distinct and unique taste which makes them so popular. They are salty and smoky without being overpowering.

Even though it’s so salty, it has a note of sweetness as well. When you bite into them, instead of popping like caviar, they feel crunchy. This gives them a very pleasurable mouthfeel.

04. Is Tobiko Fake?

No, tobiko is not fake! Due to their bright orange color and super small eggs, tobiko looks like cartoon food, in a good way of course!

But they are anything but fake. Tobiko roe comes from a type of flying fish. They are super popular in sushi and other Japanese dishes due to their unique texture and flavor profile. It adds a hint of umami to any dish.

05. Is Tobiko Bad for You?

Tobiko is rich in protein and fatty acids. It has omega-3 fatty acids which are amazing for our heart and liver. These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and help our brain to function better. If you have a weak immune system, adding tobiko to your diet can boost it very fast.

However, tobiko contains a high level of cholesterol which can be damaging for high blood pressure patients. Eat it in moderation if you are diabetic or overweight.

Typically, tobiko is served in smaller portions anyway. So it’s not a big issue.

06. What is Roe in Sushi?

Roe is basically fish eggs. When fish eggs are fully ripe they look bright red or orange in color, this is the best time to eat them. Fish roe is a very common ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

They are added in both cooked and uncooked manner to dishes. A lot of Japanese sushi is covered in fish roe which adds a salty, smoky flavor to the food.

It melts in your mouth and gives you that umami sensation we all love. In case you are wondering, fish roe does not smell or taste fishy at all.

In Short

No wonder tobiko is so cherished and loved by so many people. Just a small dash of tobiko completes the dish.

We just love the crunchy texture of tobiko in different recipes. Don’t hesitate to try tobiko with different dishes. You will be pleasantly surprised by how good it tastes!

On that note, here are the best lists of jasmine and brown rice brands if you are interested. Enjoy!

6 Things You Can Substitute for Rice Vinegar: Easy Options to Use Instead

Posted on June 30, 2021January 24, 2023 by John Bird

Rice is the ultimate ingredient. Besides being a dietary staple in many cultures, you can turn rice into crispy chips, a smooth and creamy pudding, or delicately flavored vinegar.

Yup, that’s right. Rice can be used to make vinegar. In fact, rice vinegar has a pleasant sweetness, toned down tartness, and a great flavor profile. This makes it a popular condiment in many Asian dishes. It is used to season sushi rice, noodles, stir-fries, and dipping sauces.

But what is one to do when they don’t have or can’t find rice vinegar? Most people will go looking for a substitute for rice vinegar. And if you’re one of them, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, you will find out all about all the things you can substitute for rice vinegar. Besides talking about each replacement for rice vinegar, I will also mention my favorite product, as well as the dishes you can and cannot substitute them in.

You may also like: Best way to freeze vinegar

A Quick Glance at Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar is made from fermented rice. The sugars in rice are turned to alcohol aka rice wine. Bacteria are then used in a second fermentation which turns the rice wine into vinegar.

The result is a much milder vinegar which isn’t as sour as white vinegar or anything made from fermented grapes or malt. This makes it a delicious addition to salads, noodles, fried rice, and sauteed vegetables.

It has a much subtler flavor and melds into the background. Because of this, it pairs well with soy, sake, brown sugar, and fish sauce, making it the perfect condiment for Asian and Asian-fusion cuisine.

People often get confused between rice vinegar and rice wine vinegar. However, the two are the same thing.

But you need to know that there is a difference between rice wine and rice vinegar/rice vinegar. You can drink rice wine and it has a sweet flavor, but rice vinegar is too sour for even a sip!

Chinese rice vinegar is another variant that confuses people. These two can be interchanged, but Chinese rice vinegar is often black or red and has added aromatics and seasonings to further flavor the condiment.

Best Rice Vinegar Substitutes

The following are among the best substitutes available for rice vinegar. You might have to change the amounts mentioned in the recipe to get a similar flavor profile, but these will make for a reliable substitution for rice vinegar.

01. Apple Cider Vinegar:

[amazon box=”B07QD9BBL8″]

If your recipe calls for rice vinegar, there’s a good chance that it wants a mild, almost fruity condiment with the right kind of tartness. This is why apple cider vinegar is the most common and ideal alternative to rice vinegar.

Both apple cider vinegar and rice vinegar have a subtle flavor that won’t clash too much with other seasonings and won’t overpower the dish. Moreover, ACV is easily available everywhere and is used in many other dishes, as well as consumed for health purposes.

Apple cider vinegar can also be used to condition hair and clarify the scalp, so a big bottle will see you through multiple uses. However, bear in mind that ACV has a fruity apple flavor, which can slightly alter the taste of your pickles or sushi rice.

For most other dishes, just use an equal amount of apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar.

Best for: Marinades, sauces, ramen, dressings

Not Recommended for: Pickling and seasoning sushi rice

Amazon Product Recommendations: Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar and Marukan Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

02. White Wine Vinegar(not white vinegar)

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Since we’re looking for sweetness, the keywords in this substitution are ‘white wine’. Don’t use plain white vinegar instead-it will be way too tart. Instead, use white wine vinegar as it has a milder, sweeter flavor and isn’t nearly as pungent as white vinegar.

White wine vinegar is used a lot in Western cooking and is used primarily for flavoring and deglazing pans. When using it to replace rice vinegar, start by adding a small amount of white wine vinegar and add more as you go along, until you are satisfied with the flavor.

If you think the dish is missing some sweetness, add anywhere from a pinch to a quarter teaspoon of granulated sugar for every spoon of vinegar to balance out the acidity. If you must use white vinegar, use half or less than half the amount specified in the recipe.

Best for: Marinades, sauces, ramen, dressings, pan sauces, and sushi rice

Not Recommended for: Certain desserts

Amazon Product Recommendations: Solspring Biodynamic Organic White Wine Vinegar and Colavita Aged White Wine Vinegar

03. Lime/Lemon Juice:

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Even if you don’t have fancy vinegar in your pantry, there’s a good chance you have a lime or lemon in the back of your fridge. Lime juice has a natural sweetness that balances out some of the sourness, making it a great seasoned rice vinegar substitute. However, adding a touch of sugar to lemon juice also does the trick.

The brightness of citrus juices makes it a great option for salad dressings, marinades, and a topping for noodle dishes like Pad Thai. However, bear in mind that lemons and limes have a certain zesty, floral note to them which you will not find in rice vinegar.

As citrus juices are pretty mild, you may need to double the amount when using them to replace rice vinegar. As always, taste and go whenever you can to make sure your dish ends up being perfect.

Best for: Desserts, marinades, sauces, dressings

Not Recommended for: Sushi rice, pan sauces

Amazon Product Recommendation: Iberia 32-Ounce Pure Lemon Juice and Lucy’s Family Owned Lime Juice

04. Champagne Vinegar:

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Besides apple cider vinegar, this may be the closest thing to rice vinegar in terms of flavor. This mild, floral, sweetish vinegar is made by fermenting Chardonnay. It has a very bright flavor profile, with a surprising amount of tang, but a light taste.

Because of its mild taste, cooking this vinegar for too long or at high temperatures can kill its flavor. So, it is best to use it for raw preparations like a vinaigrette or salad dressing. You can even use it to finish sauces, or drizzle over vegetables, or when making soy-stained boiled eggs.

At the same time, champagne vinegar is a good option for marinades and it tenderizes meat very well. When replacing rice vinegar with champagne vinegar, use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

Best for: Marinades, dipping sauces, dressings, vinaigrettes

Not Recommended for: Stews, soups, and slow-cooked dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Sparrow Lane Champagne Vinegar and Beaufor French Champagne-Ardenne Vinegar

05. Sherry Vinegar:

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Anyone used to cooking will know that sherry vinegar is always a good option to keep in the kitchen. In fact, it is even known as balsamic vinegar’s even better friend. And if you are looking for a brown rice vinegar substitute, sherry vinegar is a near-perfect replacement.

Sherry vinegar is generally sourced from Cadiz in Spain and is made by fermenting wine and then aging it. The more aged the vinegar, the darker it looks, and the more complex the flavors. Aged vinegar is also quite pricey.

But relatively younger sherry vinegar is much more complex than other wine vinegar. They have a crisp, tart, acidity, which is balanced out by sweeter, caramel notes. Instead of the more floral notes, you will find layers of nuttiness and understated fruity flavors.

Because of this, sherry vinegar works really well as a salad dressing, when added to chili, thick hearty stews, marinara, and rich sauces. It also works as a great addition to soups with beans and meat, and as a drizzle over fresh vegetables.

Start by replacing half the amount of rice vinegar as mentioned in the recipe. If you think your dish needs more, add it in small splashes and try to taste as you go along.

Best for: Soups, stews, chili, stir-fries, and salad dressings

Not Recommended for: Mildly flavored dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Arvum Oak-Aged Sherry Vinegar and Roland Sherry Vinegar

06. Balsamic Vinegar:

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If you don’t have any of the options mentioned above, you can always substitute balsamic vinegar for rice vinegar. This tangy, slightly sweet, and salty pairs wonderfully well with various meats and vegetables.

This kind of vinegar develops a rich and complex flavor as it ages. You can drizzle it over raw and roasted vegetables, add it to marinades, make glazes, sauces, and even use it on pizzas and pastas.

The sweetness of balsamic vinegar matches that in rice vinegar, so you can substitute the same amount for almost any recipe out there. Whether you have white balsamic vinegar or the ordinary kind, it won’t make much of a difference in terms of flavor.

Best for: Baked and stir-fried meats, drizzles, sauces, and stews

Not Recommended for: Certain clear soups and noodle dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar and Mantova Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 4-Variety Pack

Apple Cider Vinegar vs Rice Vinegar

By now you already know apple cider vinegar is one of the closest substitutes to rice vinegar. However, the two do have a few differences. For starters, apple cider vinegar is cloudy, while rice vinegar is clear. This means that a substitution might change the appearance of the dish.

And while the sweet-to-sour ratio is rather similar, apple cider vinegar has a mild fruity apple flavor. This is absolutely missing from rice vinegar, so your dish may end up with a subtle apple note in the background.

Moreover, apple cider vinegar is much easier to find, especially when compared to rice vinegar. You will find it online, in any grocery store or supermarket. On the other hand, rice vinegar is harder to find, and you will need to order them online or go to an Asian store.

Rice Vinegar DIY

If you can’t find rice vinegar anywhere, it might be worth trying to make some yourself. Here is an easy guide that will show you how to make rice vinegar at home.

What You Will Need:

2 cups of cooked rice, along with its cooking water
1 L filtered water
1-2 fluid ounces of rice wine or Mother of Vinegar

Instructions:

Start by combining the rice and its cooking water, the Mother of Vinegar, and the water in a dark, airtight container.
Cover the container with 2 layers of cheesecloth. Secure them in place with a rubber band.
Set the mixture in a dark, warm place, like the back of a kitchen cupboard where it won’t be disturbed. You can also keep it in the basement or a pantry shelf.
Check on the mixture after three weeks. The fermentation process takes anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months. The mixture should have a sour smell, and when tasted it should be tart.
You may want to leave the mixture for a couple of more weeks. This will allow the fermentation to continue, and the vinegar to taste more like the store-bought stuff.
Strain the vinegar mixture through the cheesecloth to remove the rice. Then cover the rice vinegar with another cheesecloth and chill it in the fridge for a few hours.
Once cooled, filter again through cheesecloth and store in a clean airtight container. Your rice vinegar is ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to questions people have about rice wine vinegar and its substitutes.

01. What is the Difference between Rice Vinegar and Rice Wine Vinegar?

The two kinds of vinegar are pretty similar and can be used interchangeably.

02. Can I Use Red Wine Vinegar instead of Rice Vinegar?

Both red and white wine vinegar can be used instead of rice vinegar. However, it is much more acidic than rice vinegar so a substitution should be added sparingly.

03. What Dishes Use Rice Vinegar?

Rice vinegar can be used as a dipping sauce, in seafood, rice, noodles, and pickling vegetables.

Finally

If you are looking for a substitute for rice vinegar, this article gives you several options to use. Whether you want to use champagne vinegar, sherry vinegar, or apple cider vinegar, you will have a clear idea of how much you should use, and which dish each replacement works best for.

So the next time you want to make a couple of elaborate Asian courses, don’t worry if you can’t find any rice vinegar. These substitutes will have your back and no one will suspect there’s an ingredient missing!