by Timmy Duncan

Created on: April 08, 2010   Last Updated: April 20, 2010

Though the terms 'grilling' and 'barbecue' are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two very different methods of cooking. Those who are passionate about barbecue often feel strongly that a distinction should be made, especially given the time and effort that goes into an authentic barbecue.

The simplest way of explaining the difference between the two methods of cooking is that they are polar opposites. Barbecue is a slow process with low heat, while grilling is a quick process with a high level of heat. Often called 'smoking', barbecue relies on an indirect source of heat where grilliing requires you to place the food directly over the source of heat. 

Typically cooked over a gas flame or hot coals, grilling creates a juicy piece of meat. The fast pace of the cooking and high level of heat seals in the juices. However, if you leave the meat on for too long, it can become dried out. Grilling requires the cook to pay careful attention so that the food does not become burnt. If you are going to use a sauce (like a barbecue sauce), you should wait until late in the cooking process so that the sugar in the sauce doesn't burn.

On the other hand, barbecue is usually done over charcoal or wood (though gas can also be used). Where grilling is perfect for tender pieces of meat, barbecueing is usually done with tougher cuts like ribs or brisket which benefit from the drawn out cooking process. Because it is so slow, sauce can be brushed on to the meat throughout the process. Often times damp wood chips are added to the flame to create the smoky flavor that is commonly associated with barbecue.

To grill a steak, it might take somewhere around 15 minutes - give or take a few. With an authentic barbecue, it can take all day, possibly even multiple days, to cook fully. Longer cooking times allow for the smoky flavor to really develop. No matter what fancy contraptions you have or how many different flavors you add, you cannot replicate the smoky barbecue flavor that comes with an authentic barbecue.

Whether you prefer to use the grill or the barbecue, both will produce delicious food for you and your guests. And both are a great excuse to throw a party - everybody wins!

Resources:

Tim Sousa. Grilling vs. Barbecue

Grilling vs. Barbeque.

Barbecue Basics - Barbecueing vs. Grilling.

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