What Is A Broiler? (everything you need to know)
The correct answer to this question varies based on your location across the Atlantic. In the US, the term “broiler” is used, while in the UK and Australia, the same is referred to as a “grill.”
However, just to add to the confusion, there is a kitchen appliance on the market which is known as a turbo broiler.
We have searched our extensive database and set our researchers on a mission to find out all there is to know about broilers. If you want the complete details on what a broiler is, continue reading.
What Is A Broiler?
For the American readers, a broiler is the heating element at the top of your oven. If you’re in the UK or Australia, you’ll recognise it as the grill. While in the US, grilling refers to cooking on what would be known as a BBQ in the UK and Australia.
When UK citizens speak about a broiler, they are referring to a “turbo broiler”.
What Is A Turbo Broiler?
A Turbo Broiler is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including; roasting, baking, and grilling (broiling). It uses a combination of heat, convection, and infrared technology to cook food quickly and evenly.
It is a great option for busy cooks who want to prepare a meal quickly whilst maintaining flavour and quality.
The Turbo Broiler features a top heating element that generates heat, accompanied by a fan to circulate this hot air, ensuring the food cooks evenly and quickly by focusing the heat directly on it.
Some models may have a heating element at the bottom as well, however, in this case, the food is usually cooked by the heat rising up, rather than by the fan circulating the hot air.
What Are The Pros & Cons Of A Turbo Broiler?
Now we have some idea of what a turbo broiler is and how it works, let’s look at the reasons for and against buying one.
What Are The Pros Of A Turbo Broiler?
The main benefits of owning a turbo broiler are;
- Quick and even cooking
The combination of heat, convection, and infrared technology in a Turbo Broiler allows for quick and even cooking of food. - Versatile
The Turbo Broiler can be used for a variety of cooking methods, such as roasting, baking, and grilling, making it a versatile appliance for any kitchen. - Energy-efficient
Turbo Broilers are more energy efficient than traditional ovens, as they use less energy to cook food. - Healthy cooking
The Turbo Broiler can cook food with little or no oil, making it a healthy cooking option. - Easy to clean
The removable tray and the interior of the broiler can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth, and the exterior can be cleaned with a mild detergent.
What Are The Cons Of A Turbo Broiler?
The disadvantages of owning a turbo broiler include;
- Limited capacity
Turbo Broilers typically have a smaller capacity than traditional ovens, so they may not be suitable for cooking large meals or catering for large families. - Limited temperature range
Turbo Broilers often have a limited temperature range, which may not be suitable for some types of cooking. - Can be noisy
The fan in the Turbo Broiler can be noisy, which can be a nuisance if you plan on using it while entertaining guests or watching TV. - Limited features
Turbo Broilers usually have limited features compared to traditional ovens, like self-cleaning options and multiple cooking modes.
What Features Should You Look For When Purchasing A Turbo Broiler?
There are several features to consider before buying a turbo broiler. They include;
Capacity
Turbo broilers vary in size, so you should consider the capacity of the turbo broiler and whether it’s sufficient for your needs. If you have a large family for example, you might want to consider one of the larger capacity models.
Timer
Having a turbo broiler with a built-in timer might be advantageous to you. It allows you to set the timer and automatically switch the broiler off when the time is up and the food is cooked.
Safety Features
A lot of Turbo Broiler models come with safety features including automatic shut off, overheat protection, and a cool to the touch handle.
Noise Level
Some Turbo Broiler models have fans that can be quite loud. Before purchasing, it’s important to check the noise level, as high noise could be problematic in your home.
Warranty
We always recommend buying a reputable brand from a reliable retailer as this will ensure you get the benefits of a decent warranty.
Easy Clean
Some Turbo Broiler models feature an easy clean function which will make it a far more convenient appliance overall.
Price
Turbo broilers range in price from the mid £30s to more than £100. Often the difference can be due to the capacity and brand/model, but it’s worth shopping around.
Is It Worth Buying A Broiler?
Whether or not it’s worth buying a turbo broiler depends on your particular cooking needs, budget and preferences. If you are looking for a space efficient, energy efficient and convenient appliance a turbo broiler could fit the bill.
However, if you are catering for a large family or function, a turbo broiler might not have sufficient capacity to cook for all of your guests.
SEE ALSO: Air Fryer vs Broiler – Which Is Best?
SEE ALSO: What Is A Belgian Waffle Maker?
Frequently Asked Questions
A broiler, also known as a “turbo broiler”, is a small kitchen appliance that cooks food quickly and evenly using heat, convection, and infrared technology. It is used for various cooking methods and has a heating element and fan for even cooking. It is a good choice for busy cooks who want to prepare meals quickly without compromising on flavour or quality.
No, the word “broiler” means something different in the US. In the UK, what the Americans refer to as a broiler is called a grill. This can be confusing because in the US a grill is what the British call the BBQ.
In the UK, broiling is referred to as grilling. It involves using direct heat from above, similar to what Americans call broiling. Additionally, what Americans call “grilling” (cooking over hot coals or gas outdoors) is often termed as barbecuing in the UK.
Broiling is the same as grilling in the UK, but in the US broiling uses a heat source above the food and grilling uses a heat source below the food.
If you’re referring to a US broiler, the broiler is typically situated at the top of the oven and is a separate heating element which allows you to broil food as opposed to baking or roasting it.
