A To Z List Of The Best Bbq Wood Pellets
A pellet grill/smoker is only as good as the BBQ pellets you put into it. The type/quality of the BBQ wood pellets you use will impact temperature performance and smoke flavour. There are many pellet flavours including Apple, Hickory, Mapel, Oak and Walnut to name but a few. However, some brands are hardwood blended pellets whereas others are 100% single wood species.
In this article, I provide details on over 20 brands of BBQ wood pellets, their range of flavours, whether they are 100% single wood species or hardwood blended pellets, their typical price and where they are available. I also provide tips on how to get the best deal when buying BBQ wood pellets and how to test pellet quality. Finally, I discuss the new kid on the block, charcoal pellets and their special attributes compared to all other hardwood BBQ pellets.
Grilling On The Memphis Pro:
The Memphis Pro is both grill and a pellet smoker equally, and thats not something I can say about most pellet grills. With a low end temperature of 180 and a high end of 650, this unit is equipped to both smoke and grill with ease, using the direct flame insert. Lets cover the grilling aspect first.
Over the last 4 months putting this unit to the test, weve grilled a bunch of things. The first one Ill mention is the Filet Mignon that we made for Moms birthday. We wanted to reverse sear these steaks, and the Memphis is built for that. We set the Memphis grill to 180°, and put the steaks on to smoke until they hit an internal temperature of 110°. Once they hit temp, we pulled the steaks off and turned the grill to the max temperature of 650° and set the controller to direct flame cooking.
We took out the deflector plate and replaced it with the direct flame attachment on the Savorizer. After about 10 minutes of getting up to temperature, we had a great flame to sear with, and we finished the steaks off at a nice Medium Rare just the way Mom likes.
After the steaks came off, we put on some Argentinian Shrimp Skewers and seared them over the direct flame. It didnt take long, and even though we soaked our wood skewers for a couple of hours before we put them on, we still burned through the skewers faster than we thought because of the high heat. So, just know that Memphis grills isnt messing around when it comes to high heat grilling over the direct flame insert.
Legal Disclaimers And Warnings
Product packaging, owners manuals, installation instructions, and/or operating instructions may include more information than what is shown on our website. The content on our site is intended to be used for reference purposes only. Please fully read all included manuals and documentation before installing or using this product. WARNING for California residents: this product may contain chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects, cancer, or other reproductive harm.
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Louisiana Estate Series Built
Louisiana Grills have a vast array of options when it comes to grills. This grill features plenty of cooking space that gives you 860 square inches of cooking surface, which includes an upper rack.
Other features on the grill include cast-iron cooking surface, stainless steel construction, a stainless steel body, and a large hidden pellet hopper.
This pellet grill is able to sustain cooking temperature from 180 to 600-degrees Fahrenheit. Included with the grill is a programmable meat probe so that you can cook your meats to that perfect temperature. The Louisiana Estate Series built-in pellet grill comes in at $1,999.00.
Higher Cooking/searing Temperatures Than Other Pellet Grills
As Ive stated above with a luxury pellet you would expect and should expect there to be features available that are just not found on lower specification pellet grills/smokers. Well, with the Memphis pellet grills they can reach higher temperatures than most other pellet grills on the market today could only dream of.
As I briefly referenced above, the Memphis elite can reach 700 degrees. Most premium pellet grills can only reach a maximum of 500 degrees. However, there are some differences between the Memphis pellet grills in terms of their maximum temperature capabilities.
- Memphis 26 Beale Street Pellet Grill Maximum Temperature = 550 degrees
- Memphis 28 Pro Pellet Grill Maximum Temperature = 650 degrees
- Memphis 39 Elite Pellet Grill Maximum Temperature = 700 degrees
While the Beale Street and Pro models do have lower maximum temperature settings compared to the Elite they are lower-priced units. While the Pro features a dual convection fan as does the Elite the Beale Street just features a single convection fan, hence the lower maximum temperature the fire can achieve. However, the Beale Street at 550 degrees still achieves a higher cooking temperature than any other premium class pellet grill currently on the market.
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Introduction To Memphis Pellet Grills/smokers
Memphis grills are based in Bloomington, Minnesota, USA and since 2016 they have been manufacturing the range of luxury pellet grills below. Namely their smallest unit the 26 Beale Street, 28 Pro and their largest most sophisticated unit the 39 Elite.
With the assistance of some of Memphiss promotional material, Ill discuss the features which make these grills standout out as a luxury product. However, I also want to discuss the differences between the individual Memphis grill models. For instance, different grades of stainless steel are used on some models and the peak temperature setting does vary depending on the model chosen. All will be explained below.
Why You’ll Love Recteq
Instead of having to deal with countless grilling annoyances like baffles, temperature issues, or messy charcoal. Simply set a temperature on your recteq pellet grill, and you’re ready to become the neighborhood hero. Our commitment to superior build quality, components, warranty, temperature control, and customer service ensures that you get everything you pay for and then some.
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Direct Flame Broiling Capabilities
Each of the Memphis pellet grills provides for the option of direct-flame broiling. For instance, you may have been slow cooking burgers/steaks etc to provide them with as much flavour as possible from the wood pellets. However, to finish them off you might want to sear/caramelise the surface and give them that classic grilled appearance.
Within the centre of the flavourizer , there is a removable easy access insert positioned above the firepot. Well, the easy access insert can be replaced with the direct flame insert. There is a specific procedure that Memphis grills recommend when using the direct flame insert shown in the video below.
The Direct Flame Insert enables all Memphis pellet grills to flame broil/sear: Video Memphisgrills.com
Memphis grills are not the only pellet grills to offer flame broiling, its even found on budget/practical class pellet grills such as the Camp Chef Woodwind. Its also available on a premium class pellet grill the Weber SmokeFire. However, as has been the case with the Weber SmokeFire, offering flame broiling capabilities safely and effectively on a pellet grill should not be taken for granted.
If excessive grease/fat is not kept away from the flames its going to lead to issues. However, as you will notice on the Memphis grills direct flame insert most of the grease/fat is still directed onto the grease tray. Hence, the majority of the grease dripping down from the food does not come in contact with the flames.
Free Shipping On Orders Over $49
Ship your entire order to your home for free, especially the big stuff! *Continental US only
When will my item arrive?
Once shipped, items usually arrive within 3-5 business days. While UPS and FedEx are our carriers for smaller items, be aware that larger items and orders are shipped via freight. The freight process is a bit more complicated than what weve all come to expect for small parcels, so its important that youre prepared and understand whats required of you well before delivery day.
- Most freight products ship on a pallet
- Some carriers will call to schedule a delivery window, while others will deliver the shipment to a reasonably accessible location closest to your residence .
- Well specify which process you can expect in your shipping confirmation email.
For carriers that schedule delivery appointments:
Carriers that schedule delivery appointments require you to be home for delivery and provide your signature. The delivery is made with a semi-truck with lift gate services, and the shipment is dropped off at the curb. If you authorize the shipping company to leave the delivery without a signature, BBQGuys cant be held responsible for damages that occur during delivery. As complicated as this process may seem, weve only scratched the surface here please review our detailed guide to freight delivery so there are no surprises when a freight shipment heads your way.
For carriers that deliver without an appointment:
1-3 Business Days
$6.95 Flat-Rate Shipping
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Memphis Grills Beale Street Wi
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This item:$2,099.00$125.00$99.00
- Intelligent Temperature Control with WiFi gives you the freedom to control your grill anywhere
- Single fan convection system allows for even heat distribution and consistent convectional cooking
- 12 pound capacity hopper allows for up to 18 hours of unattended cooking time at 350 degrees
- Temperature range of 180 – 550 degrees Fahrenheit for a variety of smoking styles
- Can read temperatures from up to three probes at once so you can monitor multiple dishes
How Pellet Grills Work
Have you ever wanted to create your own BBQ style smoked ribs or a delicious slow-cooked brisket, but dont know where to start? Using a great pellet grill makes it a breeze to achieve that great taste to impress friends and family. Pellet grills are relatively new to the grilling industry and give the user necessary tools to be able to smoke whatever they like with the simple push of a button to control your grill temperature. Wood pellets use an auger to move the pellets from a hopper to a fire-pot that ignites the pellets creating a fire, then using a fan to create convection heat effect to evenly cook the food and add smoky flavor.
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Memphis Grills Pro Wi
Memphis Grills Pro Wi-Fi Controlled 28-Inch 304 Stainless Steel Built-In Pellet Grill, VGB0001S
Memphis Grills Pro patented IntelliBurn Technology utilizes secondary combustion for the most efficient and clean burn available in wood fire grilling today! Precision smoking, roasting, baking and searing are now possible with more convenience and versatility than ever before. Other VGB0002S features include increased starting power, quicker startup & cooldown, improved temperature consistency and pellet efficiency, and less maintenance.
Big and bold, this built in wood pellet grill and smoker is the ultimate addition to any outdoor kitchen. With up to 1,275 sq. inches of cooking surface , a large 24 lb. pellet hopper, blower, and precise temperature control capable of anything from 180° to 700°, the Memphis Elite Built In ITC3 isnt just a BBQ grill. Its truly a revolutionary cooking appliance. . Also available as a cart model.
- Cooking Grid Dimensions: 25 X 17 5/8″
- Main Grilling Area: 562 Sq. Inches
- Hopper Capacity: 18 Pounds
- Cut Out Width: 30 1/4″
- Cut Out Depth: 24 1/2″
- Cut Out Height: 16 3/4″
- Weight: 165 lbs
Is The Memphis Pro Built
After many months with the Memphis Pro, its easily the best pellet grill that Ive had the privilege to cook on. From classic low and slow bbq meats to pizzas and enchiladas, bread baking, grilling steaks and everything in between, its the one grill thats irreplaceable in our outdoor kitchen.
If the Memphis Pro is in your budget for your outdoor space, get it. You wont regret it.
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Memphis Grills Beale Street Wifi 26 Pellet Grill
The Memphis Grills Beale Street pellet grill gives you complete command of the entire cooking process with an integrated Wi-Fi controller for the Intelligent Temperature Control function, allowingyou to grill from anywhere. Team BBQGuys
- Stress-tested, heavy-duty auger will reliably see you through cook after cook
- Full-Coverage Diverter Plate evenly distributes heat & smoke for better cooks
- Digital PID controller maintains stable, precise temps for consistent results
Victory features robust construction backed by a solid warranty and astounding survival testing especially for the Entry-Level class. Team BBQGuys
More: Pellet Grills By Price
As with any built-in grill, pellet cookers need to be mounted into a solid, fire-proof enclosure. Pellet grills require electricity so, that enclosure must be wired for power. This means dealing with all the standard electrical safety concerns for outdoor installation. The makers of these grills recommended that you add the main power switch to any pellet grill installation. This will cut power to the grill when not in use, reducing the likelihood of failure of electric components.
I suggest that you read through the installation guide provided by the manufacturer before making a purchase. This will help avoid any complications with installation.
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The Beale Street Premium/luxury Pellet Grill
All Memphis pellet grills with their 550-700 degree maximum cooking temperatures, full stainless steel construction and heavy-duty components fall into the luxury pellet grill class. However, their lastest and smallest unit The Beale Street is actually in terms of price point straddling the premium/luxury class category.
Therefore, Beale Street is a new consideration and possibility for someone looking for the high quality/durable full stainless steel construction of the larger Memphis pellet grills at a lower price point.
An overview of the Memphis Beale Street pellet grill. This 26 grill is the smallest grill Memphis has produced to date and the cheapest full stainless steel grill you can currently buy: Video Memphisgrills.com
As I referenced above, the Beale Street does have a lower maximum cooking temperature of 550 degrees compared to the Pro and Elite models. However, thats still higher than the 500 degrees on premium pellet grills models such as the Traeger Timberline.
Furthermore, the Timberline does not offer flame broiling functionality where the Beal Street does. However, as can be seen in the video above, with the Beale Street the direct flame insert and genie tool are optional extras.
Memphis Wood Pellet Grill Reviews
While I know a lot about how to make wood pellets and how to analyse and compare the features on a wide range of pellet grills Im not a BBQ Pit Master. Therefore, when I write my posts and research different pellet grills I like to find the best reviews I can from BBQ professionals and owners to include in my posts.
Below Ive included a quick review on the Memphis Elite from Malcolm Reed who has one of the most popular BBQ channels on YouTube. Malcolm appears very impressed with the stainless steel build quality of the Memphis grill along with the accuracy of the temperature controller.
Malcolm Reed of HowToBBQRight discusses his thoughts on the Memphis Elite pellet grill
I also wanted to include some feedback/review from an owner of the much more affordable Memphis Beale Street pellet grill. Well, below Ive included a video I found of a Memphis Elite owner whose brother had just received delivery of the Beale Street.
The reason I wanted to included this particular review is as an Elite owner they have a better perspective than anyone to measure how the much more affordable Beale Street compares to a top-of-the-line Memphis Elite. In fact in the video below you see a side-by-side cook on both grills for comparison.
A comparison/review of the Memphis Beale Street against the Memphis Elite
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More: Best Pellet Grills
When considering a built-in pellet grill, it is important to consider its layout. The model Memphis Grills has a rear-mounted pellet hopper where the wood pellets are added and stored. This means that they must be accessible from behind. This can be something of a design limit. However, these are the best on the market even considering this limitation and their high price. Make sure you read through the installation instructions before making your purchase so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
Memphis Pellet Grill Wifi Control Panels
As well as all Memphis pellet grills using Intelligent Temperature Control to provide accuracy within a 5-degree range up the grills maximum temperature setting, they are all WiFi capable. Many practical and premium class pellet grills are now offering WiFi integration.
However, Memphis have been offering this functionality on their grills since 2016. WiFi integration is really a must-have feature for many pellet grills owners today to monitor and adjust the temperature of the grill when inside the house or out and about.
You do find some grills with purely Bluetooth integration such as the Cuisinart Woodcreek and Twin Oaks pellet grills. However, Bluetooth is limited to within 30m or so outside and significantly less than that when the signal has to travel through walls.
Once the WiFi connection between the Memphis pellet grill and your homes WiFi network is established you can monitor the grill while youre at work or at a game/down the shops. Ive not had a chance as yet to review how the features of the Memphis app compare to Traeger WiFire or Camp Chef Connect, but I hope to do that at some point in the future.
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