This review dives into the Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame Grill, putting its advertised woodfire technology to the test using Royal Oak charcoal pellets instead of the recommended wood pellets. We explore whether this gas grill, designed for woodfire enhancement, can truly replicate the smoky flavor profile of traditional wood-fired cooking using an unconventional fuel source. The speed and efficiency of the grill are examined, focusing on heating time and cooking performance. We grilled chuck eye steaks to assess the grill's ability to achieve a perfect sear and internal temperature, while also evaluating the impact (or lack thereof) of the charcoal pellets on the overall flavor of the finished product.Our experiment reveals some surprising results. While the Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame boasts incredibly fast heating—reaching over 600 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes—the charcoal pellets failed to impart a noticeable smoky flavor to the steaks. The juicy and delicious results highlight the grill's speed and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight cooking. However, for those seeking an authentic wood-fired taste, using the recommended wood pellets is crucial for achieving the desired smoky profile. This review ultimately determines if the Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame lives up to its name and expectations, considering both its strengths and limitations.
Pros And Cons
- Heats up quickly
- Cooks food quickly
- Makes delicious steak
- Woodfire technology with charcoal pellets does not work as intended
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Charcoal Pellets Experiment
I decided to test the Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame's woodfire technology using Royal Oak charcoal pellets instead of the recommended wood pellets. The grill is designed for gas grilling with a woodfire enhancement, but I was curious to see how charcoal would perform.
After about five minutes, I observed some smoke, but the smell wasn't of burning wood, but rather charcoal. It raised a question – could this grill truly replicate the smoky flavor profile of wood-fired cooking with charcoal pellets alone?
Chuck Eye Steaks and Quick Cooking
For my grilling test, I used two chuck eye steaks, a budget-friendly option that I picked up at the store for around $12. The grill heated up incredibly fast, reaching over 600 degrees in minutes.
This rapid heating is a major advantage for busy weeknights. The steaks were on the grill for only a few minutes before achieving the perfect sear and internal temperature.
Cooking and Results
The cooking process was impressively quick. After a couple of minutes on the grill, the steaks were beautifully seared and cooked to a perfect medium. The intense heat from the Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame allowed for a fast and even cook.
The final question was whether the charcoal pellets imparted any noticeable smoky flavor. The result: no discernable charcoal taste. The steak was juicy and delicious, but tasted like a perfectly grilled steak, not one smoked with charcoal.
Final Verdict
The Ninja Woodfire Flex Flame is a remarkable grill. It boasts incredibly fast heating, making it perfect for weeknight grilling. The resulting steak was juicy and delicious, although it lacked any significant smoky flavor from the charcoal pellets.
While the woodfire technology didn't deliver a pronounced smoky flavor with charcoal pellets, its rapid heating and efficient cooking capabilities make it a strong contender for those who prioritize speed and convenience. If wood-fired flavor is a must-have, then wood pellets should be used instead.