This review dives deep into the OnlyFire cast iron grill grate, assessing its performance and value as a potential upgrade for your Gourmet BBQ system. We'll cover everything from the initial unboxing and pre-seasoning process to its use in cooking delicious New York strip steaks, highlighting its unique design features and ease of cleaning. Get ready to discover whether this grate lives up to the hype and delivers on its promise of enhanced grilling versatility.The OnlyFire grate boasts a robust construction and thoughtful design elements that make it stand out. We explore the benefits of its removable centerpiece, enabling precise heat control and effortless addition of wood chips for smoking. Expect detailed insights into its performance with both direct and indirect cooking methods, along with practical advice on cleaning and maintenance to ensure long-lasting durability. Find out if the OnlyFire grate is a worthwhile investment for elevating your grilling game.
Pros And Cons
- Well-packaged for shipment and storage.
- Includes a removable centerpiece for easy access and charcoal addition.
- Pre-seasoned, but reviewer recommends additional seasoning.
- Durable and long-lasting with proper care.
- Creates good sear marks and flavor on food.
Read more: Traeger Grill Grates: Top 10 Best Reviews & Buying Guide
Unboxing and Packaging
The OnlyFire cast iron grate arrived in a large overwrap, likely added by the distribution center. Inside, the grate was securely packaged in a tight-fitting box with plenty of tape. This ensured the grate arrived undamaged and free of debris.
Further protection was provided by a well-fitted styrofoam enclosure with a removable centerpiece. This clever design prevented the grate from shifting during shipping and storage. The grate itself was also enclosed in a plastic bag, adding an extra layer of protection against dust and moisture.
Initial Inspection and Seasoning
Upon opening, I performed a quick inspection to check for any damage or defects. The grate appeared to be pre-seasoned, but as with any cast iron, I prefer to season it myself for optimal performance and longevity.
I used avocado oil, known for its high smoke point, to season the grate. This oil helps create a protective layer on the surface, preventing rust and adding to its durability. The process involved heating the grate and applying a generous amount of oil.
Design and Functionality
The grate features a removable centerpiece which allows easy access for adding charcoal or wood chips. This is a fantastic design feature that improves control over the cooking process and makes it very easy to adjust the heat levels.
I used this feature to add hickory wood for smoking. The ability to easily adjust the charcoal levels and add wood chips gives this grate added versatility for various cooking styles.
Cooking Performance: New York Strip Steaks
I used the OnlyFire grate to cook New York strip steaks, employing both indirect and direct cooking methods. The Vortex setup in the center directs heat upward for even cooking. The design provides both a direct and indirect heat zone, offering incredible versatility.
The steaks were first seared over direct heat in the center, achieving a beautiful sear and those signature grill marks. They were then moved to the indirect heat zone for a more even cook. This method resulted in perfectly cooked steaks.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the grate after use was straightforward. I simply used a water solution while the grate was still hot to steam off any food residue.
After cleaning, I let the grate dry completely before applying another coat of avocado oil for added protection. This easy cleaning and maintenance make this grate a joy to use.
Final Verdict
Overall, the OnlyFire cast iron grill grate impressed me with its robust construction, thoughtful design, and exceptional cooking performance. The removable centerpiece and dual-zone cooking capabilities add versatility. The quality of the grate and the ease of cleaning make it a worthwhile investment for serious grill enthusiasts.
I highly recommend this product for anyone looking to upgrade their grilling experience. It's durable, easy to use, and delivers delicious results. From steaks to chicken wings, this grate promises versatility and consistently great food.