Barbecue Turners: Buying Guide

Barbecue turners play a vital role for grill enthusiasts, regardless of their experience level. Whether you're a seasoned barbecuer or a beginner, the right turner can significantly impact your cooking results. Ensuring your food is cooked perfectly, from burgers to steaks, relies on having the right turner. However, with numerous options on the market, selecting the ideal one can be challenging. To assist you in making the right choice for your barbecue needs, we have compiled this comprehensive guide.

What are Barbecue Turners?

Barbecue turners, also known as grill spatulas or grill turners, are essential tools used for flipping and turning food on a barbecue or grill. They are designed with a long handle and a wide, flat, and sometimes slotted blade. The blade is typically made of stainless steel or another heat-resistant material to withstand the high temperatures of grilling.

Barbecue turners are used to flip burgers, steaks, chicken, fish, vegetables, and other foods on the grill. The long handle allows you to reach the food without getting too close to the heat, ensuring your safety while grilling. The wide blade provides stability and makes it easier to flip and turn the food without it falling apart.

Types Of Barbecue Turners

There are several types of barbecue turners available, each designed to suit different cooking needs. Here are some common types:

1. Standard Grill Spatula: This is the most basic type of barbecue turner, featuring a long handle and a flat, broad, metal blade. It's ideal for flipping burgers, steaks, chicken breasts, vegetables, and other small to medium-sized items on the grill.
2. Perforated Grill Spatula: Similar to the standard spatula, but with small holes or perforations on the blade. These holes allow excess grease and juices to drain away, making it great for grilling fatty meats or items that release a lot of moisture.
3. Fish Turner: Fish turners are designed specifically for grilling delicate fish fillets. They usually have a longer, thinner, and more flexible blade to easily slide under the fish without breaking it apart.
4. Offset Spatula: Offset spatulas have a bend or angle in the blade, which provides extra clearance between your hand and the hot grill surface. This design allows you to flip and turn food more comfortably and safely.
5. Slotted Spatula: Slotted spatulas have slots or gaps in the blade, which helps drain excess liquids from the food as you flip it. They are useful for grilling items like pancakes or foods with marinades or sauces.

How To Use Barbecue Turner

To use a barbecue turner effectively, follow these steps:

1. Position the turner: Hold the barbecue turner with a firm grip, making sure your hand is away from the hot grill. Position the turner at the base of the food, close to the grill grates.
2. Lift and flip: Apply gentle pressure and lift the food slightly off the grill grates using the turner. Flip the food over in one smooth motion, ensuring it lands back on the grill grates.
3. Repeat as needed: Depending on the cooking time and desired doneness, you may need to flip the food multiple times. Use the turner to lift and flip the food until it is cooked to your liking.
4. Remove the food: Once the food is cooked, use the barbecue turner to carefully lift it off the grill grates. Place it on a serving platter or plate.

After using the barbecue turner, clean it thoroughly with warm soapy water. Rinse it well and let it dry before storing it. Always exercise caution when using a barbecue turner to avoid burns or accidents. 

Things to Consider When Choosing A Barbecue Turner

Choosing the right barbecue turner is essential for achieving excellent grilling results and ensuring a pleasant outdoor cooking experience. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a barbecue turner:

1. Material: Look for a turner made from high-quality and durable materials. Stainless steel is a popular choice as it is rust-resistant, easy to clean, and can handle high heat. Avoid plastic or low-quality materials that may melt or warp over time.
2. Size and shape: The size and shape of the turner should be suitable for the types of food you plan to grill. A wider turner is great for flipping large burgers and fish fillets, while a slimmer, more elongated turner is useful for delicate items like vegetables or seafood.
3. Handle length: A longer handle allows you to keep a safe distance from the hot grill, reducing the risk of burns. It also provides better leverage and control while flipping food. However, if the handle is too long, it may become cumbersome to use.
4. Handle material: The handle should be made from heat-resistant material that offers a comfortable grip. Look for options with heat-resistant rubber or silicone coatings to prevent burns and ensure a secure hold.
5. Angled or flat turner: Some barbecue turners have an angled blade, which helps to slide easily under the food for flipping. Others have a flat blade, which is better for delicate items that might break apart easily. Consider the types of food you'll be grilling and choose the appropriate shape.
6. Spatula thickness: A thicker spatula will be sturdier and more suitable for heavy-duty grilling tasks, like handling large cuts of meat or hefty vegetables. Thinner spatulas are better for delicate items and might also be more flexible for easier maneuvering.
7. Cleaning and maintenance: Opt for a barbecue turner that is easy to clean and maintain. Dishwasher-safe options can save you time and effort, but if not, ensure that the turner can be easily hand-washed without much fuss.
8. Price and brand reputation: Prices of barbecue turners can vary significantly, so it's essential to find a balance between quality and affordability. Additionally, consider purchasing from reputable brands known for producing reliable and durable grilling tools.
9. Customer reviews: Before making a final decision, read customer reviews and feedback to gain insights into real-world experiences with the turner. Pay attention to comments on durability, functionality, and overall satisfaction.

By taking these factors into account, you'll be better equipped to choose a barbecue turner that suits your grilling needs and enhances your outdoor cooking adventures.