Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate: Your Grill’s New Best Friend

Table of Contents

Benefits Of Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

How To Use A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Tips For Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Different Types Of Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates

How To Choose The Best Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate For You

Cleaning And Maintaining Your Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Recipes To Make With A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is a two-sided grate that is designed to be used in a Pit Barrel Cooker. It is typically made of heavy-duty chrome-plated steel, and it measures 17.5 " in diameter for the Pit Barrel Cooker Original and 13 inches in diameter for the Pit Barrel® Cooker Junior.

The hinged grate allows you to cook two different types of food at the same time, or to cook one type of food on one side while smoking another type of food on the other side. This is a great way to maximize every inch of that capacity on the Pit Barrel Cooker and to cook a complete meal in one go.

Here Are Some Of The Best Benefits Of Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate:

  • Versatility: The hinged grate allows you to cook a wider variety of foods in your Pit Barrel Cooker. You can grill burgers, steaks, and vegetables on one side while smoking ribs or a pork butt on the other side. You can also use the hinged grate to cook foods that are not typically smoked, such as fish, shrimp, or seafood of your choosing.
  • Convenience: The hinged grate makes it easy to add and remove food from your Pit Barrel Cooker, even when it is full. You can simply flip the grate upside down to access the food on the other side.
  • Durability: The Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is made of heavy-duty chrome-plated durable steel, so it is built to last. It is also easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
  • Easy to use: The hinged grate is very easy to use. Along the diameter of the Pit Barrel Cooker, there are little pegs that are welded to the side. Simply place the 18.5 hinged grate on the pegs, with the hinged side facing down. Then, you can add your food to the grate, either on the closed side or on the open side.

To use the hinged grate for grilling, preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to the desired temperature. Then, place your food on the closed side of the grate. If you are cooking more than one type of food, make sure to separate the foods so that they cook evenly.

To use the hinged grate for smoking, add wood chips or pellets to the charcoal basket. Then, place your food on the closed side of the grate. If you are cooking more than one type of food, make sure to separate the foods so that they cook evenly.

Here Are Some Tips For Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate:

  • Use a drip pan to catch grease and drippings from your food. This will make your Pit Barrel Cooker easier to clean.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your food is cooked to the desired temperature.
  • Don't overcrowd the grate. If you overcrowd the grate, your food will not cook evenly.
  • Clean the grate regularly to prolong its lifespan.
  • If you plan on hanging and grilling at the same time. Make sure that you are turning the hinged grate upside down so that when the hinge side is open it is facing down towards the charcoal basket.

The Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is a great addition to your Pit Barrel Cooker. It is versatile, durable, and easy to use. With a hinged grate, you can maximize your drum smoker capacity and cook a complete meal in one go.

Benefits Of Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is a versatile accessory that offers a number of benefits, including:

Versatility

One of the biggest benefits of using a Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is its versatility. With a hinged grate, you can grill and smoke food at the same time, or cook two different types of food at different temperatures. This is a great way to maximize the capacity of your Pit Barrel Cooker and to cook a complete meal in one go.

For example, you could grill burgers and vegetables on one side of the grate while smoking ribs on the other side. Or, you could smoke a brisket on one side of the grate while grilling chicken breasts on the other side. The possibilities are endless!

Convenience

Another benefit of using a Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is its convenience. The hinged grate makes it easy to add and remove food from your Pit Barrel Cooker, even when it is full. You can simply flip the grate upside down to access the food on the other side. This is especially convenient when cooking large or heavy foods, such as brisket or pork butt.

Durability

Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates are made of heavy-duty chrome-plated stainless steel, so they are built to last. They are also easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher. This makes them a great investment for any Pit Barrel Cooker owner.

Easy To Use

Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates are very easy to use. Simply place the grate in the bottom of your Pit Barrel Cooker, with the hinged side facing down. Then, you can add your food to the grate, either on the closed side or on the open side.

Affordability

Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates are also very affordable, especially considering the many benefits they offer. You can typically purchase a hinged grate for around $50-$150.

Overall, Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates are a great investment for any Pit Barrel Cooker owner. They are versatile, convenient, durable, easy to use, and affordable. If you are looking for a way to maximize the capacity of your Pit Barrel Cooker and to cook a complete meal in one go, then a hinged grate is the perfect accessory for you.

Additional Benefits:

  • Even cooking: The hinged grate allows for even cooking on both sides of the food. This is because the heat is distributed evenly throughout the grate.
  • Less mess: The hinged grate helps to reduce mess by catching grease and drippings from the food. This makes it easier to clean your Pit Barrel Cooker after cooking.
  • Healthier cooking: Grilling and smoking food on a hinged grate is a healthier way to cook than frying or baking. This is because it helps to reduce the amount of fat and calories in your food.

If you are looking for a way to improve your Pit Barrel Cooker cooking experience, then a hinged grate is a great option. It is a versatile and affordable accessory that offers a number of benefits, including even cooking, less mess, and healthier cooking.

How To Use A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Using a Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is very easy. Here are the steps involved:

1. Place the grate on the welded grate pegs that are on the inside your Pit Barrel Cooker. Make sure that the hinged side of the grate is facing the down.

2. Add your food to the grate. You can add your food to either the closed side or the open side of the grate.

3. If you are grilling food, preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to the desired temperature.

4. If you are smoking food, add wood chips or pellets to the charcoal basket.

5. Close the lid of your Pit Barrel Cooker and let the food cook.

6. Check on your food periodically to make sure that it is cooking evenly.

7. Once the food is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grate and enjoy!

Tips For Using A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Here are some tips for using a Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate:

  • Use a drip pan. A drip pan will catch grease and drippings from your food, making your Pit Barrel Cooker easier to clean.
  • Use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your food is cooked to the desired temperature.
  • Don't overcrowd the grate. If you overcrowd the grate, your food will not cook evenly.
  • Clean the grate regularly. Cleaning the grate regularly will prolong its lifespan.

Here Are Some Additional Tips:

  • Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker before adding food. This will help to ensure that your food cooks evenly.
  • Adjust the vents on your Pit Barrel Cooker to control the temperature. If the temperature is too high, open the vents slightly. If the temperature is too low, close the vents slightly.
  • Use a variety of woods for smoking. Different woods will impart different flavors to your food. Experiment with different woods to find your favorites.
  • Let your food rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy dish.

Here Are Some Tips Specific Foods:

  • Grilling burgers: Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the burgers on the closed side of the grate and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired temperature.
  • Smoking ribs: Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Add wood chips to the charcoal basket. Place the ribs on the closed side of the grate and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until they are tender and fall-off-the-bone.
  • Grilling chicken breasts: Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken breasts on the closed side of the grate and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  • Smoking pork butt: Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Add wood chips to the charcoal basket. Place the pork butt on the closed side of the grate and smoke for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of grilling and smoking with your Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate!

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Different Types Of Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grates

There are three main types of Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grates:

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel grill grates are the most durable, but they can also be the most expensive. They are also the easiest to clean. Stainless steel grates are a good choice for heavy use and for cooking delicate foods, such as fish or shrimp.

Chrome-Plated Steel

Chrome-plated steel grates are a good balance of durability and affordability. They are also relatively easy to clean. Chrome-plated steel grates are a good all-around choice for most Pit Barrel Cooker owners.

Cast Iron

Cast iron grates are the least expensive, but they can also be the most difficult to clean. Cast iron grates are also susceptible to rust. Cast iron grates are a good choice for those on a budget or for those who want to add a smoky flavor to their food.

When Choosing A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate, Consider The Following Factors:

  • Durability: How often will you be using the grate? If you are planning on using the grate frequently, you will want to choose a durable material, such as stainless steel or chrome-plated steel.
  • Ease of cleaning: How easy is the grate to clean? If you are short on time, you may want to choose a grate that is easy to clean, such as stainless steel or chrome-plated steel.
  • Price: How much are you willing to spend on a grate? Stainless steel grates are the most expensive, while cast iron grates are the least expensive.
  • Cooking style: What types of food do you typically cook? If you cook delicate foods, such as fish or shrimp, you may want to choose a grate that is easy to clean, such as stainless steel or chrome-plated steel. If you cook smoky foods, such as ribs or brisket, you may want to choose a cast iron grate.

No matter what type of Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate you choose, you are sure to enjoy the versatility and convenience of cooking with two grates at the same time.

How To Choose The Best Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate For You

When choosing a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate, there are a few things to consider:

  • Size: Make sure to choose a grate that is the correct size for your Pit Barrel Cooker. The Pit Barrel Cooker Original hinged steel grill grate measures 17.5″ in diameter, while the Pit Barrel Junior hinged grate measures 13 inches in diameter. The hinged grill grate that measures 17.5 inches is designed to fit within the 18.5″ Pit Barrel Cooker
  • Material: Choose a grate that is made of a durable material, such as stainless steel or chrome-plated steel. Cast iron grates are also an option, but they can be more difficult to clean and are susceptible to rust. The 17.5″ diameter and is made out of steel that is chrome plated.
  • Price: Hinged grates can range in price from around $50 to $150. Consider your budget when choosing a grate.
  • Features: Some hinged grates come with additional features, such as a drip pan or a meat thermometer holder. Consider which features are important to you when choosing a grate.

Here Are Some Additional Tips For Choosing The Best Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate For You:

  • Read reviews: Read reviews of different hinged grates before you make a purchase. This will help you to learn about the pros and cons of different grates.
  • Ask for recommendations: Ask your friends, family, or other Pit Barrel Cooker owners for recommendations on hinged grates. They may be able to give you some helpful insights.
  • Consider your needs: What do you need in a hinged grate? Consider your cooking style and budget when making a decision.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to choose the best Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate for you.

Here Are Some Specific Recommendations For Different Types Of Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate:

  • Best overall: Pit Barrel Cooker Original Hinged Grate
  • Best value: Pit Barrel Cooker Junior Hinged Grate
  • Best for durability: Stainless steel hinged grate
  • Best for ease of cleaning: Chrome-plated steel hinged grate
  • Best for smoky flavor: Cast iron hinged grate

No matter what type of Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate you choose, you are sure to enjoy the versatility and convenience of being able to hang food on one side and grill simultaneously. This feature allows you to take advantage of every inch of your smoker. It is also a feature that a standard grill grate doesn't offer.

Cleaning And Maintaining Your Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

Cleaning and maintaining your Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate is important to prolong its lifespan and ensure that your food cooks evenly. Here are some tips:

After Each Use:

  • Scrape off any food debris from the grate. You can use a grill brush or a metal spatula.
    • Wash the grate with warm, soapy water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the grate.
    • Rinse the grate thoroughly with clean water.
    • Dry the grate with a clean towel.

Periodically:

  • Season the grate. This will help to prevent rust and make it easier to clean. To season the grate, apply a thin coat of vegetable oil to the grate and heat it over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
    • Inspect the grate for any damage. If you find any damage, such as cracks or holes, replace the grate.

Here Are Some Additional Tips For Cleaning And Maintaining Your Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate:

  • Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. These can damage the grate and shorten its lifespan.
  • Avoid using a dishwasher. The harsh detergents in dishwashers can damage the grate.
  • Store the grate in a dry place. This will help to prevent rust.

By following these tips, you can keep your Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate clean and in good condition for many years to come.

Here is an image of a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate that has been well-maintained:

As you can see, the grate is free of food debris and rust. It is also well-seasoned, which makes it easy to clean.

Recipes To Make With A Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate

The Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate is a versatile accessory that can be used to cook a wide variety of foods. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Smoked Brisket

Smoked brisket is a classic BBQ dish that is perfect for cooking on a PBC hinged grate. To make smoked brisket, simply rub a brisket with your favorite barbecue rub and place it on the closed side of the grate. Smoke the brisket at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Smoked Burger

Smoked burgers are another classic barbecue dish that is perfect for cooking on a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate. To make grilled burgers, simply form ground beef into patties and season them with salt and pepper. Preheat the closed side of the grate to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Smoked Chicken Breasts

Smoked chicken breasts are a healthy and delicious option for cooking on a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate. To make grilled chicken breasts, simply pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Preheat the closed side of the grate to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Smoked Vegetables

Smoked vegetables are a great side dish for any barbecue meal. To grill vegetables, simply slice your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, onions, and peppers, and brush them with olive oil. Preheat the closed side of the grate to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.

Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers are a light and refreshing option for cooking on a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate. To make shrimp skewers, simply thread shrimp onto skewers and brush them with your favorite marinade. Preheat the closed side of the grate to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

These are just a few smoked sides that you can make with a Pit Barrel Cooker hinged grate. With a little creativity, you can use the hinged grate to cook a wide variety of foods.

Here Is A Bonus Recipe For A Delicious And Versatile Barbecue Sauce That You Can Use WIth Any Of The Recipes Above:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

3. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.

This barbecue sauce is perfect for ribs, chicken, burgers, and vegetables. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for chicken fingers or onion rings. Enjoy!

Conclusion

The Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is a versatile and convenient accessory that can help you to take your Pit Barrel Cooker cooking to the next level. With a hinged grate, you can grill and smoke food at the same time, or cook two different types of food at different temperatures. This is a great way to maximize the capacity of your Pit Barrel Cooker and to cook a complete meal in one go.


The Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate is also very durable and easy to clean. It is made of heavy-duty chrome-plated steel and it can be cleaned in the dishwasher. This makes it a great investment for any Pit Barrel Cooker owner.

If you are looking for a way to improve your Pit Barrel Cooker cooking experience, then a hinged grate is a great option. It is a versatile and affordable accessory that offers a number of benefits, including:

  • Versatility: Grill and smoke food at the same time, or cook two different types of food at different temperatures.
  • Convenience: Add and remove food from your Pit Barrel Cooker easily, even when it is full.
  • Durability: Made of heavy-duty chrome-plated steel.
  • Easy to clean: Dishwasher safe.

With a Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate, you can cook a wider variety of foods, cook more food at once, and cook food more evenly. So what are you waiting for? Order your Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate today!

Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.

Pit Barrel Cooker Hinged Grate FAQ

Q: WHAT IS A HINGED GRATE?

A: A hinged grate is a two-sided grate that is designed to be used in a grill or smoker. It is typically made of heavy-duty steel and has a hinge that allows you to flip the grate over to cook different types of food at the same time.

Q: WHAT GRILLGRATES LAST THE LONGEST?

A: GrillGrates are made of high-quality aluminum and are designed to last for many years. However, the lifespan of your GrillGrates will depend on how well you care for them. To extend the lifespan of your GrillGrates, be sure to clean them regularly and season them before each use.

Q: WHICH SIDE OF GRILLGRATES GOES UP?

A: The flat side of the GrillGrates should go up. The raised side of the GrillGrates is designed to sear and sear food evenly.

Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CAST IRON AND PORCELAIN GRILLGRATES?

A: Cast iron GrillGrates are more durable than porcelain GrillGrates, but they can also be more difficult to clean. Porcelain GrillGrates are easier to clean, but they can be more susceptible to chipping and scratching.

Q: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A HINGED GRATE?

A: Hinged grates offer a number of benefits, including:


  • Versatility: You can grill and smoke food at the same time, or cook two different types of food at different temperatures.
  • Convenience: You can easily add and remove food from your grill or smoker, even when it is full.
  • Durability: Hinged grates are typically made of heavy-duty steel and are designed to last.
  • Easy to clean: Hinged grates are typically dishwasher safe.
Q: WHAT TYPES OF FOOD CAN I COOK ON A HINGED GRATE?

A: Hinged grates offer a number of benefits, including:


  • Versatility: You can grill and smoke food at the same time, or cook two different types of food at different temperatures.
  • Convenience: You can easily add and remove food from your grill or smoker, even when it is full.
  • Durability: Hinged grates are typically made of heavy-duty steel and are designed to last.
  • Easy to clean: Hinged grates are typically dishwasher safe.
Q: WHAT TYPES OF FOOD CAN I COOK ON A HINGED GRATE?

A: You can cook a wide variety of foods on a hinged grate, including:


  • Meat: Burgers, steaks, chicken, pork, ribs, etc.
  • Seafood: Fish, shrimp, scallops, etc.
  • Vegetables: Zucchini, onions, peppers, asparagus, etc.
  • Fruit: Peaches, pineapple, watermelon, etc.
Q: HOW DO I CLEAN A HINGED GRATE?

A: To clean a hinged grate, simply remove it from your grill or smoker and brush off any food debris with a grill brush. Then, wash the grate with warm, soapy water. Rinse the grate thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.

Q: HOW DO I SEASON A HINGED GRATE?

A: To season a hinged grate, apply a thin coat of vegetable oil to the grate and heat it over medium heat for 10-15 minutes. This will help to prevent rust and make it easier to clean.

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About the author

CJ Ferrara

CJ Ferrara is a BBQ enthusiast, who shares his passion for grilling and smoking meats with the readers of Smoky Beginnings. When he isn't grilling, smoking meat, or writing BBQ-focused articles you can catch him spending time with his family and enjoying a sporting event.


Find out more about CJ on our About Us page


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