What is a rotisserie attachment?
A rotisserie attachment is an accessory that can be added to your grill or smoker to allow for rotisserie-style cooking. It consists of a motorized spit rod that rotates over the heat source, slowly turning food to promote even cooking. Many grill manufacturers offer rotisserie kits as optional add-ons for their grills. Aftermarket rotisserie kits are also available that are designed to fit multiple grill models.
Benefits of using a rotisserie attachment
There are several benefits to using a rotisserie attachment:
- Even cooking: The constant rotation exposes all sides of the food evenly to the heat source, preventing hot and cold spots.
- Self-basting: As juices drip down, they coat and moisturize the food.
- Versatility: In addition to whole chickens, roasts and ribs, a rotisserie can be used for everything from vegetables to pineapples.
- Added flavor: The rotating motion allows seasoning, marinades and drippings to penetrate deep into the meat.
- Healthier cooking: Food cooks in its own juices instead of sitting in grease, resulting in fewer calories.
- Hands-off: Once loaded, a rotisserie doesn’t require any turning or monitoring.
- Showpiece: A rotisserie chicken or roast makes an attractive presentation at the table.
Downsides of rotisserie attachments
Some potential downsides include:
- Cost: Rotisserie kits can range from $50 on the low end to over $200 for heavy-duty models, so they represent a significant added investment.
- Capacity limitations: Consumer rotisseries are designed for smaller foods like chickens and roasts, not larger cuts.
- Added time: It takes longer to thoroughly cook food on a rotisserie compared to grilling.
- Juice drips: Drippings from the rotating food can cause flare-ups.
- Monitoring: You still need to keep an eye on the food and replenish fuel as needed.
- Electric models: Some rotisseries rely on electric heating elements, limiting their versatility.
Factors to consider
If you’re debating adding a rotisserie to your outdoor cooking arsenal, here are some factors to weigh:
Your grill’s capabilities
– What type of grill do you have – gas, charcoal, kamado style smoker? Make sure the rotisserie attachment is compatible.
– How much clearance do you have inside the lid? Measure to ensure longer foods like roasts will fit.
– Is there room on the sides for the motor? Some grills have sloped lids that limit interior space.
– Does your grill have an access port for the power cord? If not, you’ll need an extension cord.
Power and performance
– Look for a rotisserie kit with enough torque to reliably turn heavy loads. Underpowered models struggle and stall.
– Make sure the motor is designed for outdoor use and weatherproof.
– Consider heavy-duty stainless steel hardware over plated steel that can rust over time.
– Pay attention to the duty cycle – how long the motor can operate continuously before needing a break to prevent overheating.
Ease of use
– Does the kit come fully assembled and ready to install out of the box?
– Are tools required to mount it on your grill? Ideally it will use thumbscrews.
– Does it have convenient features like a counterbalance and handles to make loading food easier?
– How easy is the motor to engage and control the rotation speed?
Versatility
– Can the forks be adjusted to accommodate foods of different sizes? More adjustable models offer greater versatility.
– Does it come with multiple prong options – forks, skewers, baskets – to handle diverse foods?
– Can the motor be used independently to power other accessories like a rotisserie basket or vertical roaster?
Brand reputation and warranty
– Stick with leading brands like Weber, Napoleon, Nexgrill, and Char-Broil that have positive reviews.
– Look for at least a 1 year warranty as assurance of quality.
Recommended rotisserie kits
Based on the above criteria, here are some top-rated rotisserie kits to consider:
| Brand | Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber | 7740 | $74.99 | Heavy duty motor, adjustable forks, fits Genesis 300 and II grills |
| Napoleon | BK500RDS | $129.99 | up to 7lb capacity, 110V motor with dry storage, 2-year warranty |
| Nexgrill | 720-0830 | $59.99 | Stainless steel construction, cool touch handles, fits most grills |
| Char-Broil | 1701586 | $49.99 | 35lb capacity, 120V motor, chrome-plated spit rod |
Weber 7740 Rotisserie
This heavy-duty stainless steel rotisserie kit from the industry leader Weber is specifically designed to fit their popular Genesis II and Genesis II LX grill models. With 15 watts of power, it provides smooth and reliable performance even when loaded to capacity with large cuts of meat up to 10kg. The 7740 features adjustable forks that slide along the rod to center any size food, as well as counterbalancing to prevent slipping and ensure even rotation. At just under $100, this is a great option to bring rotisserie cooking capabilities to your Weber grill. Owners give it high marks for quality construction and easy installation.
Napoleon BK500RDS Rotisserie Kit
The Napoleon BK500RDS provides a versatile rotisserie solution that can handle anything from full roasts to ribs and perfect poultry up to 7lbs. Everything needed is included in one kit – a 110V motor, spit rod, 2 prong meat forks, and counterbalance. With an adjustable bracket, it can be mounted on any Napoleon grill or used independently. This rotosserrie has a convenient cord storage compartment to keep things neat when not in use. Owners praise it for its power and value at a mid-range price point. Napoleon covers the BK500RDS with a 2-year warranty.
Nexgrill Rotisserie Kit
For budget-focused grillers, the Nexgrill rotisserie kit provides surprising quality and performance for its affordable price point. The kit comes with a sturdy motor, adjustable forks, and handles made of brushed stainless steel. Installation is tool-free with thumb screws and it fits most grill makes and models with 22.5” clearance between the main burners. With 120 watts of power, it can reliably handle roasts up to 35lbs. Owners are impressed with smooth rotation and even cooking results. For basic rotisserie abilities without breaking the bank, the Nexgrill is a great choice.
Using your new rotisserie
Once you have a rotisserie installed, here are some tips to get the most out of it:
Trussing and balancing
Properly truss poultry and roasts to hold shape and allow for even cooking. Use butcher’s twine to tie up any loose areas. Attach at the right points to evenly balance the load on the rotisserie rod for rotation without slipping.
Prepare with care
Generously coat food with olive oil, seasoning rubs and herbs to keep things flavorful as it rotates. Injecting poultry with broth or marinades is also an option. Be careful not to over-handle and compress meat when seasoning.
Cook low and slow
Rotisserie cooking relies on indirect heat and extended times, not direct high heat. Keep your grill’s burner on low or move coals to the sides for ambient heat around 250-300°F. Cook times will range from 1-4 hours depending on the size and type of food.
Use a drip pan
Put an aluminum pan under the rotisserie route to catch drippings for gravy. This will also minimize flare ups from fat drips. Line the pan with foil for quick clean up.
Watch the ends
Since the ends of rotisserie food cook slower, keep an eye on them and use foil to prevent overcooking if needed. Some rotation adjustment may be required.
Let it rest
As with all meat, let roasts and poultry rest 5-10 minutes after cooking for juices to redistribute before carving and serving.
Frequently asked questions
What are the different types of rotisseries?
There are two main types – electric and charcoal/gas. Electric rotisseries use heating elements surrounding the food, which limits their versatility. Most grilling enthusiasts prefer gas or charcoal rotisseries powered by an electric motor. They provide greater flavor from live fire cooking.
How much meat fits on a rotisserie?
Consumer rotisserie kits are designed for smaller foods up to 10 pounds, like whole chickens, rib roasts, and pork loins. Larger commercial rotisseries are available for bigger cuts.
Does it take longer to cook on a rotisserie?
Yes, rotisserie cooking generally takes 1-2 hours longer than direct grilling. The slower roasting process and self-basting yields very tender, juicy results.
Can you use wood chips or smoke on a rotisserie?
Absolutely – adding wood chips or chunks to gas or charcoal while rotisserie cooking provides delicious smoky flavor as the food slowly rotates.
What are the best meats for rotisserie cooking?
The constant rotation works great for chicken, beef roasts, lamb, whole fish, and pork. Fattier meats like duck, goose, and rib roasts excel in a rotisserie as the fat renders slowly and keeps things moist.
Conclusion
Adding a rotisserie attachment to your backyard grill opens up a whole new realm of slow roasting possibilities. While a quality rotisserie kit represents an investment, it also delivers exceptional capability for cooking foods -especially meat – to tender, juicy perfection. Models from leading brands like Weber, Napoleon, and Nexgrill provide excellent return for your dollar. Proper trussing, seasoning, temperature control and ample cooking time results in phenomenal flavor. If you love hosting and cooking for crowds, a rotisserie is a phenomenal addition. The deliciously golden chickens, herb-crusted roasts, and perfect pork you can churn out will make it an outdoor cooking essential.