Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler Review

First Thoughts on the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is a seemingly simple piece of cooking equipment that promises to bring the joy of open-flame cooking to the campsite. Coghlan’s is a brand synonymous with affordable and practical outdoor gear, so I was eager to see if this broiler lived up to their reputation. I was curious to see if its low price point of $13.99 belied a hidden gem or a frustrating experience waiting to happen.

My need for the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler stemmed from a desire to elevate my backcountry cooking beyond simple dehydrated meals. I wanted the ability to cook fresh meat and vegetables over an open fire, without relying on heavy and cumbersome grills. The promise of authentic cast iron cooking in a lightweight and portable package was incredibly appealing.

Upon unboxing, my first impression was that of rugged simplicity. The cast iron felt solid and well-seasoned, suggesting durability. However, its small size also gave me pause; I wondered if it would be practical for anything beyond cooking single servings. Compared to full-sized cast iron skillets or portable propane grills, the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is noticeably smaller and more basic. I picked this one, ultimately, for its simplicity, portability, and the raw, primal cooking experience it promised. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the design seemed functional, but the true test would be in its performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler to the Test

First Use Experience

My first foray with the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler took place during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I set up a small fire pit and placed the broiler directly over the hot coals. I started with a simple test: grilling a couple of sausages.

The initial use was a learning experience. The cast iron heated up quickly, but I needed to be mindful of hot spots and adjust the broiler’s position frequently to ensure even cooking. The sausages cooked through nicely, acquiring a desirable char, but the small cooking surface limited me to only grilling a few pieces at a time. One notable issue was the lack of a handle; using tongs to maneuver the hot broiler was necessary and a bit precarious.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler has proven to be surprisingly resilient. The cast iron has held up well, with no signs of cracking or warping, despite exposure to high heat and occasional rain. Routine cleaning is simple: scraping off any residue and re-seasoning it with cooking oil after each use.

Compared to previous attempts at open-fire cooking (using makeshift grills or foil packets), the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler offers a significantly improved experience. The direct heat transfer from the cast iron sears food beautifully, imparting a smoky flavor that’s impossible to replicate with other methods. However, the small size and lack of temperature control remain limitations. It’s best suited for cooking smaller portions of food that don’t require precise cooking times.

Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler

Specifications

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is a compact and straightforward cooking tool designed for open-flame grilling. Its primary feature is its durable cast iron construction.

• The broiler’s dimensions are approximately 9 inches in diameter, offering a relatively small cooking surface.
• The weight is around 2 pounds, making it reasonably portable for backpacking or camping.
• The construction consists of a single piece of cast iron, pre-seasoned for immediate use.
• It lacks a handle, requiring the use of tongs or heat-resistant gloves for handling.

These specifications are significant because they directly impact the broiler’s usability and versatility. The small size limits the amount of food that can be cooked at once. The absence of a handle complicates handling when hot. The cast iron material ensures excellent heat retention and even cooking.

Performance & Functionality

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler performs its core function adequately: grilling food over an open flame. Its strength lies in its ability to sear food quickly, creating a desirable crust and smoky flavor.

• The cast iron distributes heat evenly, preventing excessive hot spots.
• It’s best used for cooking smaller items like sausages, burgers, vegetables, or fish fillets.
• Its weakness is the lack of temperature control; mastering the art of regulating heat through fire management is crucial for optimal results.
• For its intended purpose—simple, open-flame cooking—it meets expectations, but don’t expect the precision of a gas grill.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is simple and utilitarian. The single-piece cast iron construction ensures durability.

• Its weight is manageable for backpacking, though not the lightest option available.
• The absence of a handle is a notable drawback, requiring extra caution and the use of tools.
• The design is undeniably user-friendly, with no complicated parts or assembly required.
• However, the lack of any ergonomic features, such as a handle or adjustable legs, limits its overall comfort and convenience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is built to last. The cast iron material is incredibly durable and can withstand high temperatures without warping or cracking.

• With proper care, it should last for many years of use.
• Maintenance is straightforward: cleaning off any residue after each use, and occasionally re-seasoning with cooking oil to prevent rust.
• There are no moving parts to repair or replace, further enhancing its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is a standalone product with limited accessory options. It does not come with any additional accessories.

• There are no specific customization options available for this model.
• However, users can experiment with different types of cooking oils for seasoning to enhance its non-stick properties.
• Generic grilling accessories, such as tongs, spatulas, and heat-resistant gloves, are essential for safe and effective use. It’s not designed to be compatible with specific accessories.

Pros and Cons of Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler?

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is perfect for casual campers, backpackers on a budget, and anyone who enjoys the simplicity of open-fire cooking. It’s an excellent choice for cooking single servings of meat, vegetables, or fish.

Who should skip this product? Those who need to cook for large groups or require precise temperature control will likely find this broiler too limiting. Someone looking for a quick, easy, and safe way to cook, should also skip this product.

Must-have accessories: Heat-resistant gloves or tongs are essential for safely handling the hot broiler.

Conclusion on Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler

The Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler is a basic, no-frills cooking tool that delivers on its promise of providing a simple and affordable way to grill food over an open flame. Its durability and portability make it a worthwhile addition to any camper’s gear.

The $13.99 price is certainly justified by its solid construction and performance. While the lack of a handle and small cooking surface are drawbacks, they are easily overlooked considering the price and portability.

I would personally recommend the Coghlans Cast Iron Broiler to anyone looking for an inexpensive and durable way to enjoy the flavors of open-fire cooking. Embrace the simplicity and prepare for the primal satisfaction of grilling over the coals!

Check Best Price HERE