Grilling samgyeopsal at home was the dream.
A serving at a restaurant costs 15,000 won. Pork belly from the supermarket is under 2,000 won per 100g. Over 4x cheaper. So I started grilling at home, but...
The smoke was the problem.
Frying pan + pork belly = oil splatters, smoke fills the room, fire alarm nearly goes off, clothes and curtains stink for days. Range hood on full blast barely helps.
Searched for "less smoke grilling" and found electric grills.
Why less smoke
The key is grease separation. The grill plate is sloped or grooved so fat drains into a tray below. Grease doesn't sit on the heat source, so less smoke.
A frying pan pools grease on the hot surface → grease burns → smoke. Electric grill separates grease from heat → 70-80% less smoke. Not zero, but massive improvement.
Why Zojirushi
Japanese brand, solid build quality. Ceramic-coated plate — food doesn't stick, easy to clean. Temperature dial from 80°C (keep warm) to 250°C. Samgyeopsal at 230°C: crispy outside, juicy inside.
Beyond pork belly
Beef: Chadolbaegi (thin brisket) on this — fat drains away, cleaner taste Vegetables: Mushrooms, onions, peppers alongside the meat Sausages & bacon: Hotel breakfast vibes Seafood: Shrimp, shellfish — no oil splatter
Home grilling tips
- Still use the range hood. Electric ≠ zero smoke.
- Put water in the drip tray. Grease floats on water, less smell.
- Don't max the temperature. 250°C = burning grease = smoke. 220-230°C is the sweet spot.
- Open a window. Obviously.
Downsides
Big on the table. Two-person dining table? The grill takes up everything. No room for side dishes.
Short power cord. May need an extension depending on table location.
Three things to wash. Plate, drip tray, base. Plate is removable which helps, but still more cleanup than a frying pan.
Pan vs electric grill vs gas burner
Pan: Cheap, simple. Smoke nightmare. Electric grill: Less smoke, easy temp control. Lacks char flavor. Gas burner: Best flavor. Needs gas canister, riskier.
For regular home grilling in a Korean apartment, electric grill has the best balance.
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