'Q'(TM) THE NEW VERTICAL BARBEQUE 

Back yard chefs have been doing it for years. Before that the technique was used by early cavemen. Now the first real improvement in a zillion years -- "Q", the vertical barbeque.

Yes, VERTICAL. Just like a toaster. And, the improvements are many. Charcoal briquettes are stacked vertically inside a heavily-chromed, double-sided "chimney" that allows faster starting and "glowing" (in 8 minutes), hence less waiting. The vertical feature also provides two grills for the price of one batch of charcoal.

Steaks, fish, sausages, etc. are locked into place in portable, flat squeeze-locked baskets that are held vertically and can be reversed or even inverted. Seasoning and removal of food contents is quick and easy. This is where the real health feature of the "Q" shows up: it allows the grease from the cooking food to drop harmlessly into the drip pan (filled with water) below without falling on the coals and forming cancer-causing carcinogens! The "Q" also eliminates "flare-ups" common on other types of barbeques, that burn or sear the meat -- another unhealthy process. The "Q" also diminishes that burning grease odor.

Because of the water in the drip pan, the lower surface is always relatively cool and can be used on tables. Furthermore the entire set-up cools quickly, is easy to clean (because radiant heat does not burn or bake food onto the grill) with just a rinse. The "Q" food "cages" even fit into a dishwasher. "Q" requires no foil (although putting foil in the water-filled drip-pan does make it a bit easier to clean), folds into a briefcase-sized portable case with handle for travelling. A motorized spit is available for US$14.95. Because it is smoke-free, it can be used on a covered (but not enclosed) patio or balcony.

The unit is Swedish-designed, well made, easy to assemble, and the side racks (that hold the "cages") can support even heavy steaks in a manner that allows for easy flipping.

I tested my new unit four times "researching this column" and it performed marvelously. The food seemed especially delicious, juicier and more tender because it was cooked only by radiant heat and therefore not charred, allowing moisture and natural flavors to be sealed in. Radiant heating is definitely the healthier and superior method for outdoor cooking.

More information: Available for C$89 from American Express Canada Inc., Merchandising Division, 101 McNabb St., Markham, Ont. L3R 4H8. Phone: (24 hours) 800/668-9666. Fax: 800/465-1684. North American Distributor: Hermelin Inc., 130 McCormick Ave., Ste. 109, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Carl Gunell, President. Phone: 714/545-3500. Fax: 714/545-8739 or US 800 No. Via Camnet: 800/545-4808.

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