Blackstone Bronco Brings Santa Maria Style to Backyards

The Blackstone Bronco open-flame grill offers a unique approach to backyard cooking, bringing the traditional style of Santa Maria-style grilling to a residential setting. This design takes inspiration from mid-19th-century California, where vaqueros used open-flame grills to cook massive cuts of beef during cattle roundups. The grill stands 56.4 inches long and 46 inches deep, featuring an adjustable grate that hangs over a large cookbox. This system allows users to raise and lower the cooking surface to manage heat levels, a feature that sets it apart from standard charcoal options.

Setting up the Bronco requires more effort than typical charcoal grills. The manufacturer designed the cookbox for full-size split logs rather than briquettes, though charcoal is an option. Users must burn the wood down to embers, a process that can take over an hour. The front panel folds down to allow easy loading of large logs into the brasero, a metal basket on the side. As the wood burns, embers fall through the basket into the main cookbox, where they are scraped under the cooking grate using a coal rake.

Slow Burn, Fast Results

After the two-hour assembly process, the cooking performance proves the effort is worthwhile. The adjustable grate system relies on a shaft and crank wheel to move the surface inches away from the coals. Users can reach temperatures over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, a level usually reserved for high-end steakhouses. This intense heat creates a hard crust on meat while keeping the interior juicy. The user placed a 2-inch-thick ribeye near the coals to sear it, then raised the grate to finish cooking to a medium-rare internal temperature.

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From Steaks to Smoky Chicken

The grill proves effective for foods requiring lower temperatures as well. Cooking chicken thighs benefits from the adjustable grate by keeping the meat high over the fire. This position allows the fat to render slowly while the meat absorbs the smoky flavor from the smoldering hardwood. The user then lowered the grate in the final minutes to crisp the skin. This versatility allows for a range of cooking styles once the initial setup is complete.

Despite the lengthy setup time and the need for patience, the Blackstone Bronco delivers a distinct advantage in temperature control. The ability to transition from high-heat searing to slow cooking within the same unit offers a flexibility not commonly found in standard backyard grills. While the device does not prioritize speed or convenience, it provides a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time to build the fire. Proper preparation is essential to prevent weather-related issues during outdoor cooking sessions. To avoid unexpected damage, owners should consult a checklist to ensure safety before starting the grill.

Owners can prepare their setup for the season by reviewing safety guidelines and ensuring the equipment is in good condition. Checking the grill’s stability and ensuring proper ventilation are key steps in maintaining a safe environment. This preparation helps in avoiding potential hazards and ensures that the cooking experience remains enjoyable. The grill’s design and functionality make it a valuable addition to any backyard setup.