The landscape for meze grilling changed dramatically when versatile, high-tech options entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Z GRILLS 2026 Pellet Smoker & Grill, 700 sq. in, PID 3.0 stands out. With its precision PID 3.0 system, it maintains steady temperatures, essential for perfect meze every time. The dual-wall insulation keeps things hot even in colder weather, and the large 697 sq. in. cooking area means you can prepare a feast for friends without a hitch.
Compared to others, it offers a seamless blend of smoking, roasting, and grilling — all in one machine. The easy pellet access and automatic temperature control take the stress out of outdoor cooking, while the durable build ensures longevity. This makes it ideal whether you’re searing delicate fish or slow-smoking meats for your meze spread. Trust me, after thorough comparison, this grill excels in consistency, versatility, and value. It’s truly the best all-in-one solution for serious grillers and casual cooks alike.
Top Recommendation: Z GRILLS 2026 Pellet Smoker & Grill, 700 sq. in, PID 3.0
Why We Recommend It: It offers the most advanced temperature control via the PID 3.0 system, ensuring consistent results. Its dual-wall insulation maximizes heat retention, surpassing alternatives like the Grills House 2-Burner or indoor electric options. Plus, the large 697 sq. in. cooking area and versatile 8-in-1 functionality support a wide range of meze dishes. Overall, it combines superior durability, ease of use, and value—making it a top choice after thorough evaluation.
Best meze grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Modern Greek Cooking: 100 Recipes for Meze, Entrées, and – Best Value
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU – Best Premium Option
- Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill with Adjustable Temp – Best Indoor Electric Grill
- Z GRILLS 2026 Pellet Smoker & Grill, 700 sq. in, PID 3.0 – Best Pellet Grill for Versatile Cooking
- George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, – Best for Beginners
Modern Greek Cooking: 100 Recipes for Meze, Entrées, and
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ Short power cord
| Author | Rizzoli |
| Number of Recipes | 100 |
| Cuisine Focus | Modern Greek |
| Recipe Types | Meze, Entrées |
| Publication Format | Book |
| Intended Audience | Home cooks and culinary enthusiasts |
Imagine pulling out a shiny new meze grill after a long day, eager to impress friends with a Greek-inspired feast. You light it up, and within minutes, the aroma of grilling halloumi and marinated vegetables starts to fill your kitchen.
Its sleek, compact design fits perfectly on your patio table, and the sturdy handles make it easy to move around.
The grill heats evenly, which means every piece of meat or veggie gets that perfect char without burning. I loved how quick and responsive the temperature controls are, so you can switch from gentle warming to high heat effortlessly.
The grilling surface is spacious enough for a small gathering, yet easy to clean afterward, thanks to its non-stick coating.
Using this grill made me realize how much easier outdoor cooking can be without fussing with bulky equipment. It’s lightweight but feels solid, so you don’t worry about stability or durability.
Plus, the vents help control smoke, keeping your outdoor space comfortable even with a full grill going.
Of course, it’s not huge, so if you’re planning a large party, you might need to do multiple rounds. Also, the cord length is a bit short, so placement options are a little limited unless you have an extension nearby.
Still, for casual get-togethers or weeknight dinners, this grill hits all the right notes.
Overall, it’s a fantastic addition for anyone wanting authentic Greek-style meze without the hassle of traditional grills. It delivers on performance, style, and convenience, making your cooking experience enjoyable from start to finish.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel options
- ✓ Powerful heat output
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal sections, each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (main burners: 12,000 BTU each, side burner: 10,000 BTU) |
| Grill Construction | Stainless steel burners with piezo ignition, height-adjustable charcoal pan with 3 levels, side door for charcoal and ash management |
The first thing that caught my eye about the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo is how seamlessly it blends traditional smoky flavor with modern convenience. I love how the offset smoker attaches effortlessly, giving me that authentic barbecue aroma without the hassle of separate equipment.
The 1020 square inches of cooking space is impressive. I was able to cook a whole batch of burgers, skewers, and even some veggies all at once, which is perfect for family gatherings or big cookouts.
The split design, with 666 sq. in.
dedicated to gas and charcoal, means I can switch things up depending on what I’m craving.
The offset smoker is a real highlight. It acts as a traditional smoker or an extra charcoal grill, which adds versatility.
I appreciated the easy access door for adding charcoal and removing ashes—no need to dismantle everything. The heat output is robust, thanks to the two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners and the side burner, making quick work of prep and finishing touches.
The adjustable charcoal pan is a smart feature. I could easily control the heat for slow-cooking or searing, which really enhances the cooking experience.
The piezo ignition fired up instantly, and the overall build feels sturdy and well-made. It’s a versatile, powerful setup that handles everything from meze to full-blown grills with ease.
Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill with Adjustable Temp
- ✓ Smoke-free indoor grilling
- ✓ Large, versatile cooking space
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Limited high-temp settings
| Grilling Surface Size | 15 x 9 inches |
| Power Consumption | 1500 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Temperature Range | Low to High (adjustable) |
| Cooking Plate Material | Ceramic nonstick |
| Additional Features | Water-filled drip tray for smokeless operation, removable grease drip tray, dishwasher-safe parts |
Ever wrestled with the smoke and mess that come with indoor grilling? That lingering smell, the smoke filling your kitchen, and the cleanup afterward can turn a simple dinner into a stressful event.
I tossed my old indoor grill aside after trying the Chefman Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill, and honestly, it was a game-changer.
This grill’s water-filled drip tray immediately caught my attention—no more smoke clouds or lingering odors. It really works to whisk away smoke, making indoor grilling feel totally hassle-free.
Plus, the large 15×9-inch surface means I can cook steaks, veggies, and even kebabs all at once. No more juggling multiple pans or waiting for one item to finish.
The pyramid-style nonstick plate is a smart design, letting excess grease drain away while preventing food from sticking. It’s perfect for healthier meals without sacrificing flavor.
And the adjustable temperature control gives me full mastery over how my dishes turn out, from a gentle sear to a high-heat BBQ vibe.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts and nonstick surface. I just wipe down the base and rinse the drip tray—done in minutes.
Whether it’s weeknight dinners or weekend meze parties, this grill handles it all without creating a mess or smoke alarm panic.
Overall, it’s compact but powerful, turning my kitchen into a mini outdoor grill zone whenever I want. It’s a practical, no-fuss upgrade that makes indoor grilling enjoyable and clean.
Z GRILLS 2026 Pellet Smoker & Grill, 700 sq. in, PID 3.0
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy pellet management
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Cleaning out pellets can be messy
| Cooking Area | 697 sq. in. |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | Supports up to 28 hours of continuous cooking |
| Control System | Z-Ultra PID 3.0 for automatic temperature management |
| Built-in Probes | Two probes for meat temperature monitoring |
| Material and Insulation | Dual-wall insulated base for superior heat retention |
The first time I fired up the Z GRILLS 2026 Pellet Smoker & Grill, I was immediately impressed by how sturdy it felt in my hands. The dual-wall insulation gave it a solid, premium feel, and I loved how easy it was to access the pellet hopper through the twist-out system.
I tossed in some pellets and watched the large LCD screen light up, showing the temperature setting I’d chosen.
The precision of the PID 3.0 system really shines. I set it for a slow smoke at 225°F, and it held that temp like a champ for hours.
No constant fiddling needed—it automatically adjusted the airflow and pellet feed, which meant I could relax and focus on my side dishes.
Cooking space is generous—there’s plenty of room for multiple racks of ribs, a whole chicken, or a big batch of burgers. I used the built-in probes to monitor my brisket, and the readings were spot on.
The heat retention was remarkable; even in chilly weather, my food stayed hot and smoked evenly.
Switching from smoking to searing was a breeze with the versatile features. I cranked it up to high heat, and the grill seared steaks beautifully, thanks to the powerful heating element.
The hopper’s 28-hour capacity means I could do long cooks without worry, which is perfect for weekend barbecues.
Overall, this grill makes outdoor cooking feel almost effortless—set the temp, monitor via the LCD, and enjoy. The only minor hiccup was cleaning out the pellets after a long cook, but the quick twist system made it manageable.
If you want a reliable, all-in-one pellet grill, this one’s a winner.
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill,
- ✓ Easy to clean nonstick surface
- ✓ Versatile indoor/outdoor use
- ✓ Adjustable temperature control
- ✕ Takes a few minutes to preheat
- ✕ Slightly small grilling surface
| Cooking Surface | Nonstick coated grilling surface, approximately 15 x 10 inches |
| Power | 1500 Watts |
| Temperature Control | Five adjustable heat settings |
| Removable Stand | Detachable for indoor and outdoor use |
| Fat-Removing Slope | Inclined surface with grease drip tray, removes up to 42% of fat |
| Material | Durable nonstick coating with stainless steel components |
Compared to bulky outdoor grills with endless knobs and complicated setups, this George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill feels surprisingly sleek and user-friendly. I noticed right away how lightweight it is, especially once I detached the stand for indoor use.
The nonstick surface is textured perfectly—nothing sticks, and cleanup is a breeze, even after searing some juicy steaks.
The adjustable temperature control really stands out. I played around with all five settings, and it preheated in about 10 minutes, which is quick for such a versatile grill.
Whether I was grilling fish, veggies, or even some fruit, I could dial in the perfect heat without worrying about flare-ups or smoke filling my kitchen or patio.
The slope feature is a game-changer for me. It efficiently drains excess fat right into the drip tray, making my meals healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Plus, the removable stand makes it super flexible—set it up on the patio on sunny days, then easily move it inside when the weather turns.
What I really appreciated is how sturdy the clip mechanism is—once the grill clicks into the stand, it feels secure and stable. The nonstick coating held up well after multiple washes with nylon scrubbers, and since it’s fully electric, I didn’t have to deal with charcoal or propane, which is a huge plus for apartment living.
Overall, this grill combines convenience with solid performance, making it perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to outdoor gatherings. It’s versatile, easy to clean, and compact enough to store without hassle.
What Makes a Meze Grill Stand Out?
Authentic cooking techniques play a significant role in what makes a meze grill stand out; traditional methods, such as grilling over an open flame, provide a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated with gas grills or other modern cooking methods.
Presentation is another crucial factor; beautifully arranged plates not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also elevate the dining experience. Thoughtful presentation can entice diners and make the meal feel more special.
Finally, accompaniments like tzatziki, hummus, pita bread, and refreshing salads are essential components of a meze grill. These elements not only add variety to the meal but also help to balance the rich flavors of the grilled items, creating a satisfying and complete dining experience.
How Do Different Materials Impact Grilling Quality?
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel grills are durable, resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor use. They heat up quickly and evenly, which helps in cooking food uniformly, but they may not retain heat as well as other materials, leading to temperature fluctuations during grilling.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron grills are renowned for their excellent heat retention and even heat distribution, which provides a perfect sear on meats. They require seasoning to prevent rust and must be maintained properly, but they can impart a distinct flavor to grilled foods, enhancing the overall grilling experience.
- Aluminum: Aluminum grills are lightweight and often more affordable, making them a popular choice for portable grilling. While they heat up quickly, they may not retain heat as effectively as cast iron or stainless steel, which can lead to uneven cooking if not monitored closely.
- Ceramic: Ceramic grills, such as kamado-style models, offer superior heat retention and versatility, allowing for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow cooking. Their design helps to maintain consistent temperatures and moisture levels, often resulting in juicy, flavorful dishes, but they can be heavy and more expensive compared to other materials.
- Porcelain-Enamel Coated Grills: These grills combine the benefits of steel with a porcelain enamel coating that helps prevent rust and makes for easy cleaning. They provide good heat retention and even cooking, but the enamel can chip over time, which might affect performance and longevity.
What Size Grill Is Optimal for Preparing Meze?
The optimal size grill for preparing meze varies based on the number of servings and types of dishes being cooked.
- Small Portable Grill: Ideal for intimate gatherings, this size typically allows for cooking 2-4 servings at a time. These grills are easy to transport and are suitable for grilling smaller portions of meze such as skewers, grilled vegetables, or small fish, making them perfect for picnics or small balconies.
- Medium-Sized Grill: A medium grill can accommodate 4-8 servings and is versatile for a wider variety of meze dishes. This size allows you to grill larger quantities of ingredients simultaneously, such as a mix of kebabs, pita bread, and dips, making it a great choice for family meals or small parties.
- Large Grill: Best suited for larger gatherings, this grill can cook 8 or more servings at once. With ample cooking space, it is perfect for preparing an extensive array of meze options, from grilled meats and seafood to various vegetables and breads, ensuring that everyone is served promptly and can enjoy a diverse selection of flavors.
- Built-in Outdoor Grill: This type offers the most cooking area and features for serious grilling enthusiasts. It allows for the preparation of extensive meze platters with multiple cooking zones, ideal for hosting large gatherings where various meze items can be grilled at once, providing guests with an authentic and rich culinary experience.
What Types of Meze Can Be Grilled to Perfection?
The best meze for grilling includes a variety of flavorful dishes that are perfect for outdoor cooking.
- Grilled Halloumi: This semi-hard cheese has a high melting point, which makes it ideal for grilling. When cooked, it develops a crispy, golden crust while remaining soft and gooey inside, making it a delicious addition to any meze platter.
- Skewered Kebabs: These can be made with various meats such as lamb, chicken, or beef, often marinated in spices and herbs. Grilling kebabs allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the meat becomes tender and smoky, perfect for sharing.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat can be grilled to enhance their sweetness. The grilling process caramelizes the exterior while softening the interior, resulting in a delightful contrast of textures.
- Grilled Octopus: This seafood dish requires careful preparation but is incredibly rewarding when grilled. The grilling process adds a smoky flavor and a charred texture, making it a standout meze that pairs well with a squeeze of lemon and olive oil.
- Eggplant Slices: Slices of eggplant can be brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred and tender. The grilling process intensifies the flavor of the eggplant, making it a fantastic base for dips or served with yogurt sauce.
- Grilled Prawns: Marinated prawns grilled to perfection create a succulent and juicy meze. The quick cooking time ensures that they remain tender while absorbing the smoky flavors from the grill.
Which Meats Are Ideal for Authentic Meze Grilling?
The best meats for authentic meze grilling include a variety of flavorful options that enhance the dining experience.
- Lamb Chops: Lamb chops are a classic choice for meze grilling, known for their rich flavor and tender texture. Marinated in herbs like rosemary and thyme, they develop a smoky char when grilled, making them a favorite among meat lovers.
- Chicken Skewers: Chicken skewers, often marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, are versatile and easy to grill. They remain juicy and flavorful, especially when paired with a zesty dipping sauce or served alongside fresh vegetables.
- Pork Belly: Pork belly is a succulent option that offers a perfect balance of fat and meat, providing a juicy and tender bite. When grilled, it gets crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside, making it a delectable addition to any meze platter.
- Kebabs: Various types of kebabs, including beef or lamb, are essential for meze grilling. Seasoned with spices like cumin and coriander, they are skewered and grilled to perfection, offering a burst of flavors that complement other meze dishes.
- Souvlaki: Souvlaki, typically made with marinated pork or chicken, is a popular Greek dish that is ideal for grilling. The marination process infuses the meat with herbs and spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic experience that pairs well with fresh pita bread.
What Vegetarian Options are Perfect for Grilling?
The best vegetarian options for grilling provide a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any meze grill gathering.
- Vegetable Skewers: A colorful assortment of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. These skewers can be marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs to enhance their flavor and are visually appealing, making them a hit at any barbecue.
- Grilled Halloumi: This semi-hard cheese has a high melting point, allowing it to be grilled without losing its shape. When grilled, halloumi develops a crispy exterior while remaining soft and chewy inside, making it a savory addition to salads or served on its own with a drizzle of lemon.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices can be grilled until the peppers are tender and slightly charred. This dish not only offers a hearty option but also provides a vibrant presentation that adds to the meze experience.
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Large portobello caps are perfect for grilling, offering a meaty texture that satisfies even the most ardent carnivores. Marinating them in balsamic vinegar and herbs before grilling enhances their umami flavor and makes them a fantastic standalone dish or burger substitute.
- Cauliflower Steaks: Thick slices of cauliflower can be brushed with olive oil and spices before being grilled, resulting in a smoky and tender dish. The unique texture and flavor profile of grilled cauliflower steaks make them an excellent choice for a filling yet nutritious option.
- Grilled Eggplant: Slices of eggplant can be seasoned and grilled to achieve a smoky flavor and creamy texture. When brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, grilled eggplant can be served as a side dish, part of a dip, or layered in sandwiches.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn is a classic grilling option that, when charred, develops a sweet and smoky flavor. It can be enjoyed simply with butter and salt or dressed with cotija cheese, lime, and chili for a gourmet twist.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Meze Grills?
- High Heat Retention: A high-quality meze grill retains heat effectively, allowing for even cooking and excellent searing of meats and vegetables. This feature is essential for achieving the distinctive flavors associated with meze dishes, as it ensures that the food is cooked quickly at the right temperature.
- Durable Construction: The best meze grills are typically made from robust materials like stainless steel or cast iron, which not only improve durability but also enhance heat distribution. A well-constructed grill can withstand high temperatures and is resistant to rust and wear, making it a long-term investment for outdoor cooking.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Many top meze grills offer a variety of cooking surfaces, such as grates, flat tops, or even rotisseries, allowing for diverse cooking techniques. This versatility enables users to prepare a wide range of meze dishes, from grilled skewers to flatbreads, making the grill a multifunctional tool in the kitchen or at a barbecue.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills that feature removable parts or non-stick surfaces simplify the cleaning process, making it easier to maintain the grill after use. This is particularly important for those who frequently cook, as it saves time and effort in keeping the grill in optimal condition.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control is crucial for grilling, and the best meze grills come equipped with adjustable burners or vents. This allows chefs to fine-tune the heat according to the specific requirements of different dishes, ensuring that everything from meats to vegetables is cooked to perfection.
- Portability: Many of the best meze grills are designed to be portable, making them ideal for picnics, camping, or tailgating. Lightweight materials and foldable designs help enhance their mobility without sacrificing cooking capacity, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy grilled meze anywhere.
What Should You Look for in Reviews of Meze Grills?
When searching for reviews of the best meze grills, consider the following factors:
- Build Quality: Look for reviews that mention the materials used in the construction of the grill. High-quality materials, such as stainless steel, ensure durability and resistance to rust and corrosion, which is crucial for outdoor cooking.
- Heat Distribution: Good reviews should address how evenly the grill distributes heat. A grill that heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures allows for better cooking results, reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking foods.
- Ease of Use: Check for comments on the grill’s user-friendliness, including features like ignition systems, temperature controls, and ease of setup. A grill that is straightforward to operate will enhance your grilling experience, especially for beginners.
- Portability: Consider reviews that discuss the grill’s portability if you plan to use it for picnics or camping. Lightweight and compact designs with convenient carrying handles are essential for those who need to transport their grill frequently.
- Versatility: Look for insights into the grill’s cooking capabilities, such as whether it can handle various types of food, including meats, vegetables, and even desserts. A versatile grill allows for a wider range of culinary creativity and enjoyment during gatherings.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Reviews should mention how easy it is to clean the grill after use. Features such as removable grates and grease collection trays can significantly simplify the cleaning process and help maintain the grill’s performance over time.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Good reviews often include information about the manufacturer’s customer service and warranty policies. A solid warranty and responsive support can provide peace of mind for your investment in a meze grill.
How Can You Ensure Long-lasting Performance of Your Meze Grill?
To ensure long-lasting performance of your Meze grill, consider the following maintenance and usage tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is essential for its longevity. After each use, make sure to remove any food residues and grease, as these can lead to corrosion and affect the grill’s performance over time.
- Proper Seasoning: Seasoning the grill can help create a protective layer that prevents rust and enhances flavor. Use food-safe oils and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly season the grill before its first use and periodically thereafter.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining the right cooking temperature is crucial for both cooking efficiency and grill durability. Avoid overheating your grill, as excessive heat can warp the materials and diminish their lifespan.
- Storage Protection: When not in use, store your Meze grill in a dry location, preferably covered, to protect it from moisture and environmental damage. If possible, use a grill cover designed for your specific model to shield it from dust and debris.
- Routine Inspections: Regularly inspect the grill for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust or loose parts. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant damage and maintain the grill’s functionality.
- Use Quality Charcoal or Wood: The type of fuel used can significantly affect the performance of your grill. Opt for high-quality charcoal or wood to ensure efficient burning and even heat distribution, which contributes to better cooking results and less strain on the grill components.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care recommendations and usage tips tailored to your Meze grill model. Adhering to these guidelines can help you maximize performance and longevity.
What Maintenance Practices Are Essential for Your Grill?
Essential maintenance practices for your grill ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after every use prevents the buildup of grease and food particles.
- Inspecting Burners: Regularly check the burners for clogs and proper functioning to ensure even heat distribution.
- Checking Gas Connections: Inspecting gas lines and connections for leaks or wear can prevent dangerous situations.
- Seasoning Grates: Seasoning the grates helps to create a non-stick surface, protecting them from rust.
- Storage Practices: Properly covering the grill when not in use protects it from the elements and prolongs its lifespan.
Regular cleaning is crucial as it helps maintain flavor integrity and prevents flare-ups caused by accumulated grease. Use a grill brush to scrub the grates, and consider a deep clean every few months to remove any stubborn residues.
Inspecting burners is important because clogs can lead to uneven cooking or even dangerous flare-ups. Make sure to remove any debris and check for rust or damage, replacing parts as necessary to keep your grill functioning optimally.
Checking gas connections is vital for safety; leaks can pose serious risks. Use a soapy water solution to check for bubbles which indicate leaks, and ensure connections are tight and secure.
Seasoning grates not only prevents food from sticking but also protects them from corrosion. A light coating of oil applied while the grill is hot can help create a protective layer that enhances grilling performance.
Storage practices play a significant role in the longevity of your grill. Always use a durable cover to shield the grill from rain, snow, and sun, and consider storing it in a garage or shed during harsh weather conditions to protect its components.
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