The Best Charcoal BBQ - 2023

The barbecue grill market is alive and well and expected to continue to grow through the year 2026. While gas grills tend to be the most popular, charcoal BBQs aren’t that far behind. This may be because gas grills are quicker to get going, but charcoal grills produce a more authentic flavor.

When shopping for a charcoal barbecue, you first need to decide how portable you need the model to be. There are grills that have a set of wheels that allow you to easily move them from one area of the yard to another. Others fold flat for transport to a new location. These grills make excellent options for a family picnic at the park. Small and more compact grills that are lightweight and easy to carry are a better choice for camping or tailgating.

Check to see what the charcoal BBQ you’re looking at is constructed from. Stainless steel is always a great option, as it resists rust and is easy to clean. When it comes to the cooking grates, look for nonstick, cast-iron grates, as they are designed to keep food from getting fused to the surface of the grates.

Review the grilling area to ensure there’s enough room to cook for everyone in your party. A charcoal grilling area of 150 square inches will fit just six hamburgers, while using a 250-square inch grate will allow for adding corn on the cob and a few hot dogs. Of course, you’ll also find extra-large models if you regularly cook for a massive group.

Take a look at the charcoal BBQ’s vents. You may find one large adjustable vent or two smaller vents. It’s important that the vents are able to provide enough air flow to cook your foods evenly and prevent your fire from suffocating.

Consider any extras that the grill may have to offer. For example, there are charcoal grills that feature an additional fire box for smoking meats. Others offer locking lids, which add an element of safety during transport. Insulated handles are always an excellent choice, as they won’t get hot to the touch. You’ll even come across grills with anti-slip rubber feet to keep them firmly planted on your concrete patio.

• There are several different types of charcoal to choose from. You may opt for lump charcoal, which is made from pure wood. It doesn’t contain any binders or petroleum-based accelerants. Charcoal briquettes don’t have to be replenished as quickly as lump coal. They are created using wood, sawdust, Borax and binders, among other ingredients. Coconut shell charcoal is constructed from coconut husks. It’s best for use in smaller grills, as it is less readily available and more expensive to purchase.
• Looking to add a smoky flavor to your meats? Consider adding some hardwood chips to your lump charcoal.
• Always store your charcoal in a cool, dry location, as it has a habit of absorbing moisture.
• If you wish, you can use a chimney starter to encourage the charcoal to heat up faster. It’s often a better choice than lighter fluid.
• Always preheat your grilling grate before placing your chicken, beef or vegetables on the grate. Otherwise, they will stick to the grate. It’s also a good idea to oil the grate to further prevent foods from sticking.
• Consider picking up a grill basket, as they allow you to grill sliced vegetables, like zucchini, peppers and onions without losing any between the grates.
• Keeping your charcoal BBQ clean is the best way to prolong its life. Begin by removing the ash catcher, dumping out the ashes and wiping the catcher clean using a mild detergent and some warm water. Move on to the cooking grates next. You’ll want to use a stainless steel brush to remove any stuck-on foods. Wipe down the grates afterward with a wet cloth. Finish cleaning the grill by wiping down the bowl and lid with a mild dish soap and water.
• Never clean the grill while it’s still hot. Wait for it to completely cool or you may suffer an accidental burn.
• If you can’t move your charcoal BBQ into a garage or outdoor shed, it’s a good idea to pick up a grill cover to keep your BBQ protected from weather, debris and animals.
• It’s important to properly make use of your grill’s vents, otherwise, you’ll have trouble controlling the temperature. Closing the vents will suffocate your fire, so you only want to do this after you’ve finished grilling. Opening the vents fully will significantly increase the temperature within the grill, while closing the vents partially works to cool the temperature down.
• Since you can’t control the temperature of a charcoal grill like you can a gas grill, you’ll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure your beef and poultry has been cooked to the recommended internal temperature.
• Determine how much assembly is required. You may want to recruit a friend to help you get the grill set up the first time.
• After your fire has gone out and your grill has cooled, you can save and reuse any charcoal pieces that have not been burned.