It’s quite a pleasure to cook outdoors and over a fire, and the results are crispy, juicy, smoky, and just plain tasty. Not to mention, many people really enjoy the way grilling can put us back in touch with our more primal roots without having to leave the comforts of home. A lot of backyard grillers start with a gas grill, get bit by the grilling bug, and then transition to a charcoal grill. Here’s what you need to know about getting started with a charcoal grill.
Getting Started
Just like a gas grill, a charcoal grill needs to preheat before you do anything else. Charcoal grills can take a little bit of time and patience to get going, but the benefits include a hotter fire and more control over your heat zones. Plus, it’s fun!
While it’s an option, we really don’t recommend lighter fluid. It can add a chemical taste to your food. Instead, try a chimney starter, which involves stacking newspaper and charcoal in a chimney. When the charcoal at the top begins to turn grey, it’s time to dump the coals into the grill.
Heat Distribution
With a charcoal grill, it’s important to distribute the coals to create a hot zone and a “not” zone, which will allow you to cook over both direct and indirect heat. Some foods need more time to cook without burning on the outside, and indirect heat makes that possible.
Safety
Fire, by nature, is slightly unpredictable, so it’s best to follow some basic safety guidelines.
- Don’t leave the grill unattended.
- Avoid grilling during droughts.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
When you’re ready to talk to a grill sales specialist, contact Hi-Tech Appliance. We serve the area surrounding Louisville, Colorado and can help you get the perfect grill for your needs.
