How to Start a Charcoal Grill
How to start a charcoal grill can be a bit intimidating for those who are new to it. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, charcoal grilling can be a fun and delicious way to cook up your favorite meats and vegetables. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you get started and grill like a pro.
In this blog, we’ll go through the different methods for starting a charcoal grill, the tools you’ll need, and some tips for maintaining the fire and getting the perfect cook. So, let’s fire up the grill and get started!
What is the best way to start a charcoal grill?
Many people avoid using charcoal because they don’t know how to start a charcoal grill without lighter fluid. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry! There are some easy ways to start a charcoal grill without lighter fluid or briquettes.
Method 1: Natural Fire Starters
You can use natural fire starters like dry twigs, pine cones, or a product such as Kingsford Wooden Fire Starter Rolls which are simply hardwood shavings coated in paraffin wax. Here’s how to do it:
- Place a small pile of natural fire starters in the center of the grill, and then pile the charcoal, lump charcoal, or wood around them.
- Light the natural fire starters using a long-handled lighter, electric Looft lighter, or matches.
- Wait for the charcoal or wood to ash over before placing food on the grill. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes.
- Once the hot coal forms and the grill is at the desired temperature, place your food on the cooking grate and start charcoal grilling.
Method 2: Chimney Starter
One of the easiest and most effective ways to start a charcoal grill without lighter fluid is to use a charcoal chimney. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill the charcoal chimney starter, making sure to leave a small space at the top.
- Place crumpled newspaper or fire starters at the bottom of the chimney starter.
- Light the newspaper or fire starters at the bottom of the chimney starter. The flames will ignite the charcoal.
- Wait for the charcoal to ash over before pouring it into the grill. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes.
- Using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves, carefully pour the charcoal into the grill.
- Once the charcoal is hot and the grill is at the desired temperature, place your food on the cooking grate and start grilling.
Learn how to find the best charcoal for your grill and how much to use.
How to start a charcoal grill without lighter fluid?
If you grill a lot and want the fastest and easiest way to get cooking without lighter fluid, consider adding a built-in gas log lighter to your grill. A log lighter is a burner tube like in a wood fireplace, but in this case, it is installed in the grill side wall by drilling a small hole. The log lighter is secured by brass fittings and can be used with a propane tank or plumbed directly into your natural gas line. It’s available in steel and stainless. Here’s how it works:
- Arrange charcoal or wood in the center of the grill, either directly on the bottom of the firebox or on top of a charcoal grate.
- Turn on the gas.
- Light the gas using a long-handled lighter or matches.
- Adjust the amount of gas with the attached air mixing chamber.
- Wait for the fire to engulf the stack of charcoal or logs. This usually takes around 20 minutes.
- Once embers start to form break them up with a fire poker to spread out the stack. Then start cooking with direct heat, right over the fire.
Tip: It’s fine to leave the gas valve open for the duration of the cook or turn it off once your fire is established. If you need more heat towards the end, you can always kick the lighter back on to finish.
In conclusion, lighting charcoal or wood without lighter fluid or charcoal briquettes is easy and safe. By using a natural fire starter or built in log lighter, you can enjoy the delicious taste of food cooked on a charcoal grill without harmful chemicals or undesirable flavors. We like to take away the guesswork. Check out JD Fabrications for your other grilling questions and while you’re there walk through our line of Height Adjustable Charcoal Grills. We ship anywhere in the US!
