Charcoal BBQs

Frequently asked questions about charcoal grill BBQs

• Are charcoal BBQs worth it?

  Charcoal BBQs burn hotter than gas BBQs and require a little more user input, but seasoned BBQers swear by the smoky flavours imparted by flare-ups on a charcoal grill. A charcoal grill is perfect for low-and-slow, smoked foods such as briskets or shoulders. With a charcoal grill, you’ll adjust your coals, shelves and vents to control the temperature, rather than adjust a gas dial. For quickly grilled and seared foods such as steaks and burgers – you’ll be happy whether you choose gas or charcoal.

• What is the best charcoal BBQ?

  For style and flexibility you can't go wrong with a charcoal grill from the Boss Grill 'The Egg' Range. These smoker charcoal BBQs are perfect for low-and-slow smoking, grilling, and cooking pizzas. They're self cleaning, super durable, and cost less than big-brand egg BBQs. If you prefer an american style charcoal BBQ - Check out our ranges from Char-Broil and Landmann. We offer next day delivery on our whole charcoal range.

• How long do you let charcoal burn before cooking?

  Give your charcoal a good 15-20 minutes to get going - waiting until your coals are grey before you begin to cook your food. Charcoal that’s still black will continue to burn and you’ll risk burning your food. It’s also important to make sure your grills and griddles are sizzling hot before placing anything on them – to prevent sticking.

• Should I close the lid on my charcoal grill?

  If you want to lower or control the high temperature of your charcoal BBQ grill – then close the lid. This lessens the amount of oxygen available to the coals and your flames will die down. If you’re cooking thin cuts of meat – leave the lid open. Large steaks, roasts and rotisserie meats require a more penetrative heat and closing the lid will have an effect similar to an oven - giving you perfectly roasted results without heavy charring.

• How long does charcoal last for?

  For foods that require direct grilling like burgers, steaks, or kebab skewers – You’ll get about 2-3 hours burn time on your charcoal grill with lump charcoal. For foods that require a longer cooking time, choose charcoal briquettes – these will give you between 4 and 5 hours cooking time.

• How do you keep a charcoal smoker going for hours?

  If your recipe requires a long cooking time close the smoker and adjust the airflow through the top and side vents to oxygenate the fire. Closing the vents will decrease the temperature – to increase the temperature you’ll need to open them. Check your smoker every hour and add charcoal as necessary. For smoking meats, the temperature should stay between 94°C and 121°C