Selecting the right charcoal can transform your BBQ experience, helping you achieve delicious results every time. The best charcoal doesn’t only enhance flavours but also affects heat, cooking speed, and ease of use.
Here, we’ll explore the various types of charcoal, so you can pick the one that suits your needs best:
1. Lumpwood Charcoal
Lumpwood charcoal is a popular choice among BBQ enthusiasts who value natural products. Made from pieces of pure hardwood, lumpwood is chemical-free and delivers a rich, smoky flavour that enhances the taste of grilled food. It burns quickly and at high temperatures, making it perfect for searing meat.
2. Charcoal Briquettes
Charcoal briquettes are crafted from a mix of wood and other additives, designed to burn steadily and for a long time. This makes them ideal for cooking meats that require a slow, steady heat. Due to their longer burn time, briquettes are a reliable choice for extended BBQ sessions or larger gatherings.
3. Coconut Shell Charcoal
Coconut shell charcoal is gaining popularity due to its sustainability and eco-friendliness. Made from the shells of coconuts, it’s a renewable product that burns longer than traditional wood charcoal. It also produces less ash, which means less clean-up. Known for its mild flavour, coconut shell charcoal is ideal for cooking vegetables and seafood, where a gentler smoky taste is preferred.
4. Binchotan Charcoal
For those who want to elevate their BBQ to a gourmet level, binchotan charcoal is an exceptional choice. Originating from Japan, binchotan burns at a steady, extremely high heat without producing much smoke or odour. This charcoal is best used for foods that need precise cooking temperatures and minimal flavour interference.
5. Quebracho Charcoal
Quebracho, sometimes referred to as “axe breaker,” is made from a dense South American hardwood. This type of charcoal is extremely durable and burns slowly, making it suitable for long cooking sessions. Known for its strong, earthy flavour, quebracho charcoal is popular among grillers looking to add an intense, natural taste to their food.
If you’re looking for the best charcoal in Australia, consider exploring these types, as each offers unique benefits that can complement different grilling styles.
Choosing the best charcoal can greatly influence your BBQ results. Whether you’re aiming for intense heat, long-lasting embers, or sustainable grilling, the variety of charcoal options ensures that there’s a type suited for every grilling need. Select the right one, and let the BBQ magic begin!