How to Use a Charcoal Grill

Cooking over charcoal isn’t just about making great food—it’s an experience. The smoky flavor, the sizzling sound, the outdoor vibes—nothing beats it! Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, this guide by The Trade Table will walk you through how to fire up your charcoal grill, control the heat, and grill to perfection.

Step 1: Choose Your Charcoal 

There are two main types of charcoal, and each has its perks:

✔ Charcoal Briquettes – Burns longer and provides steady heat. Perfect for slow cooking.
✔ Lump Charcoal – Lights faster, burns hotter, and gives better smoky flavor. Great for searing.

Pro Tip: Avoid lighter fluid if you can! It can leave a chemical taste on your food. Instead, try a chimney starter for an easy, clean burn.

Step 2: Light the Charcoal 

How you start your fire matters! Here are four ways to get those coals burning:

✔ Chimney Starter (Best Method!)

1. Fill the chimney with charcoal.
2. Place crumpled newspaper or fire starters underneath.
3. Light it and wait 10-15 minutes until coals turn white and ashy.
4. Carefully pour the hot coals into the grill.

✔ Lighter Fluid (If You Must)

1. Arrange charcoal into a pyramid.
2. Spray lighter fluid onto the pile (never on a lit fire!).
3. Light immediately and let the coals turn white.

✔ Electric Starter

1. Arrange charcoal in a pile.
2. Insert the heating element.
3. Plug it in and wait for the coals to ignite.

✔ Instant Light Charcoal

1. Just pile it up and light it—these coals are pre-treated with accelerant.

Step 3: Control the Heat Zones 

Not all foods cook at the same temperature. Create a two-zone fire for better control:

🔥 Direct Heat (Hot Zone) – Coals on one side for searing steaks and burgers.
🌡️ Indirect Heat (Cool Zone) – No coals on the other side for slow-cooking chicken or ribs.

✔ To increase heat – Open the bottom vent to allow more oxygen.
✔ To lower heat – Open the top vent to let some heat escape.

🔹 Pro Tip: Want smoky flavor? Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes and toss them on the hot coals before cooking.

Step 4: Start Grilling! 

Now it’s time to get cooking!

✔ Preheat the grill – Let the grates heat up for 10-15 minutes.
✔ Clean the grates – Use a grill brush to remove any old residue.
✔ Oil the grates – Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
✔ Grill your food – Place meats over direct heat to sear, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.

Pro Tip: Use a grill thermometer to ensure your food is cooked to the right temperature!

Step 5: Safely Put Out the Fire 

🔥 NEVER dump hot coals in the trash! Here’s how to properly cool down your grill:

✔ Suffocate the fire – Close the lid and vents to cut off oxygen.
✔ Wait 24-48 hours – Coals will cool down naturally.
✔ Dispose safely – Wrap cold ashes in aluminum foil and throw them in the trash.

Pro Tip: Save leftover charcoal! If some pieces are still intact, reuse them for your next cookout.

Bonus Tips for Charcoal Grill Mastery 

✔ Use a drip pan – Keeps food juicy and helps maintain even heat.
✔ Keep the lid closed – Opening too often lets heat escape!
✔ Don’t flip too soon – Let your meat develop a good sear before turning.
✔ Add more coals – If cooking for a long time, add fresh coals every 30-40 minutes.

Using a Charcoal Grill

Now that you know how to use a charcoal grill, get outside and start grilling! With the right techniques, you’ll get perfectly charred burgers, juicy steaks, and smoky ribs every time.

🔥 Need a new charcoal grill, grilling tools, or lump charcoal? Check out The Trade Table for the best outdoor cooking gear!