As propane continues to lead in barbecue sales, charcoal barbecues often get stuck with a bad reputation for being too slow, too messy and too smoky. Undeniably, charcoal barbecue grills don’t offer certain features that are designed for convenience on gas and electric grills, but charcoal grills are beginning to catch up in the technology department without sacrificing the traditional experience and affordable price that keeps devotees stirring the coals.

Basic charcoal barbecues operate by dousing coals with lighter fluid and igniting it. The coals can also be mixed with flavored wood chips in order to act as a charcoal barbecue smoker. Many people who own these grills enjoy the multi-purpose quality of coals, which can be used for smoking, direct grilling or indirect grilling (by stacking coals on the sides of the grill and placing the food in the middle of the grate). With the option of performing indirect grilling, you have the ability to cook large cuts of meat (or even whole chickens) evenly without charring the outside. Also, charcoal barbecues are the least expensive grills and can reach far greater heat levels than other grills.

Working with a Charcoal BBQ

There are many factors involved in charcoal grilling that are considered disadvantages, but these drawbacks can be reduced when you use your charcoal BBQ responsibly. A major concern about using coal barbecues (or wood) is the harmful smoke emissions, but you can easily lower the smoke output by lighting with a chimney starter and grilling with natural coals, which burn much cleaner.

Charcoal is the most expensive fuel, costing $3 to $5 per cookout compared to 20¢ for propane and even less for natural gas. You can cut costs by recycling charcoal. Close the lid and vents to extinguish the fire as soon as you finish grilling, and the next time you use it, you’ll only have to clean out the old ash and add half the normal amount of new charcoal.

Other complaints about charcoal barbecues include the amount of post-grilling cleanup and the lack of portability. To cut down on cleanup, look for grills that have porcelain-enameled or stainless steel grates, which are easiest to clean. If you want more mobility, search for portable charcoal barbecues, which typically have wheels and push handles. However, remember that moving a charcoal grill while in use can be dangerous, so always keep the lid down.

What to Look For

There are important features you should look for when purchasing a charcoal barbecue grill. These include:

• Wheels and a push handle
• A tight lid and adequate ventilation system
• A charcoal gas grill, which lights the coals using propane
• Weber products, which are consistently ranked at the top for uniting the best of both worlds

Despite criticism, 33 percent of the population consider themselves charcoal grilling traditionalists. Most of the “disadvantages” associated with using charcoal are entirely a matter of perspective. The price is right and it’s only way to achieve a traditionally smoked meal. If you’re more concerned about enjoying the experience of barbecuing than getting the job done quickly, and if you prefer smoky flavor to a more oven-cooked taste, then a charcoal barbecue is the best option for you.