Charcoal grills use wood, charcoal briquettes, or a combination of both to heat and cook food. They burn hotter than ordinary gas-fueled grills. One benefit of charcoal grills is that they do not require separate smoking apparatuses. However, heating or cooking using them may take longer than usual.
Hibachi Charcoal Grills use very little fuel, but produce very hot surfaces. They are small and save a lot of space. They are ideal for grilling appetizers and small meal entrées.
Kettle-style Charcoal Grills look like kettles. They can grill foods over high direct heat or cook food slowly using indirect heat smoking. Most models have high levels of heat retention and have durable pots, thick lids, metal grills, and flame settings. They can be left unattended for a while.
Construction: Look for a stable charcoal grill with solid construction. It’s very difficult to cook on a wobbly grill.
Air vents: Choose a charcoal grill with air vents both on top and at the bottom to control cooking temperatures. These grills help keep food from burning.
Insulated handles: For added safety, choose a charcoal grill with insulated handles that stay cool even in high temperatures. Lid: Choose a charcoal grill with a tight-fitting lid to grill food fast and easy. Lids help in indirect heat grilling.
Pot: If you want to get a kettle-style charcoal grill, choose one with a heavy pot, which increases the unit’s heat retention. A large pot can also serve as a convection oven especially if it is matched with an appropriate lid because it allows hot air to circulate around the food.
