Getting confused with buying the Best Charcoal for Smoking Meat? You must opt for such a charcoal that has got a lasting flavor on the meat, and the one which provides a steady heat. There are different types of coal available in the market, therefore, choosing the right one becomes difficult for a naive user. Find out your answer below.
Which is the Best Charcoal for Smoking Meat
Some people may recommend using Hardwood for the smoking purpose, while there are others who use charcoal for creating the heat in the smokers. But the main challenge comes now, and that is not all them are designed in the same manner.
The first step while searching for Charcoal is to avoid all the self-starting charcoals. They come with lighter fluid additives and helps in keeping the fuel burning for a longer time. This kind of coal is not good for the health, and not even suitable for the environment too.
If you wish to go with a cheaper option, then get that type of coal which is free of any additives. Buy the basic black coal, which is as clean and simple as possible. Also, avoid those types which include any wood flavor in it. Get the basic charcoal with no added flavors in it.
Next, comes the maintenance of the coal. After getting the basic, clean coal, it is equally important to store it in the right manner. If the coal gets damp for any reason, then it won’t be of any use to you. The wet one does not burn well, and it may also give some weird flavor to the cooked meat.
To step up one level, go for the Lump Charcoal. They are the real wood pieces which have been treated with the charcoal. They give an authentic flavor to the meat and is found to be the best among all the Charcoal Types. This type can provide the flame for a longer time and is costly too. You can easily locate the lump variety at any place / store which sells the smoker and other BBQ equipment.
Points to Consider while Buying Lump Charcoal
- If you have selected one brand for buying Lump Charcoal, check the history of the brand. Look out for all the systems provided by the same company.
- Say no to all the kinds of coals with any type of additives.
- Check for the charcoals which are easy with the light up purpose.
- Do you find any chemical smell on igniting it?
- Look out for the coal which is consistent with the burning. There should be less fluctuations with the temperature and heat generated.
- The amount of the ash produced after the burning, speak a lot about the quality.
- Cost should be economical, don’t go for any costly variety available in the market.
Also to add, you have to try out different brands before finalizing the one charcoal product. Even the burn time is important to consider, so check for the duration of heat provided for the smoker. And finally test on all the coal lumps for consistent performance.
That’s it with the Charcoal Selection, you are all set to get started with your Smoker!