There’s something deeply satisfying about grilling with charcoal. The ritual of lighting the coals, the unmistakable smoky aroma, and the hands-on cooking experience, it’s no surprise that Charcoal BBQ's remain a firm favorite among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
And if you're still wondering whether a charcoal grill is right for you, here’s everything you need to know.
Benefits of Using a Charcoal BBQ
Charcoal BBQ's offer several benefits that make them a preferred choice for many grillers. Here are a few reasons why:
Let’s start with the most obvious one: taste. Nothing beats that rich, smoky flavor that only charcoal can deliver. Whether you're using briquettes or lump charcoal, the intense heat and aromatic smoke give food a depth of flavor that gas grills simply can’t match. For many people, this is the number one reason to stick with charcoal.
It may seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, charcoal gives you fantastic control over heat. Want a quick sear? Pile the coals high. Going for a slow roast? Spread them out and close the vents. With a bit of practice, you’ll be switching between direct and indirect heat like a pro.
Think BBQs are just for burgers and sausages? Think again. With a Charcoal BBQ, you can cook pizza, roast whole chickens, grill vegetables, or even bake bread. Some models come with multi-level grates, rotisserie attachments, or can double as a charcoal smoker—perfect for low-and-slow dishes like brisket or pulled pork.
Planning a picnic, camping trip, or beach day? Many charcoal grills are compact, lightweight, and easy to transport. You don’t need a gas hookup or electricity—just some charcoal and a spark. That makes charcoal BBQs ideal for spontaneous outdoor adventures.
Level Up with a Charcoal Smoker
If you're the kind of person who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen—or in this case, the garden—consider adding a charcoal smoker to your setup. These are designed to cook food slowly over low heat, using a combination of charcoal and wood chips. The result? Incredibly tender meat with a deep, smoky flavor that you just can’t rush.
Some BBQs offer the best of both worlds, functioning as both grill and smoker. So if you’ve always wanted to master the art of slow cooking, this might be the perfect excuse to give it a go.
A Few Tips to Get Started
Grilling with charcoal can feel a bit old-school, but that’s part of the charm. And with a few smart tips, you’ll get great results every time:
And most importantly: take your time. Charcoal BBQs are all about the process, not just the outcome.
Alternative Products
If you're going all-in on outdoor living, it’s worth investing in the right accessories and surroundings. A Charcoal BBQ is just the beginning—here are a few items that can take your garden setup to the next level:
Turn your garden into a cozy outdoor dining room. Whether you’re after a rustic wooden set or something sleek and modern, the right furniture makes every BBQ feel like a mini holiday.
A tidy garden makes everything more enjoyable. Invest in quality tools—shovels, rakes, shears—and your space will be BBQ-ready all season long.
Got a pond or water feature? Keep it fresh and clear with the right filters and pumps. A bubbling pond adds a peaceful touch to any outdoor meal.
Grow your own herbs, veggies, or tomatoes right next to your grill. Raised beds, compost bins, and seed kits are all you need to start harvesting your own side dishes.
Add a bit of life (and birdsong) to your BBQ spot with a bird feeder or bath. Watching robins or finches flutter around while you grill? Pure zen.
As the sun goes down, the right lighting sets the mood. Think string lights over your dining table or lanterns near the grill for late-night sessions.
Still not ready to head indoors? Gather around a fire pit to wind down the evening. Bonus: some models come with grill grates, turning them into makeshift BBQs themselves.
Charcoal grilling is about more than just food—it’s about the atmosphere, the experience, and the joy of being outside. So whether you’re upgrading your garden, planning a summer full of outdoor meals, or just looking to enjoy better BBQs, a charcoal grill might just be the missing piece.
Ready to light the fire?
