North Carolina BBQ Forums Q&A

The weather was great this past weekend, hit 80, and of course I had to go get some rib-eye steaks to throw on the grill. I was getting ready to start the coals going when I smelled ‘it’ coming from a neighbor getting ready to grill….lighter fluid!

Never ever use lighter fluid or the bags of pre-soaked charcoal to start your fire. I must admit, I too was one of these people until I ‘saw the light’ and tasted the difference.

So how are you supposed to start your fire?  Use a Charcoal Chimney.

It only takes a newspaper sheet to light, takes about the same amount of time to heat, and does not give the chemical flavor that is too often associated with lighter fluid.  You can pick one of these up at most hardware stores, like Lowes Home Improvement, Home Depot, Ace, etc for around $10.

While I’m at it, if you’re cooking steak or something that requires high heat, use a lump style charcoal instead of your ordinary charcoal (Kingsford). It burns quicker, but gives off a much higher heat…perfect for searing steaks!  I use the Cowboy Lump Charcoal brand from Lowes and am quite happy with it.

Try the Charcoal Chimney and I promise you too will be converted!

- Donald

I second the chimney!!!   I haven't used lighter fluid in over 3-4 years now....I usually use the burner from my grill to light the chimney.  It lights and gets going in about 4 min!!!!  That's just great for a quick meal..

Do you still think its bad to use lighter fluid if your smoking indirectly? Also I generally use a chimney, put the coals in it. Spray a little fluid to light. Once is lit, I dont use it again. I just add wood and coal for the next 10 hours or so. Thoughts?

 

Patrick

If it's a little bit, I guess that's alright, but like I said, you can use some news paper crumbled up and it should light pretty good...about 2-3 pieces wadded up usually does the trick.

Go ahead and invest in the Weber brand chimney...well worth the money.  Also, for indirect, it doesn't make a difference, you are just lighting the charcoal.  It's where you place the lit coals determines the heat placement.