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