Lots of folks are perplexed by how to light charcoal. Some use lighter fluid and stand watch over a towering inferno of flames hoping that no nearby children or pets get burned while others find themselves standing over a pathetic smokey pile of black charcoal that never seems to get hot. So for those who enjoy cooking over charcoal (that would be me), here are some tips on how to do it right:
First, don’t use lighter fluid. It can leave an unpleasant odor or taste on the food. Instead, use a charcoal chimney (easily found at Ace Hardware or the grilling section in Meijer). Fill the chimney up based on how much charcoal you need….I usually fill it close to the top, figuring I can leave the leftover charcoal in the grill and use it next time. Put some paper in the bottom of the chimney and then……wait. And then wait some more. And then continue to wait. Lots of folks make the common mistake of dumping the charcoal into the grill once they see lots of smoke….
