Gas barbecues are a popular choice for outdoor cooking, as they are convenient, easy to use, and produce consistent heat. However, many people wonder whether they need to use coal on a gas bbq to achieve the best results. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using coal on a gas bbq, the different types of coal that can be used, and some tips for using coal on a gas bbq.
Pros and Cons of Using Coal on a Gas BBQ
Using coal on a gas bbq has both advantages and disadvantages. One of the main advantages is that it can add a smoky flavor to the food that is being cooked. This is because the coal produces smoke as it burns, which can infuse the food with a delicious smoky flavor.
Another advantage of using coal on a gas bbq is that it can help to create a more even heat distribution. This is because the coal can help to absorb and distribute the heat more evenly, which can help to prevent hot spots and ensure that the food is cooked evenly.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using coal on a gas bbq. One of the main disadvantages is that it can be messy and time-consuming to set up the coal. This is because the coal needs to be lit and allowed to heat up before it can be used, which can take some time.
Another disadvantage of using coal on a gas bbq is that it can be difficult to control the temperature. This is because the heat produced by the coal can be difficult to regulate, which can make it challenging to cook food to the desired level of doneness.
Types of Coal That Can Be Used on a Gas BBQ
There are several types of coal that can be used on a gas bbq, each with its own unique properties. Here are some of the most commonly used types of coal:
Lump charcoal: Lump charcoal is made from natural wood, and it burns hotter and faster than briquettes. It also produces less ash, which can make it easier to clean up after cooking.
Briquettes: Briquettes are made from compressed sawdust and other materials, and they burn more slowly and evenly than lump charcoal. They also produce more ash than lump charcoal, which can make them messier to use.
Coconut charcoal: Coconut charcoal is made from coconut shells, and it burns hotter and longer than other types of charcoal. It also produces less ash than briquettes, which can make it easier to clean up after cooking.
Binchotan charcoal: Binchotan charcoal is a type of Japanese charcoal made from oak or other hardwoods. It burns hotter and longer than other types of charcoal, and it produces very little smoke or ash.
Tips for Using Coal on a Gas BBQ
If you decide to use coal on a gas bbq, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Use a charcoal basket: A charcoal basket can help to keep the coal contained and prevent it from spreading out too much. This can help to create a more even heat distribution and prevent hot spots.
Preheat the coal: It is important to preheat the coal before using it on the gas bbq. This can help to ensure that it is evenly heated and ready to use.
Use a chimney starter: A chimney starter can help to make it easier to light the coal and get it ready for use. Simply fill the chimney starter with coal, light it, and let it heat up until the coal is ready to use.
Use a combination of gas and coal: If you are new to using coal on a gas bbq, you may want to start by using a combination of gas and coal. This can help you to get a feel for how the coal affects the heat and flavor of the food.
Use a smoker box: A smoker box is a small metal box that can be filled with wood chips or chunks and placed on the gas grill. This can help to add a smoky flavor to the food without the need for coal.
Use a temperature controller: A temperature controller can help to regulate the heat and ensure that the food is cooked to the desired level of doneness. This can be particularly helpful when using coal, as it can be difficult to control the temperature.
Clean the grill grates: It is important to clean the grill grates before and after using coal on a gas bbq. This can help to prevent any leftover ash or debris from affecting the flavor of the food.
Conclusion
Using coal on a gas bbq can be a great way to add flavor and create a more even heat distribution. However, it is important to be aware of the pros and cons of using coal, as well as the different types of coal that can be used. By following these tips and experimenting with different types of coal, you can achieve delicious results on your gas bbq. Whether you choose to use coal or not, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of outdoor cooking!