breakdown: Differences Between the Different Types Of Charcoal
Briquettes: These are the most common type of charcoal and are made from a mixture of wood scraps, starch (to hold the briquettes together), and other additives (such as sawdust or mineral char). They are uniform in shape and size, which makes them easy to use and light, but they can also contain chemicals and take longer to light compared to natural lump charcoal.
Lump charcoal: This type of charcoal is made from pure wood, with no additives or binders. It is made by burning wood in a low-oxygen environment, which removes the water, gases, and other impurities, leaving behind only the carbonized wood. Lump charcoal burns hotter and faster than briquettes, and it has a more natural wood flavor. However, it is more expensive and can be harder to find.
Bamboo charcoal: This type of charcoal is made from bamboo, which is burned in a low-oxygen environment to create a lightweight and porous material. Bamboo charcoal is a sustainable alternative to traditional wood charcoal, and it burns hot and clean with no smoke or smell. It is also believed to have some health benefits, such as purifying the air and removing impurities from the grill.
Coconut charcoal: Like bamboo charcoal, coconut charcoal is a sustainable alternative to traditional wood charcoal. It is made from coconut shells that are burned in a low-oxygen environment and then ground into a fine powder. Coconut charcoal burns hot and clean, with no smoke or odor, and it is believed to have some health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cancer and improving cardiovascular health.
Ultimately, the type of charcoal that you choose will depend on your personal preference and the characteristics that you value in a BBQ fuel. Some people prefer the convenience and uniformity of briquettes, while others prefer the natural wood flavor and higher heat of lump charcoal. There are also many sustainable alternatives, such as bamboo and coconut charcoal, that offer unique benefits and a lower impact on the environment.
