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Turn Left at Albuquerque | Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Charcoal BBQ

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Charcoal BBQ

Ever fired up the barbie, chucked on a snag, only to find it burnt on the outside and raw in the middle?
We’ve all been there. Charcoal BBQs can be a bit tricky, but they don’t have to be a source of frustration.

Let’s take a look at the top mistakes people make when using a charcoal BBQ and how you can avoid them to become a true grillmaster.

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Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Charcoal BBQ
One of the biggest mistakes is putting your food on the BBQ before the coals are properly ready.

The Charcoal Chimney Starter is Your Best Mate

First up, using lighter fluid is a recipe for disaster. It can give your food a nasty chemical taste, and nobody wants their steak tasting like petrol.

Instead, grab yourself a charcoal chimney starter. These handy gadgets make lighting charcoal a breeze – just fill it up, light some newspaper underneath, and in about 15 minutes, you’ll have glowing hot coals ready to go. No fuss, no chemicals, just pure fire.

Patience Is Key

Don’t rush the process! One of the biggest mistakes is putting your food on the BBQ before the coals are properly ready.

You want those coals to be white-hot with a slight ash coating. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents those dreaded flare-ups that can char your food in seconds.

So, take your time, crack open a cold one, and let those coals do their thing.

Don’t Crowd the Grill

We get it, you’re keen to feed the hungry horde, but overcrowding the grill is a big no-no. Leaving some space between your snags, steaks, and veggies allows for proper heat circulation and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Plus, it makes it easier to flip and move things around without creating a BBQ traffic jam.

How to Barbecue the Perfect Steak Every Time
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Keep the Lid Closed!

Think of your BBQ like an oven. Every time you lift the lid, you’re letting out precious heat, which can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times.

Resist the urge to peek! Trust the process, keep that lid closed as much as possible, and let the magic happen.

Temperature Control is Key

Unlike a gas BBQ, controlling the temperature on a charcoal BBQ takes a bit of finesse. You can adjust the heat by opening or closing the vents on your BBQ. More air flow means hotter coals, while less air flow reduces the heat.

It’s all about finding the sweet spot for what you’re cooking. A good thermometer is your best friend here, helping you maintain the perfect temperature for everything from sizzling steaks to slow-cooked ribs.

Ready to Grill Like a Pro?

If you’re ready to take your charcoal BBQ game to the next level, pop into Turn Left @ Albuquerque BBQ and chat with our experts, or browse our online store today. 

Our team can help you choose the right charcoal, accessories, and offer personalised advice to make you a true grillmaster. Happy grilling!

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