Grilling is an art, and just like any masterpiece, it requires the right tools. While many focus on the grill itself, the fuel source is just as important. Whether you’re smoking meats low and slow or searing a perfect steak, choosing the best charcoal can significantly impact flavour, heat control, and cooking consistency.
But with so many options available, how do you know which one to choose?
1. Lump Charcoal – The Natural Choice
Lump charcoal is made from pure hardwood, offering a clean burn with minimal additives. It ignites quickly, burns hotter, and produces less ash, making it ideal for high-heat grilling. Because it consists of irregularly shaped pieces, it allows greater airflow, giving grillers precise temperature control. If you love an authentic smoky flavour, lump charcoal is a top pick.
Best for: Searing steaks, fast grilling, and ceramic grills.
2. Charcoal Briquettes – Consistent and Long-Lasting
Briquettes are made from compressed sawdust and other organic materials. They burn at a steady rate and provide consistent heat, making them perfect for longer cooking sessions. While some briquettes contain binders and additives, high-quality, natural briquettes offer a cleaner burn with excellent fuel efficiency.
Best for: Slow-cooking, smoking, and grilling large batches.
3. Binchotan – The Premium Japanese Charcoal
Binchotan is a traditional Japanese white charcoal known for its ultra-clean burn and long-lasting heat. It emits minimal smoke and ash while maintaining a steady temperature for hours. Though expensive, its purity and efficiency make it a favourite among professional chefs.
Best for: Yakitori, seafood, and delicate grilling.
4. Coconut Shell Charcoal – Sustainable and Smokeless
Made from discarded coconut shells, this eco-friendly charcoal burns longer than standard lump charcoal while producing less smoke and odour. It’s an excellent choice for grilling in urban areas where excessive smoke might be an issue.
Best for: Indoor grilling, sustainable cooking, and low-smoke grilling.
5. Choosing the Right Charcoal in Australia
With a wide range of grilling traditions and climates, selecting the right charcoal in Australia depends on your cooking needs. For backyard barbecues, high-quality lump charcoal is widely available. If you’re planning long smoking sessions, natural briquettes offer steady heat. For those experimenting with Asian grilling styles, binchotan is worth the investment.
The best charcoal depends on your grilling style, heat requirements, and flavour preferences. Whether you prefer the natural burn of lump charcoal or the steady heat of briquettes, choosing high-quality charcoal enhances your grilling experience. Take the time to experiment, and you’ll soon discover the perfect fuel for your next barbecue feast.