According to the latest statistics, the average Briton enjoys six to 11 BBQ’s per year with many looking for the little extras that can elevate the cooking experience.
From salt blocks to different types of charcoal, there are various ways to achieve that desired smoky taste so outdoor living experts, Vonhaus, have weighed in with some handy tips.
Liam Glennon, senior buyer at Vonhaus said: “For many people outdoor cooking is more than just a method of preparing food but a means of bringing people together. As ever, the devil lies in the details.
“Whether it’s cooking with lump charcoal or compressed briquettes, there are many little touches you can add to your repertoire to make it a real sizzling summer.”
Here’s how to level-up your grilling game.
Understanding your charcoal
Charcoal is the backbone of any great grilling session. The type of charcoal you choose not only affects the flavour of your food but also the ease and efficiency of your cooking process.
There are two main types of charcoal: lump charcoal and briquettes. Each bring their own unique benefits.
Lump Charcoal
Lump charcoal is made from hardwood, burned in a low-oxygen environment until it turns into carbon. This type of charcoal is known for its purity, as it contains no additives or fillers.
Lump charcoal is a solid choice for those in the pursuit of flavour. It imparts a distinct, smoky flavour to your food when cooking on a charcoal grill which enhances the natural taste of your grilled goods.
This fuel source can be cooked low and slow but works better hotter and faster which makes it superior for smoking and searing meats. Lump charcoal typically burns blazingly hot at 760 degrees Celsius which makes it far hotter than briquettes. It also lights up faster which allows you to start cooking sooner.
It’s worth noting though that lump charcoal’s irregular shape makes it harder to control temperature and can mean inconsistent cooking. It also tends to be more expensive than briquettes.
Charcoal briquettes
Briquettes meanwhile are compressed charcoal blocks made from a composite of charcoal dust and coal with additives, such as binders and fillers, to aid ignition and maintain a consistent smoke.
Briquettes burn far more consistently than lump charcoal and for a longer duration, making them ideal for slow cooking and smoking.
With their uniform shape and size, briquettes provide a far more predictable cooking experience which make them a good choice for beginners. They are also generally cheaper than lump charcoal which provides a reliable, budget-friendly option without compromising on performance.
While they may not offer the same smoky depth of flavour as lump charcoal, their ease-of-use make them a summer-long staple for casual grillers and BBQ aficionados alike.
Grill like a pro with salt blocks
Another option is to use salt blocks which lends a flavourful twist to your traditional BBQ fayre.
Made from Himalayan pink salt, these blocks can be used for grilling, searing and even serving.
Simply place directly onto a preheated grill and allow it to gradually heat up. Place your ingredients atop and prepare for a subtle, salty flavour which reduces the need for additional seasoning.
Salt blocks can withstand high temperatures making them perfect for searing meats and vegetables.
Their visual appeal also makes them an option for serving food and delivering that real ‘WOW factor’ to your guests.
Extra aromatic touches
If you’re looking to really enhance the flavour of your grilled dishes, consider fresh herbs and wood chips for that extra aromatic sizzle. This raises your simple BBQ offering to a feast for all the senses.
Hickory wood chips offer strong, smoky flavour (perfect for beef or pork) while applewood provides a milder, sweeter smoke to fish and poultry.
For added interest, toss in a sprig of rosemary or thyme. These herbs will smoulder, release their fragrant oils and infuse dishes with that full complexity of taste.
By choosing the right charcoal, experimenting with salt blocks, and incorporating wood chips and fresh herbs, you can transform your grilling into a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these extras will help you achieve delicious, flavourful results every time.