How often should you add Fresh Charcoal? Can you add it as is, or does it need to be lit?

Appears in

Published 1998

About

As charcoal burns, it gradually generates less and less heat. In general when you are using a prolonged cooking method, the coals need to be replenished once every hour. Charcoal briquettes may last a little longer; lump charcoal may burn out a little more quickly. When using lump charcoal, you can add fresh charcoal directly to the lit coals. Leave the grill uncovered for five to ten minutes while the lump charcoal lights.

When to Use a Drip Pan

When grilling food by the indirect method, including barbecuing, it’s a good idea to use a drip pan. The drip pan serves three purposes: First, it helps you define the area for indirect grilling. Second, it collects the drippings from ribs, ducks, and other fatty foods. Finally, some grill jockeys use the drip pan to hold water, beer, wine, marinades, and other flavorful liquids to create a steamy environment that helps keep food moist during prolonged cooking.

The disposable aluminum foil roasting pans that you find in supermarkets make great drip pans. When you are indirect grilling on a charcoal grill, place the pan between the mounds of hot coals under the grate.

Many gas grills have built-in drip pans. If yours does, you don’t have to add another one. Always be sure to empty the drip pan after each grill session. Otherwise, you run the risk of getting bad smells and raccoons.