Nothing beats the bold, smoky flavor of a true charcoal grill. At DDR BBQ Supply, we stock a rugged lineup of charcoal grills that are built for performance, durability, and unforgettable BBQ. Whether you're looking for a competition-grade setup or a basic charcoal grill to get started, we've got something for every fire-loving cook
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of cooking on a charcoal grill versus a gas grill?
Charcoal grills reach higher searing temperatures than most gas grills and produce the smoke and radiant heat that give charcoal-cooked food its distinctive flavor. The Maillard reaction - responsible for the complex browned crust on steaks and burgers - is more pronounced at the extreme heat charcoal delivers. Charcoal cooking also gives you more control over smoke flavor by adding wood chunks or chips directly to the coals, something gas grills cannot replicate with the same intensity.
What type of charcoal should I use in a charcoal grill?
Lump hardwood charcoal burns hotter, cleaner, and produces less ash than briquettes, making it the preferred choice for high-heat searing and ceramic or kamado-style grills. Briquettes burn more consistently and predictably over longer periods, which makes them well-suited for indirect cooks and extended smoking sessions. Competition briquettes - which contain minimal binders - offer a middle ground of consistency without the chemical taste associated with lower-quality charcoal products.
How long does it take to light a charcoal grill?
Using a chimney starter, charcoal is ready to cook in 15 to 20 minutes from lighting. The chimney method requires no lighter fluid and produces coals that are evenly lit edge-to-edge, which is the most reliable way to start a charcoal fire. Avoid starting with lighter fluid if possible - it can impart an off-flavor to food if the coals are not fully burned through before cooking begins.
How do I clean a charcoal grill?
After each cook, allow the grill to cool, then discard ash from the ash catcher or kettle bowl before the next use - accumulated ash restricts airflow and can cause uneven burning. Brush grates while still warm using a grill brush or scraper. Every few cooks, wipe down the interior of the grill bowl with a damp cloth to remove grease and carbon buildup. Inspect the vents and dampers periodically to ensure they open and close freely.
Can I smoke meat on a charcoal grill, or do I need a dedicated smoker?
Charcoal grills can absolutely function as smokers using the two-zone setup: coals banked to one side with the food placed on the opposite side over indirect heat. Adding wood chunks - not chips, which burn too quickly - directly onto the coals produces smoke throughout the cook. With a water pan placed between the coals and the meat to moderate temperature and add moisture, a charcoal kettle grill can produce results comparable to a dedicated offset smoker for most cuts.
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With over 35 years of smoking experience, we started DDR BBQ Supply with a simple goal: to help others cook better barbecue. We've spent decades learning what works and what doesn't, and we apply that knowledge to every product we carry. From high-performance grills and smokers to carefully selected rubs, sauces, and tools, everything we offer is something we believe in and use ourselves. We don’t believe in cutting corners or selling gear we wouldn’t rely on during our own backyard cooks and when we compete in BBQ competitions.