Back To The Basics BBQ Series: Charcoal Grilling Basics

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

If you enjoyed this video, I put this list of videos that I think you'd also like! The ONLY Way I Smoke Salmon: kzbin.info/www/bejne/boCwn52amtGtpqc Beer Can Chicken: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vElmB9h952rZI BEST Pellet Grill Brisket: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqKuin6JfLqdftE BEST Smoked Burger: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qn2QmaCijKt2kJI

[@493Jester]

Just picked up my first kettle today. Thanks for taking the time to show this newbie the basics. First meal was delicious.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad you enjoyed !

[@grantsmith505]

​@AndersonsSmokeShow 100k subs Congratulations

[@markandbettyjohnson5703]

I found that if I fill a chimney starter, the bottom briquets are 20% consumed by the time the tops ones are ready. I use two chimney starters half filled. All the briquets are ready sooner as well.

[@69FOSTER]

Couldn't agree more about the Weber Kettle. I had a Weber Q gas grill for over 10 years and it worked great, but it was shot after all those years and was all set to replace it with another gas grill. Then I still had my Dad's very old Weber Kettle that doesn't even have any kind of openings on the bottom, the air vents are on the side and the lid. I tell you, that Kettle works so great, I have been on the barbeque kick since. Thanks to youtube videos like these, I was finally able to 'Q up chicken for the first time without ruining it. Two zone grilling works so well! I don't know if I'll ever go back to a gas grill again!

[@patrickhenry236]

Welcome to the club. There is a kettle section on the WSM forum, and the group of people there are for the most part great. They can give you tips, or you can just share your bbq adventures.

[@69FOSTER]

@@patrickhenry236 Thanks for the tip on the WSM forum, I'll check it out! I've been doing OK, but I could use more grilling tips for the kettle to take my grilling to the next level.

[@michaelmcgee4209]

I am so glad that all of these popular youtube people always use a thermometer. I was always told that "real men can tell by feel." And after using a good thermometer like actual PRO'S use. My food is way better. Thermometers are a must.

[@toboioioioioioioioioioioio7966]

What are some good thermometer brands?

[@ancienttartan3509]

My method is to never worry about my vents. I leave the top and the bottom fully open. My trick is to leave the steak on the hot side, close the lid, and set my watch timer to three minutes and fifteen seconds (approx) for each side. (This time typically gives me a juicy medium rare). That's it. Leave the vents open. Monitor your time. Experiment with the time if necessary. Also, before I throw the steak over the coals, I add three small pieces of hickory wood that you can get in bags at any walmart. When the pieces of wood have finally been completely engulfed, that's when I start cooking the steak. The hickory really makes the steak's flavor pop.

[@arnoldo24]

Man! This is the best how to grill a steak I seen. I tell you what, you are so fortunate to have your dad show you how to use the grill, us the ones without father figure we really appreciate the knowledge you have and shear with us so we can teach our children’s how to do things and be really good at grilling.

[@deanlockamy2087]

I started out on the small kettle grills, but then I graduated to bigger more expensive and some say better gas, smoker you name it, years later I'm back to the kettle and life is good.

[@sx200n1]

Yeah gas is good and quick and convenient, but you will never get the same quality and taste from the food. Yes some gas BBQs do allow you to do an element of smoking, but the results still aren't the same.

[@djkeltn]

After years on a Big Green Egg, I’m back to simpler cooks. I had to move and left the BGE behind. So a Webber seems to fit my life now. Steaks and burgers and fish and pork chops ..

[@99slayer99]

I like how you are straight to the point, great video.

[@David-mw3th]

I love my 20yr old webber kettle. For charcoal, I use Kingsford. Its very consistent from bag to bag.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I'm of the same belief! Very consistent product

[@woohunter1]

I had (still have) expensive gas grills, pellet grill/smokers, etc. finally went ‘backwards’ and got a Webber Kettle with a rotisserie, couldn’t be happier.

[@rifof18]

Great video. One thing i would add as far as the use of the damper. I think its important to note how and where to position the top one for the heat flow, and where the food is in this flow.

[@elis51501]

Trying my hand with my newly purchased Weber kettle grill today, ribeyes baked potatoes asparagus Texas toast and a salad for my father in laws bday:) I’ll be making use of your great tutorial, thankyou!

[@KaoV1983]

It takes time to learn but the Weber kettle is amazing. And is the most versatile grill a person can get. Great video!

[@BigDaddy-vg3es]

Just bought a Nexgrill 22in kettle. I have pellet smokers and a bullet smoker. Looking forward to learning more and upping my game.

[@txmatt2112]

Haven’t used my kettle in seven or eight years. But after watching your video, I’m going back. I just seem to use my pellet or my griddle but really for steaks they’ve never turned out as good as doing them on a charcoal grill so I think it’s time to go back to the basics. Thank you.

[@secondratefilms635]

Great video. Answered all my questions without beating around the bush!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks for watching

[@craigreiner6474]

best video i saw explaining proper use of these grills thanks so much my first try i dont think i had the grill hot enough very clear explanations on how to vent properly

[@bobfisher9452]

Great back to the basics video brother. I just purchased a 26" kettle today. I was planning on getting a pellet grill again but there is no reason to spend the extra money as far as I'm concerned. I've had offset smokers, vertical pellet smokers, Vertical electric smokers, Tried them all! These grills do a great job and are hard to beat for the money, and there are a ton of accessories for these smokers/Grills. Thanks again!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Kettles will be here forever! Thanks for watching

[@richardzink6026]

This guy knows what he's talking about. NO LIGHTER FLUID OR MATCH LIGHT

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Golden rule of charcoal grilling 👍🏻

[@dkeele]

Great video, excited for this series.

[@waynethompson4315]

I agree with you on lump vs briquettes as far as consistency. I have a bag of lump right now with a couple pieces that are larger than my fist and others the size of a penny. If I want low and slow, I always go with briquettes.

[@philipwaldner5345]

Love the idea of back to the basics with the Kettle. Thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks!

[@alanrubio6708]

This is what I needed to hear! I just bought a weber an used a Pancho Villa mesquite lump coal It did not burn completely maybe cus i did not put enough? But he is correct its a gamble lots of bits and pieces.

[@SnSGrills]

What a great series! We can't wait to see more recipes and tips this summer!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Got a real banger coming tomorrow!

[@dbkfrogkaty1]

Excellent video man. Covered all the basics. I have the 22" Weber Performer Deluxe grill. That thing is awesome. It has four wheels and a good sized side table so its easy to roll around my patio if needed. The "Touch n Go" propane charcoal lighting system is great. Just put the charcoal in the chimney, place it on the lower grate, then push the button. Let it go for a couple of minutes until the charcoal lights then turn it off. Simple. I also agree with using a thermometer for checking your food. They are so easy to use. Charcoal? Kingsford man, that's all I use.

[@joseveliz218]

Thanks this was a good refresher. Went over the basics of the Weber Kettle. I’ve grilled many times but been a while since I’ve done it at home.

[@Gretschdrums01]

Hell yea man, personally even after all these years I do everything on my kettle or my smokey mountain. Best way to learn and best way to really know what you're doing. While I love all your videos, I know this serious will be my favorite.

[@LakesideTable]

This recipe sounds like the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. It's the best of both worlds!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks

[@jbones2121]

The instant read thermometer was a game changer. I went from thinking "man I can't grill' to "Man I wanna grill everything'". and I got a cheap 30 thermo pen

[@nathancuellar4403]

I never have problems with lump coal. I also do use charcoal briquettes too.

[@mr.snicker-doodles7081]

WOW this is amazing! So much great and important info in this Video! I'm a long time gas griller from WAY back, but always had issues with controlling my heat with charcoal! After watching this many of the mystery were solved! thank you, I Subscribed!!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks! I appreciate the kind words!

[@DVDAVL2007]

Best grill cooking Class, i have seen so far on YT... Thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

More to come with this series too!

[@ShaidHosain]

I recently bought my first grill and this was the exact video I needed, Thanks brother!

[@richardzink6026]

I have had many different grills gas.. charcoal smoker. I can tell you the best is the weber kettle.

[@GrahamHolton-bt2cx]

What a great video and explanation how to use a weber kettle. I would never cook anything apart from burgers and sausages, not now. Really big thanks for this. 👍

[@noogman]

My issue with Lump Charcoal is the sparks that it gives off. If you live in a dry area that is something to consider. Never have seen Briquets give off a spark.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

That’s a good point!

[@christiem5741]

Excellent job. It was easy to watch you demonstrate.

[@nadk8886]

Excellent video. Extremely informative. You know how to explain stuff very clearly and precise 🙏🏼

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks!

[@mikej3584]

Love this, all I use are kettles. I have one with a slow n sear and I have one I use exclusively with a rotisserie ring. All we need! Thank you for sharing. Support from New Hampshire!

[@nadk8886]

Hi, what's the difference slow n sear and is it better to get it?

[@RamPatriot]

Excellent presentation!

[@amonrah1788]

Thank you so much, fantastic video.

[@CrossCutCreations]

This is solid information and a great resource for the present and future. Thanks for this video!

[@BobBuddy_]

An important difference between charcoal and briquettes is that charcoal ignites quicker and burns faster and hotter than briquettes. If you want to quickly prepare a steak then the effort of using briquettes is not worth it. However, if you are making a brisket then briquettes are your preferred choice as they burn longer and more consistently. Edit: Next time, try turning your steak every 20-30 seconds, do this about 5-6 times per side more or less, the crust will look much nicer and more even.

[@mitchheaden7727]

Carnivore. Yessss. Thanks for your knowledge. I'm looking for a kettle grill. I like this slow and sear.

[@marcelllopez6065]

Hell yeah, thanks for the video!!

[@joesgarage6613]

Love this series already! Looking forward to more of this!

[@Edward135i]

I really like the Jealous Devil XL Maxx Charcoal Briquette they are much bigger than the Kingsford, get really really hot and last for a long time, and have a some what unique flavor because they are made from a South American hardwood tree that we just don't have in north America.

[@shawnp6653]

Thanks for this video. Going back to charcoal :) About how long does it take to kill the fire after closing the dampers? Gotta check out some more of your stuff!

[@doublej963]

As always brother another great video, keep up the great work buddy 💯👍

[@travisfrederic1339]

Great video!!! THANK YOU. I'm ditching my pit boss for one of these!!

[@thepoboy9698]

I'm really gonna enjoy hanging out with you, Great job.

[@PostalBarbecue]

Wow, I love love love this series already! Can’t wait to see the next episode!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Next ones dropping tomorrow!

[@AMMOBBQ]

Amazing video. I was thinking about getting an SNS. Thank you for getting into all the details.

[@bellepepper4201]

Excellent teaching! Thank you!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thank you!

[@richardmulcahy8607]

Great video Andrew!

[@cm2687]

Good info. But I always thought you were supposed to put the steaks on the cool grates and keep spinning so you’re getting a more even sear

[@kennytilney2462]

I typically do that. I try to avoid sear (grill) lines as much as possible. Maybe overkill but I even open my grate when the coals are igniting so the grate doesn’t get rippin hot 😂. Nothing against this video, all good info.

[@rees-9941]

just wanted to thank you for an incredibly helpful video.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Madknick]

Outstanding basic video thank you

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks for watching

[@musicalfreestyles]

This is exactly the info I needed! Thanks for running thru these important points.

[@jlomeli07]

Always go with the lump I’ve been drillin for over 20 years

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Lump is good, but it’s too inconsistent in quality for me. I’ve thrown away too many half bags of just dust and tiny pieces

[@DjAkZee]

Whats better Gas grills or Charcoal grills? Beginner here...Good Video thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Well depends on you. I don’t mind taking a little time to get charcoal lit because the taste on charcoal is better. Some people want the convenience and gas is pretty much the king for that.

[@woohunter1]

Charcoal takes a little longer but is worth the extra time, and a tad bit more work.

[@richardzink6026]

It's easy to control temperatures use kingsford I'm sure

[@cowhead0201]

Just bought my first Grill over the pond in the UK. This is really helpful and Ill be looking to fire it up the first time this weekend. And a new subscriber has arrived. Cheers mate.

[@sx200n1]

Yeah I took just ordered mine and DPD delivered it yesterday. Went for a Napoleon Kettle Grill rather than Weber. But cooked on gas for ages and can't wait to get back to charcoal/wood - you just can't beat the flavour and taste.

[@cowhead0201]

@@sx200n1 Had a weekend with my grill. Loved it. Dinners, meal prep all done on there. Even a fry up. Did struggle with getting it to temp but I dont think I had enough coals on so will try improve that

[@sx200n1]

@@cowhead0201 nice. Just getting it going now, but have tried without the charcoal baskets (still on order) and some of th charcoal I have does slip through the grate which isn't ideal. Might need to wait for the baskets to make it easier. Although larger charcoal pieces would also help.

[@josefernandez2722]

Thanks so much for this. I have a couple of questions. Which position in the bottom is completely open? Is it in the middle or all the way to the left or right? Also, how to properly let the grill heat up enough until it kills any bacteria then grill brushing? Since only a portion has the charcoal, would you have to alternate the heat before brushing each section?

[@jeffwainwright7381]

Love the kettle but most are indirect slow cooks (smoking) very few do any direct cooks (grilling) which is how most of us started... For one the kettle doesn't really give you that distance between fire and protein with the exception of steak... Chicken really needs about 18 inches for proper distance and fire management as well as ribs both of which can be grilled in 45 minutes to 1 hour... Yes I can grill'm on kettle but my experience for (grilling) is you need more distance

[@AnhDonoi]

Why does this video not have more views? Very informative for beginners

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I wish it did!

[@ingemarrydberg3045]

Thanks, great video!

[@BigMuff75]

Really great video, appreciate it!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks for watching!

[@nygreenguy]

I know its been almost a year but i really hope to see more in this series!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

There’s more coming!

[@hawkeyeted]

If I was stranded on an island and could only have one cooker, it would be a kettle. It can do everything more expensive grills and smokers can.

[@marcusfabiousmaximus3463]

Great video, I just bought the SnS grill is their any seasoning I need to do or just use it? Thanks

[@lxtwin]

Is updating a Weber kettle a waste of money? I have a Weber kettle from 2004, it has an ash catcher, but none of the little things. I have added a thermometer and it has a lid hanger. I often think about updating it, but don't see what I would get besides hangers on the handle. Is there anything really different between today's model and one 20 years old?

[@SmokedReb]

Amazing video!

[@pnortiz1]

Very well done video! Thank you!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad you liked it!

[@AntLive29]

i'm gonna need medium well

[@barbell_barriente]

My kettle is on the way! Gotta get ready for the summer!!😅

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Heck yeah!

[@mikewilson8594]

Great video!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@krob777]

I bought one of those thermo pens! It broke on me. Didn’t use it 15 times! So I bought a thermal pro for $9.99 works great so far! I could buy nine more for the price of that one thermo pen!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Did you look into their warranty?

[@krob777]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow No wasn’t worth time and effort. To me A product like this, so highly touted and recommended should last for years not 15 times!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

@krob777 I would still contact them if you have it. I’ve got 3, two of which I’ve paid for and they have been flawless since day one!

[@KaBrook]

I've seen sparkling water do the business to keep a steak hydrated. Would this affect the fire and can it be applied here for juicyness? What a great video!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

How so? Soak in sparking water? Spritz?

[@KaBrook]

@AndersonsSmokeShow I've watched a couple of videos on YT where they've doused their steaks in sparkling water to keep it tender. I'm sure it was that Guga Foods account that tried it. Worth a watch! 👍 you should be next to give it a try 😁

[@georgelooney6826]

Got a question about the top vent. Does it matter about where it is? (Above / away the meat, above / away the coals). Would this affect cooking?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Vent over the food so that the smoke drafts over it.

[@GiggaOpp]

my issue im having is even with open air flow 1 full chimney of coal isnt getting my grill past 300 degrees

[@johnmiett6032]

I'm hooked.

[@littlesquidaus3622]

great vid!!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks!

[@Rockkickers]

Are you adding anymore of these back to the basics?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yes! I have a couple filmed that are in the editing process now

[@bassman7496]

Great review I’m debating getting the SNS kettle or Weber performer premium! Can you use the vortex and Weber heat controller on the SNS? Also do you think the SNS is better for low and slow compared to the Weber, basically set it and forget it?

[@bobapple3866]

Hello, not sure what a vortex heat controller is, may be a fan attachment that allows more airflow, meaning more heat. Usually, you adjust the temperature via the vents as he mentions. There are temp probes that work well which allow you to understand the temperatures. I have had a Weber kettle for years, works well. It is possible to purchase one of those spinning grills for a Weber, I also have a couple of charcoal baskets and a hinged grill, I think I would like the spinner deal he has. The SNS would be a fine choice. Happy barbecuing (indirect) and grilling (direct heat).

[@apondo100]

Wow, I wish I watched this before starting my charcoal bbq'ing journey.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

What about this video did you find useful?

[@gusbarnesiii8210]

Best way to handle a hot grill is keep grilling 🔥

[@Shaneroozy]

Very informative but I don't agree with lighting coals over the cooking grate. Remove the cooking grate and light the coals...on the coal grate.

[@saidimbouh1922]

Love that T-shirt

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks!

[@robmoen4609]

No poleon?

[@oshanehall3470]

I just learned the spin

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

💪🏻

[@FindNewIndieMusic]

I'm too scared of those lightweight grills being too easy to tip over. I also prefer the cast iron grates on the larger charcoal grills and the adjustable coal levels. I stopped using propane grills because they are too hard to control and change the amount of heat.

[@dickiesantos7272]

17:02 You have good grammar, makes it easy to understand your thoughts. Will you eventually be reviewing competing brands of grills?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I review quite a few grills and smokers already, are you referring to charcoal grills?

[@rfootlover]

Great instructions Bro! I’m getting myself a Weber kettle this week

[@patrickacox]

The hardest thing about my kettle grills are the grates rusting so quick. If I don’t clean them same Day and then bring indoors they will rust in just a few days.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I don’t think I’ve ever had that issue.

[@davidandrews-lq6vy]

Get solid stainless steel grates , the plated grates only last a couple of years.

[@johnmanthey2683]

Still do, still great food.

[@Amiigaf3]

2 mistakes you made: 1st, you don’t want to put the steak on a hot grate when you sear it. SNS would attest to that. 2nd, you added too much seasoning which will start to burn if it contains sugar.

[@rdaoud3474]

hmm it is a hassle to cook sticks on, so shish, we often want to cook meat or chicken on a stick

[@American54]

That’s the only grill I need it does what I need it to do. I can’t see in spending hundreds of of of dollars on a fancy grill just to keep up with the jones. I can drink beer sitting beside a Weber just as good a fancy grill that cost hundreds more I’m not a rich person.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Nothing wrong with that. I’ve had a kettle through my entire journey