Charcoal BBQs are becoming increasingly popular in gardens and patios, offering a traditional grilling experience that many find unmatched by gas or electric alternatives.
The rich, smoky flavour imparted by charcoal is a key reason for their growing demand, as more outdoor cooking enthusiasts seek this unique taste. The simplicity and hands-on nature of charcoal grilling also appeal to those who enjoy a more authentic cooking experience.
At Posh, we offer a range of charcoal BBQs in various sizes and styles, from compact models for small patios to larger grills for entertaining. With options to suit different budgets, our charcoal BBQs buying guide will help you find the ideal choice for your needs.
Smoky FlavourCharcoal BBQs are favoured for the distinctive, smoky flavour they bring to food. Unlike gas barbecues, charcoal produces smoke that infuses meat and vegetables with a deep, rich taste.
This wood-fired flavour is something gas grills simply cannot replicate, making charcoal the preferred choice for those seeking an authentic BBQ experience.
Charcoal BBQs are usually more affordable than gas grills, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy outdoor cooking. From basic models to more advanced options, charcoal grills offer excellent value while still delivering great performance and flavour.
With fewer parts and a simple design, charcoal BBQs are easy to use and maintain. There are no gas lines or burners, reducing the chance of issues and lowering maintenance needs.
This simplicity makes them an appealing option for BBQ enthusiasts who enjoy a traditional, hassle-free grilling experience.
Hardwood Lump CharcoalHardwood lump charcoal burns hot and fast, making it perfect for searing steaks and achieving a great char. Its natural composition produces minimal ash, making cleaning up easier, and it adds a subtle wood-smoked flavour when you cook food.
Charcoal briquettes offer a slower, more controlled burn, and are ideal for low and slow cooking like ribs or brisket. Their uniform shape ensures consistent heat, maintaining an even temperature over long cooking sessions.
Using a combination of briquettes and lump charcoal provides versatility. Briquettes offer steady heat for slow cooking, while lump charcoal adds high temperatures and smoky flavour for searing.
Hardwood charcoal delivers intense heat and a distinct wood-smoked flavour, making it a versatile option for various grilling styles. It lights quickly, burns efficiently, and enhances the taste of both fast and slow-cooked dishes.
Kettle GrillsKettle grills have a round design with a lid, air vents, and an ash collector, offering versatility for direct grilling, smoking, and high-heat cooking. With a cooking space ranging from 363 to 508 square inches, they provide enough space for small to medium gatherings.
Barrel grills feature a larger, drum-like shape, often equipped with built-in thermometers for better control. They are ideal for indirect cooking and smoking larger cuts of meat. With cooking areas of over 400 square inches, these grills are perfect for larger gatherings.
Ceramic grills, or Kamado grills, have thick ceramic walls for excellent heat retention and temperature control. They are ideal for high-heat grilling, smoking, and use during winter.
Portable charcoal grills are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for camping, picnics, or smaller outdoor spaces. Popular options from Weber and Kamado provide convenience and quality in a compact size.
Hibachi cooking grills are small, but cast iron grills are perfect for cooking smaller portions. Known for their portability and simplicity, they are ideal for quick meals or grilling on the go, offering durability and efficient heat retention.
Cooking CapacitySmall BBQs are ideal for 2-4 people and are well-suited to patios or balconies, while medium BBQs, serving 4-8 people, are great for family meals. Large BBQs are perfect for entertaining larger groups or for long, slow-cooking sessions.
Ensure the charcoal grill size and cooking area match the number of people you plan to cook for.
The durability of a BBQ is largely dependent on the materials used. Cast iron and stainless steel are excellent options for weather resistance and long-lasting performance.
For grill grates, stainless steel is easy to clean, cast iron offers great heat retention, and coated aluminium provides a more affordable option.
Precise temperature control is essential for successful grilling. Adjustable air vents allow for better airflow control, while ceramic and insulated grills retain heat more effectively, particularly in colder weather, ensuring consistent cooking results.
Removable ashtrays make cleaning after grilling much simpler, saving time and effort. Stainless steel grates are easier to clean, whereas cast iron grates offer superior heat retention but require more maintenance to prevent rust.
If you need to move your BBQ regularly, portable charcoal grills are ideal for camping, picnics, or small outdoor spaces. For a permanent setup, built-in grills are perfect for outdoor kitchens and long-term use.
When it comes to choosing the perfect charcoal BBQ, Posh offers an unbeatable combination of quality, service, and value. Here’s why we’re the top choice for your outdoor cooking needs:
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