Portable Charcoal BBQs: What can I cook on them?

Nothing beats the smoky flavour of food cooked on a charcoal BBQ. Portable charcoal BBQs are an excellent choice for those who love to travel, camp, or just enjoy a day at the park. But what can you cook for them? In this blog post, we'll explore the basics of cooking with portable charcoal BBQs and provide some delicious ideas for your next outdoor meal.

Basic Principles of Cooking with Charcoal BBQs

When choosing charcoal, look for high-quality options that don't contain chemicals or additives. It's essential to prepare the BBQ properly by cleaning it and oiling the grates to prevent food from sticking. Lighting the charcoal can be done using a chimney starter or a charcoal starter wand. 

  

Foods You Can Cook on a Portable Charcoal BBQ

Meats are a classic choice for charcoal BBQs, and you can cook almost any type of meat on them. Beef, pork, poultry, and fish are all excellent options. To ensure that your meat is cooked evenly, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.

Vegetables are also a great choice for charcoal BBQs. Corn on the cob, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant can all be cooked to perfection over charcoal. BBQing vegetables bring out their natural sweetness and add a smoky flavour that's hard to resist.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also cook other foods on your portable charcoal BBQ. Pizza is a fun option, and you can even make your own dough and toppings. Fruits such as pineapple, peaches, and bananas can also be grilled for a unique twist on dessert.

Tips for Cooking on a Portable Charcoal BBQ

To get the best results from your charcoal BBQ, follow these tips:

1. Marinate meat for at least an hour before cooking to add flavour and tenderness.

2. Season your food generously with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs and spices.

3. Timing is essential, so use a timer or watch to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection.

4. Place food on the grill based on its thickness and cooking time.

5. Monitor the temperature of the grill using a thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking your food.

6. Allow your meat to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to distribute evenly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a portable charcoal BBQ can be a versatile and delicious way to cook outdoors. With the right preparation, you can cook almost any type of food on them. From meats to vegetables and even desserts, there are endless possibilities to explore. So why not try something new and fire up your portable charcoal BBQ at your next outdoor gathering?

By: Michael Wilkie