Briquettes

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Briquette is created by compressing a lump of charcoal. BBQ enthusiasts dislike the artificial process of manufacturing briquettes, and the additives, such as petroleum solvents, added to improve ignition. The advantage of briquettes are, they last longer, and maintain a more consistent temperature. They are sometimes referred to, and come in the form of, 'Instant lighting charcoal.

One of the most convenient of all the charcoal options. The sum total that's required is to simply place the bag on the barbecue, and then light the brown paper bag with a match. In our experience two bags seems to speed up the process of the charcoal lighting up. Whilst one bag has on occasion taken up to one hour to become fully lit, two bags has taken under thirty minutes to be ready. Pouring a little cooking fat on unlit coals can speed up the process when cooking with one bag.

However, most of the manufacturers advise against using any additional lighting aid. If your cooking for one sitting, one bag will, on average, cook for three to four at a maximum. Instant lighting charcoal is specially created and impregnated with various substances to make lighting easier. For purists, this detracts from it's appeal. Manufacturers usually not to empty the bag out, and not to use any lighter fluid or flammable liquids. After about ten minutes they then recommend you spread the coals out evenly, once all the coals are *hopefully lit.