Using a Chimney Starter With your Charcoal is a Smart Choice

A charcoal chimney is a great tool for starting your charcoal. They are easy to ignite and they allow you to arrange the charcoal properly.

It is really one of those devices that is so much better (than the old method of using lighter fluid) that you wonder why it took you so long to find out this is a better idea.

A  chimney starter is a simple device. It is nothing more than a metal cylinder with a grate at the bottom and holes in the sides.

The chimney works by using air from the bottom and side holes to create a chimney “effect” channeling air over the coals causing them to light.

It also has handles that allow you to hold it when it’s hot. Don’t try to handle it without cooking gloves or mitts when the coals are lit. If you do, you’re asking for a burn.

To use, fill the cylinder with charcoal or briquettes and then stuff about a sheet and a half of newspaper in the bottom. Place the chimney on the smoker or grill grate and light. Remember that it gets very hot so don’t place it on concrete, asphalt, or grass (unless you don’t care about your grass).

We used to advocate using balled up newspaper as starter for the chimney but we now a combination chimney and gas starter (see image on right).

By all means don’t use petroleum solvents because the solvents leave an aftertaste on the food. Paraffin starter cubes also work well as starters.

Return from Charcoal Chimney Starter page to the Barbeque Accessories page.