Charcoal, briguettes and the LotusGrill smokeless charcoal

Charcoal and briquettes are two popular fuel options used for grilling and barbecuing. They have some differences in terms of composition, performance, and characteristics. Here's a comparison between charcoal and briquettes:

1. Composition:

   • Charcoal: Charcoal is made from wood that has been heated in the absence of oxygen, a process called pyrolysis. This results in the removal of water, volatile compounds, and impurities, leaving behind pure carbon.
   • Briquettes: Briquettes are manufactured fuel blocks made from a combination of charcoal dust, coal dust, sawdust, or other biomass materials, along with a binder such as starch. These ingredients are compacted and formed into uniform shapes.

2. Burn Time and Temperature:

   • Charcoal: Lump charcoal typically burns hotter and faster than briquettes. It reaches high temperatures quickly, making it suitable for searing and achieving a charred crust on food. However, the burn time of lump charcoal is usually shorter.
   • Briquettes: Briquettes burn at a more consistent and steady pace compared to lump charcoal. They tend to provide a longer burn time and maintain a steady heat, making them suitable for low and slow cooking, such as smoking.

3. Ignition and Heat Control:

   • Charcoal: Lump charcoal is relatively easy to ignite and can reach cooking temperature quickly. However, it may require more attention to control the heat since it burns faster and hotter.
   • Briquettes: Briquettes are generally easier to ignite due to their uniform shape and composition. They also offer better heat control due to their consistent burn rate and ability to maintain a steady temperature over a longer period.

4. Smoke and Flavor:

   • Charcoal: Lump charcoal tends to produce less ash and smoke compared to briquettes. It imparts a distinct smoky flavor to the food, which many people prefer.
   • Briquettes: Briquettes produce more ash and smoke than lump charcoal. The smoke can have a slightly different flavor profile, and some people find that it imparts a milder smoky taste to the food.

5. Availability and Cost:

   • Charcoal: Lump charcoal is often considered the premium option and is typically more expensive than briquettes. It can be found in various sizes and wood types.
   • Briquettes: Briquettes are widely available and tend to be more affordable than lump charcoal. They are also available in different brands and variations.
6. The Lotus Grill Smokeless Charcoal:                   

This high-quality beechwood charcoal has been designed for the Lotus BBQ Grill and is virtually smokeless. 

LotusGrill beech BBQ charcoal boasts an extremely high carbon content and gross calorific value, meaning that it lights especially quickly and burns hotter and for longer than conventional charcoal. LotusGrill beech BBQ charcoal is a 100% natural product, made using local power sources only in Europe’s most modern production facility.

A LotusGrill using the LotusGrill beech BBQ charcoal will take approximately 4 minutes to start grilling...you no longer have to fight to get your BBQ starter and no unnecessary smoke.  As there is a built in fan you are able to control the speed and hotness of your LotusGrill. 

FSC Certified and no tropical deforestation.        

Ultimately, the choice between charcoal and briquettes depends on personal preferences, cooking style, and the specific grilling or smoking requirements. Some people prefer the quick and intense heat of lump charcoal, while others appreciate the longer burn time and consistent heat control provided by briquettes.