The Prep Mistake You're Making With Your Charcoal Grill

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Grilling and Smoking

You're Likely Making This Prep Mistake With Your Charcoal Grill By Allison Beussink Nov. 2, 2025 12:20 pm EST

Although grilling may be one of the simplest forms of cooking , it requires a little bit of preparation, patience, and observation. An overlooked part of charcoal grilling is making sure the charcoal is properly ready to cook over. Most grilling newbies start grilling when the charcoal briquettes are partially black, partially gray, and smoke is funneling out of the grill. However, these are classic signs that the grill needs more time.

"If the charcoal is not prepared correctly, it doesn't matter how well-seasoned your food is — you will taste a harsh, bitter, raw charcoal flavor that will overpower the authentic, delicious grilled tastes