Buy charcoal barbecues and charcoal BBQs

Buy a charcoal barbecue or charcoal BBQ

Do you want to buy a charcoal barbecue for a meal in the garden, a camping trip or a picnic? At Discountershop, you can find charcoal BBQs in different sizes, including compact disposable barbecues and models intended for outdoor use. Before ordering, compare the cooking area, dimensions, weight and number of people you want to cook for. Also consider the required fuel and accessories. This will help you choose a charcoal BBQ that matches the available space and your planned grilling occasion.

Which charcoal barbecue suits your needs?

A charcoal BBQ requires more preparation than an electric or gas-powered model, but it gives you direct control over the placement of the coals. You can create a hot zone for direct grilling and keep a cooler section available for ingredients that need less intense heat. The right model depends on where you will use it and how much food you want to prepare at once.

When comparing charcoal barbecues, consider:

• the size and shape of the cooking grate;

• the number of people you usually cook for;

• the clearance required for safe use;

• the weight if you intend to transport the BBQ;

• the presence of handles, air vents or an ash collector;

• the included components and compatible fuel.

Would you like to compare other types of barbecues? View the complete parent category first. If you need a compact model that can be positioned near the dining area, you can also browse the available tabletop barbecues. Always follow the placement and safety instructions supplied with your chosen product.

Charcoal or briquettes for your BBQ?

Charcoal generally reaches a high temperature relatively quickly and responds promptly to adjustments in airflow. It is therefore a useful option for shorter grilling sessions or directly cooking smaller ingredients.

Briquettes usually require more time to heat up, but they often provide consistent heat for longer. They can be useful when you want to cook several batches of food. Always check which fuel is compatible with your barbecue. The amount required depends on the BBQ size, cooking time, weather conditions and desired temperature.

Lighting a charcoal BBQ safely

A chimney starter helps heat charcoal or briquettes together before you spread them across the barbecue. Position suitable firelighters beneath the starter and ignite them with a long lighter. Keep your hands, clothing and face away from the flame.

Never use petrol, methylated spirits or another liquid that is not specifically intended for lighting a barbecue. Start grilling only when the tall flames have disappeared and the coals are glowing properly. With many types of charcoal and briquettes, a light layer of ash will then be visible. The exact heating time varies according to the fuel, quantity, starter and weather conditions.

Useful BBQ tools for grilling

Suitable barbecue cooking utensils allow you to turn and remove food without placing your hands unnecessarily close to the heat. Useful tools include tongs, a spatula or a barbecue fork with a handle that provides sufficient distance from the coals. A barbecue tool set is practical when you need several utensils during the same grilling session.

When handling food:

• avoid using the same unwashed utensils for raw meat and cooked food;

• place grilled ingredients on a clean plate;

• keep handles away from flames and hot surfaces;

• check whether meat has reached the required safe internal temperature;

• clean and dry all BBQ tools after use.

Cleaning and storing a charcoal barbecue

Proper barbecue cleaning begins after the BBQ has cooled in accordance with the product instructions. Remove the ash and loose food residue before cleaning the cooking grate with a suitable barbecue brush. Inspect the brush for wear, damage or loose parts before using it.

For grease or cooked-on residue, you can apply an appropriate barbecue cleaner. Read the label and confirm that the product is suitable for the grate material. Rinse food-contact surfaces when required by the cleaner’s instructions. Store the barbecue only after every component is clean, cool and completely dry.

Supplies for another type of BBQ

Do you also use a gas BBQ in addition to a charcoal barbecue? View the available gas supplies and gas bottles separately. Before use, check that the connector, pressure regulator, hose and gas bottle are compatible with the appliance. Never connect gas products to a charcoal barbecue that was not designed for them.

Ordering a charcoal barbecue online

Before ordering, check the dimensions, package contents and required fuel. Also consider whether you need lighting products, grilling utensils or cleaning supplies. A small charcoal barbecue may be sufficient for two people, while a larger cooking grate lets you prepare several portions at the same time.

During use, position the BBQ on a level surface, out of reach of children and pets and away from flammable materials. Never use a charcoal barbecue or disposable BBQ inside a home, tent, caravan, garage or any other enclosed space.

Watch BBQ tips on our YouTube channel

Would you like to view product information, usage tips or practical examples? Visit the Discountershop YouTube channel. The videos can help you use relevant products when preparing for your next BBQ occasion.

Frequently asked questions about charcoal barbecues

Which is better for a charcoal BBQ: charcoal or briquettes?

Charcoal generally heats up faster and works well for short sessions of direct grilling. Briquettes usually burn for longer and provide more consistent heat. The better option depends on the type of barbecue, desired temperature and planned cooking time.

How do you light a charcoal barbecue?

Place charcoal or briquettes in a suitable chimney starter and use firelighters according to their packaging. Light them with a long lighter. Wait until the fuel is glowing properly, then carefully distribute the coals across the barbecue.

When is the charcoal ready for cooking?

Do not begin grilling over tall flames. For many applications, the charcoal is ready when the coals are glowing and covered by a light grey layer of ash. The required time depends on the quantity of charcoal, weather conditions and lighting method.

How much charcoal do I need for my BBQ?

There is no single amount that works for every charcoal barbecue. Consider the cooking area, grilling time and desired temperature. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and add fuel gradually when needed instead of immediately overfilling the BBQ.