Quote:
Originally Posted by bomber317
A few issues, mostly user error.
The Chimney was too small for the 22.5 inch round grill. The amount of charcoal in it only covered 1/4 of the grill. I needed a lot more to get the BBQ hot enough to sear some steaks.
The first time, only half the chimney got lighted from the newspaper. I waited 10 mins before I realized this.
Stuck more newspaper in, lighted it again, this time all of the coals got started. I walked away and came back 10 mins later. Apparently that was too long as the metal on my chimney was starting to peel. I dumped the coals into the BBQ and realized.
1) not enough coals
2) the half that did get lighted the first time, were used up now and had very little heat to give.
3) my !@#$%! chimney starter is ruined after 1 use!
4) I had to sear my steaks on a fry pan. 
5) even worse, I had to cook it in the oven afterwards to get it to medium-rare
So next week, being stubborn, I'm going to try and start the coals on the BBQ itself. Since I now refuse to get a new chimney starter. |
I don't know what kind of chimney you have, but if its the same as what I'm talking about you should be able to use it again? I've had one of mine for about 6-7 years now. I had a much more expensive and cooler looking one, but that burned through after just a couple of years of use. I really don't take proper care of them or anything, just use them and hang them where they're largely exposed to the elements
The other thing to consider is that a chimney full of coals should be enough to spread out and cook over (depending on how large your surface is I guess). You can always add a handful of charcoal on top of the spread out coals and make sure that you have enough heat/time in that sense as well.
Give it another shot! Charcoal is a little more work, but totally worth it!