Is there anything better on a balmy summer evening than savoring steaks and veggie skewers still sizzling from the grill? We don’t think so either. However, stepping up as grill master can be daunting for even the most seasoned home cook. That’s why we recommend curating a workhorse group of grill tools. From tongs long enough to avoid burnt fingertips to spatulas that will keep delicate proteins like fish intact, these accessories are specifically designed to make this intense job more manageable and efficient—so you can spend more time mingling with your guests and less time sweating over the flame.

In an effort to find the best grill tools, we carefully vetted a variety of sets and individual accessories to assemble a list of durable yet easy-to-maneuver products so home cooks can feel more confident in front of the barbecue. We also spoke with the chef and host of Yahoo!’s “Grill Next Door” Megan Mitchell to get her expert intel on what to look for when shopping for the best grilling tools. Read on for the best grill tools that are professional-approved favorites. 

The Best Grill Tools: Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Everdure Premium Tool Kit
• Best Value: Cuisinart Deluxe Grill Set
• Best Grill Spatula: OXO Good Grips Grilling Turner
• Best Grill Tongs: Weber Precision Grill Tongs
• Best Grill Brush: GrillHogs Silicone Sauce Basting Brush
• Best Grill Basket: Cuisinart Simply Grilling Nonstick Grill Basket

Best Overall: Everdure Premium BBQ Tools

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Material: Brushed stainless steel | Dishwasher-safe: No | Handle Material: Rubber

Why we chose it: This streamlined set comes with three of the most essential grill tools, all of which boast unique design features like serrated edges, stay-cool grips, and looped handles for maximum efficiency and functionality at the grill. 

Every grillmaster needs a reliable set of tools that are convenient, durable, and easy to use. Featuring a set of tongs, a slotted spatula, and a meat fork, each piece in this set is made from brushed stainless steel, which is meant to resist corrosion and retain shine after repeated use in high heat. The stay-cool handles have a non-slip grip, so home cooks can feel comfortable when flipping greasy burgers or juicy chicken dripping with marinade. The tongs and spatula feature serrated edges, which is helpful when scraping off charred bits of food and offer more precision and control when grabbing slippery pieces of shrimp or vegetables. We love that this set features a sturdy meat fork that makes picking up large cuts like brisket, pork butt, or whole chickens easier and safer. The slotted spatula is designed to flip burgers easily while allowing juices to run through, so nothing slips or slides around on the surface. 

Unlike some extra-large grill tools, this set sits at just the right size. The handles are long enough to keep your hands safe from the heat, but not so long as to make them difficult to control. The non-slip handles feature a textured grip which makes them feel comfortable and secure. The looped handles mean you can hang them when not in use, and the locking tongs make for easier, more compact storage.

Best Value: Cuisinart Deluxe Grill Set

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Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher-safe: No | Handle Material: Stainless steel

Why we chose it: This all-inclusive set from a reliable cookware brand comes with all the essentials at an incredibly affordable price. 

If you’re looking to replace all your grilling tools with one comprehensive set, this kit from Cuisinart is our top choice. The 20-piece set of durable stainless steel tools comes with a spatula, digital temperature fork, basting brush, tongs, five skewers, eight corn holders, and a cleaning brush with a replaceable head, plus a convenient carrying case. That means you’re equipped to flip burgers, skewer shrimp, baste chicken, and easily scrub your grill afterward all at an easy-to-afford price. We particularly love that the convenient carrying case makes storage easy and streamlined. Looped handles mean you can hang the spatula, tongs, and brush from the side of the grill, so they’re easy to grab when needed and easy to put down when you need a break (or a sip of cold beer).

In addition to a standard spatula and tongs, this set also comes with a digital meat fork that displays actual and desired temperatures, along with an alarm that signals when food is done to prevent overcooking. Better yet, the digital meat fork features a built-in LED light for easy nighttime cooking. Overall, this 20-piece set is an easy way to stock your barbecue with every essential item for a reasonable price. Keep in mind that these tools should be hand-washed for best results.

Best Grill Spatula: OXO Good Grips Grilling Turner

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Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Handle Material: Silicone

Why we chose it: This heavy-duty spatula features a non-slip grip and a thoughtfully-designed bend for added comfort, leverage, and control.

This ergonomic spatula is specifically designed to make flipping burgers safe and effective. Unlike regular spatulas meant for stovetop cooking, the more dramatically bent head of this grill turner sits at the optimal angle to flip heavy foods without putting any extra strain on your wrist. Made from durable stainless steel, it can easily handle high heat, and the extra-long handle keeps fingers and wrists away from the flame for a more comfortable grilling experience. The non-slip grip stays secure in your hand, even when greasy or wet. We love that it’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning, and the looped handle makes for a convenient storage option. The slotted surface lets grease and moisture drip through the cracks so you can easily pick up a burger without it sliding around.  Most of all, we love the width of this spatula—it’s narrow enough to maneuver around a crowded grill and wide enough to flip juicy burgers or thick portobello caps.

Best Grill Tongs: Weber Precision Grill Tongs

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Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Handle Material: Silicone

Why we chose it: A flat front edge makes it easy to grab even the most caked-on foods, and the long handle with a non-slip grip adds comfort and safety.

The best grill accessories should be heavy-duty, durable, sturdy, and comfortable to use. These Weber tongs are strong and powerful, so you can easily pick up a rack of ribs, a shoulder of pork, or a whole chicken with one hand. They’re not just for large cuts—the flat tip makes grasping delicate foods like sliced zucchini or sliced onions easy too.

These stainless steel tongs feature a non-slip grip, which means they’re easy to hold even when greasy or wet. The looped handle means you can hang them from the side of the grill when not in use, which is particularly useful if you’re working with a portable grill and don’t have a side table to rest your tools on. At 18 inches long, they’re considerably longer than normal tongs, so you don’t have to worry about burning your hands. However, keep in mind that they can be on the heavy side. They’re also not as flexible as normal kitchen tongs, so extended use can be fatiguing for small hands. These durable tongs are dishwasher-safe, and their hands-free lock allows them to stay compact and for easier storage.

Best Grill Brush: GrillHogs Silicone Sauce Basting Brush

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Material: Silicone head, stainless steel body | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Handle Material: Stainless steel

Why we chose it: This set comes with one small and one large grill brush, both of which feature stainless steel bodies and silicone tips, making them completely heat-safe.

If you’re looking for an easy way to keep meat moist on the grill, a grill brush is an easy way to do it. Unlike a traditional baster, grill brushes offer more precision—the bristles collect sauce and make sure it gets in every crevice—so they’re perfect for expertly basting racks of ribs or stacks of skewers. Like any grilling tool, grill brushes should withstand high heat, so we love that this set is made from durable stainless steel and BPA-free silicone. The 2-piece set features one 12-inch brush and one 7.5-inch brush. That way, you can use the longer brush to keep your fingers safe when flames are extra hot and use the shorter brush for more precise tasks over lower temperatures. 

The durable handles are heavy-duty yet lightweight, making them easy to maneuver around a hot grill. Both brushes are dishwasher-safe and rust-resistant. Be mindful that the handles don’t have a non-slip grip, so they could get slick when wet or greasy.

Best Grill Basket: Cuisinart Simply Grilling Nonstick Grill Basket

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Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher-safe: No | Handle Material: Heat-resistant rubber

Why we chose it: This nonstick grill basket features different lock settings, which means it can safely house different-sized foods that would otherwise be tricky to grill—use it for fish, shrimp, vegetables, and more.

If you’re a fan of grilled seafood, a grill basket is a must-have. Simply fill the basket with delicate items like shrimp or salmon and lock the mechanism at the appropriate height. The different locking options mean you can accommodate foods of different sizes, so each piece is held together and doesn’t move around. The nonstick wires will keep the food safely in place so nothing falls through the cracks and into the flame. This basket is perfect for kebabs because you can turn the entire thing at once, eliminating the need to rotate each piece individually. The large cooking surface can accommodate ample portions of food in a single layer, so items grill evenly and uniformly.

Though the nonstick surface means foods easily slide off, it also means that this basket is not dishwasher-safe. Before purchasing, keep in mind that it should be washed by hand, which can be tricky due to the size of the cooking surface and the length of the handle. It’s also important to keep in mind that food will not sit directly on the grill grates, which means it will be difficult to achieve uniform grill marks. The handle is made of heat-resistant rubber, so be mindful that only the basket itself should sit directly over an open flame.

How We Chose These Products

In order to find the best grilling tools, we combined our professional culinary knowledge with competitive research and industry insights to find products that are functional, durable, and reliable. We assessed each product’s ability to withstand high heat, and took note of how easy each item is to clean and care for. We relied on our extensive knowledge of cookware brands to determine the quality of each product, and assessed price and any special features to determine overall value. Lastly, we spoke with Megan Mitchell, an L.A.-based chef and host of Grilling for Beginners, a workshop series with Magnolia Network that focuses on the fundamentals of grilling. She has also been featured on Yahoo!’s Grill Next Door, as well as various cooking shows with Tastemade, Thrive Market, ABC, and Food Network Kitchen. Megan gave us her advice on how to shop for grill tools and what factors to look for in a set of tools.

Features to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Grill Tools

Material

When grilling, selecting tools made from materials that can handle high temperatures is important. “With high heat, you can’t use the same tools on a grill as you do in the kitchen,” said Mitchell. “Wood and plastic can burn and melt and there’s definitely more wear and tear that happens to your grilling tools since you’re using them over an open flame,” she added. Therefore, it’s best to opt for tools made of metal. Stainless steel can withstand heat of up to a whopping 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it a great option for grill tools like spatulas and tongs. When it comes to a basting brush, opt for silicone. Silicone can withstand temperatures of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s a great option for basting whole barbecued chickens or racks of ribs.

Durability

Mitchell says quality and durability are the most important factors to consider when shopping for grill tools. “Working with high heat, cheap tools, unfortunately, don’t cut it, which means you’ll have to replace them sooner than you’d hope,” she said. Before selecting a set of tools, make sure to assess the material the tools are made from, what temperature they can withstand, and how you plan to clean and care for them. Grill tools are subjected to all sorts of wear and tear, so selecting heavy-duty tools that are easy to clean is key. Keep in mind that some sets are dishwasher-safe while others must be washed by hand, so be sure to use the proper care in order to maintain their effectiveness. Mitchell says that understanding how to care for your tools is the best way to ensure their durability. “Just like you clean your grill before and after every use, I do the same with grill tools, especially since most tools are stored outside by the grill. A quick wash before using and then washing, drying, and putting them away after each use will extend their life and keep them working properly,” she said.

What’s Included

If you’re looking to replace all of your grill tools in one purchase, a comprehensive set is the best way to go. At the minimum, every set of grill tools should include long tongs for grilling chicken and vegetables, as well as a long, wide spatula for flipping burgers. A meat fork is ideal for flipping large cuts of meat like brisket, and a basting brush is helpful when keeping marinated meats moist throughout the cooking process. Before making a selection, assess what foods you intend on cooking most often, and select the best barbecue accessories based on your specific needs. 

Length of Tools

The length of grill tools is a key factor that sets them apart from other types of kitchen tools. Whether you use a charcoal grill, gas grill, electric grill, or otherwise, grills get very hot, making it easy to burn your fingers, wrists, and forearms. That’s why most grill tools are longer than standard kitchen tools. Long tools help keep your hands safe and away from the flames, but they can also be difficult to control. Before selecting a set of tools, consider how hot your grill gets, and how much control you like to have over your tools. If heat is a major concern, extra-long tools will provide safety and comfort. If you can manage the heat but need more dexterity, opt for a set of medium-length tools instead.

Ask the Experts

Q: What are the essential BBQ tools?

Mitchell says that tongs, a grill brush, and a long spatula are an essential combination of grill tools. These tools can tackle a variety of tasks, and they’re versatile enough to handle grilled pizzas, chicken, vegetables, and everything in between. For added comfort and control, Mitchell recommends stocking up on a few pairs of tongs in varying sizes. That way, you can use an extra-long pair for large flames, and a shorter pair for more delicate tasks over lower temperatures. 

Q: How do I store BBQ tools?

Although grill tools are often left outdoors or in a shed, it’s important to keep them safe from the elements in order to preserve their functionality. Mitchell says “I like to store my tools in airtight containers to protect from dust and water rather than leave them hanging on or near my grill.” If you prefer to keep your grills outside for easy access, look for a designated bin that you can place them in once they’re clean and cooled off. That way, they’ll stay separate from your more delicate kitchen utensils, but will retain their capability for years to come. 

Q: How do I clean rust off BBQ tools?

The best way to clean rust is to prevent it from building up in the first place. Before putting away your grills, always make sure they are completely clean and dry. Avoiding moisture is the best way to avoid rust, so storing them properly is essential to preserving their shelf life.

If you do find rust on your tools, Mitchell recommends making a paste of vinegar and baking soda to scrub off stubborn stains. Use a thick sponge or brush with tough bristles to scrub vigorously. Then wash thoroughly with soap and water and be sure to dry completely.

Our Take

Grilling may seem like a pursuit that’s tough to master, but the right tools make it so much more approachable. The best grill tools are easy to hold, maneuver, and clean, and they make backyard barbecues easy and efficient. For best results, look for a durable set of heavy-duty tools that can handle high heat with ease and comfort, like the Everdure Premium BBQ tools or the Cuisinart’s Deluxe Grill Set.

The post The Best Grill Tools for Better Backyard Barbecues appeared first on Saveur.

Sure, tailgating is synonymous with sports. But for super serious game day cooks, tailgating is a sport all on its own. Whether you’re cooking in a field outside a football stadium, in a parking lot next to a concert venue, or right in your backyard, tailgating requires an outdoor kitchen that can be set up quickly, broken down easily, and is equipped to feed a crowd. The most important part of any tailgate is a grill, which everybody knows is the easiest way to cook outside. However, not all grills are created equally, and some are more suited to staying in one spot rather than traveling to the football field every weekend. That’s where a dedicated tailgating grill comes into play.

In order to find the best tailgate grills, we spoke with grilling extraordinaire Damon Daye, Executive Chef at The Steak Truck. We aimed to find grills that are portable, easy to use, and capable of serving up burgers, hot dogs, and chicken wings that rival those found at your favorite sports bar. These are the best tailgate grills for on-the-go game day eats.

The Best Tailgate Grills: Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Coleman Roadtrip 285 Standup Grill
• Best Value: Char-Broil Portable 240
• Best Charcoal: Solo Stove Grill
• Best Propane: Cuisinart Roll Away Gas Grill
• Best Pellet: Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill
• Best Portable: Everdure CUBE Portable Grill

Best Overall: Coleman Roadtrip 285 Standup Grill

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Dimensions: ‎30.25″D x 19.19″W x 16.13″H | Weight:  47 pounds | Fuel Type: Propane | Cooking Area: 285 square inches | BTUs: 20,000 

Why we chose it: This collapsible grill is incredibly portable, and the large cooking surface can be conveniently turned on and off with the press of a button.

When searching for the best tailgate grill, it’s important to find one that combines portability with functionality and efficiency. All of the most critical criteria come together in this option from Coleman—wheels make it easy to move, propane fuel and button start makes it easy to turn off and on, and collapsible legs make it incredibly convenient. Better yet, the 285 square inches of cooking surface can be totally transformed thanks to the interchangeable cooktops, which means this grill can double as a griddle or stovetop. 

We love that the propane fuel allows for superior temperature control, and the convenient built-in thermometer makes it easy to know what level of heat you’re working with. The instant-start button lets you get the grill up and running without any matches, and the three burners can be individually controlled for a more precise cooking experience.

Best Value: Char-Broil Portable 240

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Dimensions: 16.2”D x 25”W x 13”H | Weight: 21 pounds | Fuel Type: Propane | Cooking Area: 240 square inches | BTUs: 9,500

Why we chose it: This lightweight grill has a large cooking surface that gets super hot, making it an efficient grill that’s an excellent value for the price. 

Some of the best tailgate grills can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean they have to be. We love it when we find a durable grill that’s efficient and functional at an affordable price. Don’t let this lightweight grill fool you—it performs just as well as the heavy-hitters on this list. With 240 square inches of cooking surface, it can reach high temperatures to achieve the dark and crispy grill marks everybody loves.  

This portable gas grill uses propane to heat up, and an external temperature gauge lets you easily read how hot it is inside. An easy-to-use ignition system makes lighting quick and efficient. Sturdy, silicone-capped legs make sure it won’t slip or slide when in use. Since this grill has particularly short legs, you’ll need to set it on a tabletop or countertop to bring it to a comfortable cooking height. However, use caution when setting it on different surfaces—the body of the grill can get hot when in use.

Best Charcoal: Solo Stove Grill

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Dimensions: 22”W x 29”H inches | Weight: 43 pounds | Fuel Type: Charcoal  | Cooking Area: 380 square inches | BTUs: N/A

Why we chose it: Air flows evenly from all sides of this extra-portable grill, which means fires can start quickly and burn evenly with minimal maintenance. 

Solo Stove makes some of the best fire pits you can buy, and now they’ve taken that same efficiency and functionality and applied it to grills. The Solo Stove Grill utilizes strategic air vents to encourage 360-degree air flow, which means fires start up quickly, burn evenly, and last longer. We love how quickly and easily this charcoal grill starts—allowing you to spend more time hanging with friends and less time manipulating coals. 

The grill is sold in a bundle that includes a stand, a set of grill tools, a weather-proof grill protector and a carrying case, as well as briquettes and fire starters, so it’s an incredible value for the price. The stand is conveniently short, which means it’s the perfect height to tend to while sitting. Oftentimes the grill master is forced to stand for hours poking at hot coals, but this grill allows you to flip burgers from a comfortable sitting position. We love that 380 square inches of usable cooktop makes it easy to grill for a crowd. The included carry case makes this grill incredibly portable, so it’s great for bringing to a sporting event or to the beach.

Our expert product testers have used this grill at home for over six months, and say it performs just as well as a permanent, everyday grill in the backyard as it does on-the-go. 

Best Propane: Cuisinart Roll Away Gas Grill

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Dimensions: 27.3″L x 38″W x 23.5″H | Weight: 45 pounds | Fuel Type: Propane | Cooking Area: 240 square inches | BTUs: 15,000 

Why we chose it: This propane grill lights quickly and heats evenly thanks to a twist-to-start ignition, and the whole thing collapses easily to roll away when not in use.

This portable gas grill sits on a sturdy, durable stand that quickly collapses when not in use. The grill sits on wheels, so it can easily roll to and from your tailgate for added convenience. The 240 square inch cooking surface is made of cast iron, so once you turn the ignition, the cooking grates quickly and evenly heat up. The double-walled stainless steel lid helps trap in heat, so this grill can reach super high temperatures quickly and efficiently. Keep in mind that unlike the Coleman Roadtrip 285, this grill only features one burner, so can’t manipulate cooking temperatures and you’ll need to maintain the same cooking temperature throughout.

We love that this grill features two fold-away side tables so you can deploy a little extra space for prepping ingredients when needed.

Best Pellet: Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill

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Dimensions: 20”D x 21”W x 13”H | Weight: 60 pounds | Fuel Type: Pellets | Cooking Area: 176 square inches | BTUs: TK

Why we chose it: Pellet grills provide unmatched flavor and temperature control, and this conveniently designed option is ideal for toting to tailgates.

If you’re looking for that deep, smoky flavor that only a pellet grill can provide, turn to the Traeger Ranger grill. This compact version is designed to be used outdoors and on-the-go, so it’s great for tailgating, camping, or trips to the beach. At just 60 pounds, it’s considerably lighter than any other pellet grill option. The 176 square inches of cooking space features a porcelain-enameled grill top, which is helpful in preventing foods from sticking. 

The compact grill features digital arc control, which means you can precisely monitor and manage your heat distribution, allowing for a more fine-tuned cooking experience. The keep warm function helps hold food at temperature until you’re ready to eat.

Best Portable: Everdure CUBE Portable Grill

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Dimensions: 9”D x 14”W x 17”L | Weight: 15 pounds | Fuel Type: Charcoal  | Cooking Area: 115 square inches | BTUs: N/A

Why we chose it: The lightest on our list, this portable grill comes with carrying handles, a storage tray and cutting board, so you can easily tote an entire tailgate setup all stacked in one. 

This portable charcoal grill is sleek, efficient, and functional. Stacked inside the grill itself is an insulated storage compartment, and the lid doubles as a bamboo prep board. That way you can pack all your essentials, get them prepared and grill them all with one convenient gadget. Strategically-placed handles make it easy to carry in and out of the car, and we love that the lid clamps down when in storage. The base features a built-in heat-resistant shield that means you can safely grill on top of any surface at any time. “Having a portable tailgating grill is very important. You want to be able to set up and break down with as little time spent and limited mess created,” said Daye.

Made of durable steel, this grill has no problem heating up and cooking anything from chicken to burgers to steak. Powered by charcoal for added flavor, the charcoal tray is removable, so you can easily dispose of ashes once they’ve cooled.

How We Chose The Best Tailgate Grills

To find the best tailgating grills available, we spoke to barbecue experts, performed competitive research, and utilized our own industry knowledge. Tailgates can get messy and crowded, so we sought out grills that can conveniently cook up food for a crowd, while being easy to clean and transport. We aimed to find grills that are portable and easy to use, while delivering a high-quality product every time. This piece features grills that our editors have personalized tested at home as well as grills that professional chefs and culinary professionals rave about. For this piece, we spoke to Damon Daye, a professional chef who has years of experience cooking in both fine dining restaurants and outdoor food trucks. He is now the executive chef of renowned New York food truck The Steak Truck.

Features to Keep in Mind When Shopping for a Tailgate Grill

Portability

One of the best things about a tailgate party is that it can happen anywhere, at any time. Just like camping, most tailgate parties take place outside and more often than not, there’s limited access to electricity or running water. That’s why Chef Daye says, “​​It’s important to choose a grill that will fit into your vehicle, is lightweight, and is easy to move, carry, and store.” Some tailgating grills stand on wheels that make them easy to move, while others come with convenient handles and carrying cases. Whether you’re tailgating in a parking lot outside a football stadium or in your driveway, make sure that your grill is easy to pack up and carry when you’re finished with it. In addition to its weight, make sure to consider how quickly your grill cools down after each use. Look for grills that have stay-cool handles or some sort of heat-resistant carrying case so you can safely pack it up when you’re finished. 

BTUs

BTUs, or British Thermal Units, are a fuel efficiency rating given to propane grills. BTUs are the unit of measurement that pertains to your grill’s total heat output and fuel consumption per hour. Therefore, it’s a measurement of how much heat a grill gives off at its maximum output. A higher BTU rating is often associated with a better-performing grill that uses heat more efficiently. 

Cooking Area

Cooking area is a key factor to consider when planning your tailgate party. Because many tailgate grills are more compact than standard outdoor grills, it’s important to consider how much of the total size translates to actual cooking area. Usable cooking space will dictate how much food you can cook at one time, which will also dictate how many guests you can feed. When selecting a grill, consider whether you will need different heat zones. Some grills offer cooking surfaces with controllable heat zones, so you can keep food warm while other foods are starting to cook. 

Fuel Type

Every grilling enthusiast has a preference when it comes to fuel type. Charcoal lovers swear by the smoky flavor, while propane purists love the convenience of an automatic start. When selecting a style of grill for your tailgate, keep portability and ease of cleaning top of mind. If you’re able to transport charcoal to your tailgate party and easily dispose of the ashes afterward, a charcoal grill can be a fantastic option. If you’ll be tailgating somewhere with less resources, then a propane grill is considerably more convenient. 

Ease of Cleaning

Having a grill that is easy to clean is essential. Tailgates usually occur in places where utilities are limited, so there isn’t usually a sink, hose, or other water source nearby. Whatever grill you use, make sure it’s easy to scrape clean with a brush or wipe clean with a damp cloth. Also, be mindful of your grill’s footprint. If you opt for a charcoal or pellet style grill, make sure you have a solution in mind for disposing of ash and burnt pellets.

Ask the Experts

Q: Can I set up a grill in a truck bed? 

Chef Daye says that in the interest of safety, it’s best to avoid using a grill inside a truck bed. In fact, he advises that grilling should take place at a safe distance from any major structures like a car or building. “To lessen the danger of accidental fires, it’s best to use your grill at least 10 to 15 feet from any building, door, window or car,” said Daye. 

Q: How do I safely grill while tailgating?

It’s easy to grill safely while tailgating as long as you adhere to a few simple rules. To start, Daye says to always make sure you’re cooking in an open, unconfined space, cook on a clean grill to avoid flare-ups, and make sure any kids or pets are kept safely away from the grill. He advises that cooks should always keep an eye on their grill when it’s in use, and douse coals or pellets once you’re done with the grill so the fire doesn’t linger. Lastly, Daye says to always allow your grill to cool completely before packing it away. 

Q: What do I do with charcoal after tailgating?

Before starting your charcoal grill, always make sure you have a solution for safely disposing of the used charcoal. Daye says, “Once your used charcoal and ash are completely cold, make sure to safely throw it away. I recommend wrapping it completely in aluminum foil before tossing it into a non-combustible outdoor trash receptacle.”

Final Take

Overall, the best tailgate grills should be convenient, portable, and efficient. They should be able to feed a crowd even if you’re grilling in a field or parking lot with limited resources. Most of all, they should be easy to set up, take down, and clean. We love the Coleman Roadtrip 285 Standup Grill because it easily meets all of our most important criteria, all while featuring additional conveniences like collapsible legs, foldable side tables, and a built-in temperature gauge. 

The post The Best Tailgate Grills for Better Game Day Eats appeared first on Saveur.

Though there’s some debate about what type of grill is best, most grillmasters agree that barbecuing over charcoal undoubtedly means more flavor. Charcoal is the key to tastier barbecue, but not all types are created equally. Have you ever stopped to wonder what your charcoal was made from? There are two main types—lump and briquettes—and each has its benefits. Charcoal is made by burning wood with little-to-no air, and lump charcoal refers to pure, natural hunks of wood that are a result of that process. Alternatively, briquettes are a more commonly-found, more affordable option. These commercially manufactured pieces come in uniform sizes, but the bags often contain fillers and wood by-products, which means they create additional ash and can often smell like chemicals. 

Although briquettes are typically cheaper and more convenient, lump charcoal is a tastier and cleaner way to cook. Most pitmasters agree that lump charcoal is a gamechanger on the grill—it burns hotter and longer, making for a fiery barbecue that’s free of additives and chemicals. With so many options to choose from, we rounded up the best lump charcoal to add to your shopping list this summer. Read on for our favorites.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Jealous Devil Lump Charcoal
• Best Value: Rockwood Hardwood All Natural Lump Charcoal
• Best for Smoking: The Good Charcoal Company
• Best for Flavor: Fogo Super Premium Lump Charcoal
• Best Long Lasting: Kamado Joe Big Block XL Lump Charcoal

Best Overall: Jealous Devil Lump Charcoal

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Brand: Jealous Devil | Wood Type: South American Hardwood | Weight: 35 pounds 

Why we chose it: This all-natural lump charcoal imparts a mild flavor and can accommodate super-high temperatures. 

This high-quality lump charcoal is made from hand-picked and hand-cut South American hardwood. The pure wood is made without fillers or scrap, so it’s 100% natural and specially carbonized to remove impurities. The extra-large chunks can accommodate high temperatures of up to 1,170 degrees Fahrenheit, and the clean construction means no sparks, flare-ups, excessive ash, or heavy smoke.

Most charcoal is stored outside, so we love that this charcoal is contained in a water-resistant and resealable bag to preserve freshness. The ultra-dense wood allows for a superior burn, and the large chunks can burn for over four hours on the grill and over 20 hours in smokers. It has a mild flavor, so if you’re looking for something bolder, be sure to blend it with your favorite flavorful wood.

Best Value: Rockwood Hardwood All Natural Lump Charcoal

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Brand: Rockwood | Wood Type: Oak, Hickory, Maple, and Pecan | Weight: 60 pounds

Why we chose it: The bold wood flavor and affordable price per bag make this lump charcoal an incredible value for the price. 

Made from Missouri hardwood oak, hickory, and maple, this lump charcoal is responsibly made from leftover wood that can’t otherwise be made into lumber, so no trees are harvested for the purpose of making charcoal. The ethically-made charcoal is free of chemicals, fillers, and other impurities, which leaves a pure, rich flavor that’s easily imparted to meats, fish, and vegetables. 

This charcoal is specifically designed to light quickly and burn longer. The paper bag is designed with soy-based ink, so the entire thing is completely recyclable, landfill-safe, and won’t produce toxic fumes if burned. The renewable resource creates less ash, which makes for easier clean-up. This 3-pack of high-quality charcoal comes at an affordable price and exceptional value.

Best for Smoking: The Good Charcoal Company

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Brand: The Good Charcoal Company | Wood Type: Acacia | Weight: 15.4 pounds

Why we chose it: Made from dense acacia wood, this charcoal burns hot and long, meaning you don’t need to use as much of it, which is perfect for smoking meats over a long period of time.

The Good Charcoal company’s charcoal is sustainably-sourced from the Namibian bush in Africa to help prevent bush encroachment and preserve open grasslands. Made from dense Acacia wood, this charcoal burns longer and hotter than oak or hickory, so grillmasters can use less of it with each grilling session, therefore lowering their environmental footprint over time. 

This mildly-flavored charcoal can accommodate super high heat. However, its ability to burn longer is what makes it a great choice for smoking. Smoking sessions require a lot of time, so having a charcoal that can burn longer is essential, and the Good Charcoal company stands up to the task. The uniformly-sized chunks help produce a consistent, even heat source.

Best for Flavor: Fogo Super Premium Lump Charcoal

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Brand: Fogo | Wood Type: Inga | Weight: 35 pounds

Why we chose it: The all-natural hardwood Inga wood imparts a smokey flavor, and the thoughtful production process results in pure, clean, and consistent charcoal.

Oak is known for producing a smokey flavor when burned, so this bag of premium hardwood oak is a great way to enhance the bold grilling flavors charcoal users love. It features super-large pieces of wood, which means they can burn for a long time. Ideal for smoking flavorful dishes, these large, oak hunks light quickly and burn long. There’s nothing additional added, so you’re sure to achieve a pure, refined wood flavor. 

This sustainably-sourced wood is first air dried then converted into charcoal in artisanal brick ovens. Master charcoal makers then hand-pick each piece before bagging to classify it as premium, consistent charcoal. A naturally clean, bold flavor is a result of the careful production process.

Best Long Lasting: Kamado Joe Big Block XL Lump Charcoal

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Brand: Kamado Joe | Wood Type: Blended Hardwood | Weight: 20 pounds

Why we chose it: If you’re looking for a lump charcoal that can burn long and be reused multiple times, Kamado Joe Big Block XL is a great choice. 
We love that this charcoal can be reused multiple times, which means you don’t have to buy as many bags, making it a long-lasting option. Made from a blend of hardwoods like Guayacan, Guayaibi, Mistal, and White Quebracho, each bag comes with large, dense chunks of all-natural wood. The pure wood means the charcoal imparts a bold, smokey flavor, and the size of the chunks means it can burn for up to 18 hours. Though this option comes with a lot of large chunks, users have reported that some bags contain small bits as well, which adds dust.

How We Chose These Products

To find the best lump charcoal for home cooks, we performed extensive competitive and market research to understand the leading options in the category. We combined our editors’ culinary expertise with industry insights to determine the qualities that each bag should have. We also considered user reviews to understand the real-world pros and cons consumers should consider. Lastly, we spoke with James Beard-nominated Chef Yia Vang for his insight on the factors to consider before shopping for charcoal. Vang is the co-owner of Union Hmong Kitchen and ambassador to the Good Charcoal Company, and his approach to combining local and cultural food traditions has been featured on CNN’s United Shades of America.

Features to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Lump Charcoal

Sources and Quality

One of the biggest benefits of using lump charcoal compared to briquettes is that it’s made completely from wood, rather than any additives, fillers, or chemicals. In order to reap those benefits, it’s important to research where your lump charcoal comes from and how it’s produced. To burn hot, flavorful, and fume-free charcoal, look for suppliers that use sustainably-sourced, all-natural hardwood. Lower quality producers cut corners by using wood that contains varnish or chemicals, which can add toxins to food and give smoke a chemical after taste.  

Flavor

Everybody knows that grilling with charcoal is more flavorful than grilling with gas, but beginners might not realize that different types of charcoal can impart different flavors. Before selecting a bag, consider whether or not you want to add a smokey, charcoal flavor, or if you simply want to complement and accentuate the flavors of the food you’re cooking. Hardwoods like hickory, oak, and pecan have a more intense flavor, which means they’ll add their own flavor profile to the food you cook. Hickory and oak are specifically known for their smokey flavor, which means they’re great to use on large cuts of meat like brisket or ribs. Alternatively, acacia has a sweeter, more mild flavor, which makes it a great option for grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Before selecting a charcoal, assess what you plan to cook and what flavor profile you’d like to achieve. 

Burning Temperature

Different types of wood burn at different temperatures, so take note of what material you’re using before you light up the grill. When shopping for lump charcoal, consider how hot and fast you plan to cook, and select a type of wood that is suitable for that. If you cook a lot of high-heat meals like steak or stir fry, select a wood that can reach a higher temperature. If you’re planning to smoke a chicken over low, slow heat, look for a wood that can burn for longer periods of time. You’ll also want to make sure to vent your grill or smoker appropriately for the type of wood you plan to use. 

Packaging

Charcoal typically gets stored outdoors, so reliable packaging is a must. Before selecting a lump charcoal, consider how you plan to store it and where. If you’ll be storing your charcoal in a garage, shed, or other outdoor areas, make sure it’s contained in durable, reliable packaging that is resistant to outside elements. Some options are water-resistant while others are UV-protected. Most of all, consider if your lump charcoal comes in a resealable bag to prevent messes and help keep it fresh over time. 

Size

The size of the lumps is directly related to how long the charcoal will burn. It’s important to look for charcoal with large, uniform lumps. Larger chunks of charcoal will burn hotter and longer, and high-quality bags will have mostly large lumps with minimal broken bits or ash. Small bits and excessive dust and ash at the bottom of the bag can be messy and cause sparking.

Ask the Experts

Q: What is lump charcoal best used for?

Lump charcoal lights easily and burns hotter than standard briquettes. Therefore, Chef Vang says that it’s best used for high-heat cooking, such as steaks, stir fries and burgers.  

Q: How do I light lump charcoal?

Thanks to its pure wood construction, high-quality lump charcoal should be easy to light. Vang recommends using a tumbleweed starter to get the fire going. If using a chimney starter, place the tumbleweed starter or a few pieces of crumpled newspaper at the bottom, and pile the charcoal in the starter on top. Light the tumbleweed or newspaper first and let the coals ignite. 

Q: How long does lump charcoal burn?

Different types of lump charcoal will burn faster than others. Depending on the size of the lumps, how much coal you use, and the style of grilling you employ, Vang says lump charcoal will burn for about an hour. 

Q: Do you need a chimney starter to light lump charcoal?

Although not completely necessary, Vang says a chimney starter is an easy way to get your fire going fast and hot. As a result, it’s a great accessory to have for on-demand barbecues.

Our Take

The best lump charcoal should be all-natural, so that it can burn long and hot to impart a pure, clean, smokey flavor. Jealous Devil Lump Charcoal is all-natural with a mild flavor, so it’s the perfect option for home cooks looking for a reliable, high-quality charcoal to have on hand. 

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