The Best Charcoal for Winter Grilling on the Big Green Egg

When it comes to winter grilling on the Big Green Egg, choosing the right type of charcoal is crucial. In colder temperatures, you need a charcoal that can ignite easily, burn hot, and maintain consistent heat over long periods. Living in Toronto, you need to adapt if you want to use your Egg all year round. Just because it snows does not mean you ignore the tasty smoke flavours. Here are some of the best options for winter grilling:

1. Big Green Egg natural oak and hickory lump charcoal

This is a popular choice for Big Green Egg users, especially in cold weather. Made from 100% natural oak and hickory, it burns cleanly and provides a consistent, long-lasting heat, which is essential for maintaining stable temperatures during winter grilling. Its ability to light quickly makes it ideal for cold-weather cooks when you don’t want to spend too much time getting the grill up to temperature.

Buy Big Green Egg natural oak and hickory lump charcoal

2. Rockwood all-natural hardwood lump charcoal

Rockwood’s blend of hickory, oak, and maple is another excellent option for winter grilling. It’s known for its ability to burn hot and long, which is perfect for maintaining steady heat in colder conditions. Additionally, it produces minimal ash, making cleanup easier after a long winter cook. This charcoal is particularly good for low-and-slow cooking sessions that are common in winter BBQs.

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3. Jealous devil chunx XL lump charcoal

For those looking for extra-large chunks that burn hotter and longer, Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal is a great option. The larger pieces provide better airflow in the firebox and help maintain consistent temperatures over extended periods—ideal for slow-cooking meats like brisket or pork shoulder during those chilly Toronto winters.

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4. Fogo super premium lump charcoal

Fogo’s Super Premium Lump Charcoal is another top-tier choice for winter grilling. Known for its large chunks and high heat output, this charcoal provides sustained heat that’s perfect for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking. It’s particularly useful in cold weather because of its ability to maintain consistent temperatures even when the outside air is freezing.

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Why lump charcoal is best for winter grilling

Lump charcoal is generally preferred over briquettes for winter grilling because it burns hotter and more efficiently. In cold weather, you’ll need more heat to counteract the chilly air surrounding your grill. Lump charcoal also lights faster than briquettes, which can be helpful when you’re trying to get your Big Green Egg up to temperature without wasting time outdoors.

Final tips

• Stock up on extra fuel: Cold weather can cause charcoal to burn faster, so make sure you have enough on hand.
• Use larger chunks: Larger pieces of lump charcoal provide better airflow and longer burn times, which are essential during long winter cooks.
• Keep your charcoal dry: Store your charcoal in a dry place to prevent moisture from affecting its performance.

Have you run into your Big Green Egg freezing shut? I have. Check out how I solved that tricky situation.

By choosing the right lump charcoal and following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy delicious BBQ all winter long on your Big Green Egg.