Useful Tips For Cooking Steak Over Charcoal In 2023

When it comes to cooking steak over charcoal, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. As a self-proclaimed grill master, I know that there are three important features to look for in every steak:

First, let’s talk about thickness. A good steak should be around 1-inch thick. Thicker steaks tend to be more forgiving when it comes to cooking over charcoal. They take longer to cook, which means you have a little more wiggle room when it comes to getting the perfect internal temperature.

You want to look for a steak with a good amount of marbling. Marbling refers to the white streaks of fat throughout the meat. This fat melts as the steak cooks, adding flavor and juiciness to the meat. A steak with little marbling can turn out dry and tough when cooked over charcoal.

The USDA Grades Beef based on its quality and level of marbling. The highest grades are Prime and Choice. Prime beef is the most expensive and has the most marbling, while Choice is a more affordable option that still has a good amount of marbling.

In summary, when choosing a steak to cook over charcoal, look for a 1-inch thick cut with good marbling and a high grade like Prime or Choice. This will ensure a juicy and flavorful steak that will impress your guests at your next BBQ.

Every cut can be grilled on a charcoal. However, if you are unfamiliar with different types of cuts, here is a recommended chart which will explain the different types of cuts along with recommended cooking methods. But in my opinion, charcoal is the recommended type of any type of cut of steak.

Before we get started, let’s talk about the tools and ingredients you’ll need to cook the perfect steak over charcoal.

First and foremost, you’ll need a charcoal grill. While you can certainly cook a steak over gas, there’s nothing quite like the flavor and experience of cooking over charcoal. Many people prefer Gas Grill over Charcoal Grill but in my humble opinion when it comes to cooking steak, I prefer charcoal to get that scrumptious and smoky flavor.

Of course, you can’t cook over charcoal without…charcoal! Look for high-quality charcoal that is made from natural materials and doesn’t contain any additives or chemicals. I personally prefer lump charcoal, as it tends to burn hotter and cleaner than briquettes.

A chimney starter is an essential tool for getting your charcoal lit quickly and easily. Simply fill the chimney with charcoal, light a piece of newspaper underneath, and wait for the coals to heat up. No lighter fluid required!

You’ll need a few basic grilling tools to get the job done, including a pair of long-handled tongs, a spatula, and a meat thermometer. I also like to use a basting brush to apply any sauces or marinades to the steak as it cooks.

Last but certainly not least, you’ll need a good-quality steak! Look for cuts like ribeye, strip, or filet mignon that are well-marbled and at least 1 inch thick. Don’t skimp on the quality here – a great steak is worth the investment. Follow the guidelines for grilling the perfect steak (any cut would do).

When it comes to cooking a perfect steak on a charcoal grill, there are a few tips and tricks that I have learned over the years. Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these tips will help you achieve a mouth-watering steak that is cooked to perfection.

First, make sure that your charcoal grill is properly heated before placing your steaks on the grill. This will ensure that your steaks are cooked evenly and have a nice sear on the outside. To do this, light your charcoal and let it burn until it is covered with a layer of white ash. This will take about 20-30 minutes.

Next, season your steaks with salt and pepper just before placing them on the grill. This will help to enhance the flavor of the steak and create a nice crust on the outside. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your perfect flavor combination.

Creating separate cooking zones (direct and indirect) when cooking steak over charcoal allows for greater control over the cooking process and helps to ensure that the steak is cooked evenly and to the desired level of doneness. By creating two zones on the grill, one for direct heat and one for indirect heat, you can sear the steak on the hot side to create a flavorful crust and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking it through without burning or overcooking it.

When placing your steaks on the grill, make sure to position them over the hottest part of the grill. This will create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s important to avoid moving your steaks around too much while they are cooking, as this can cause them to cook unevenly.

Finally, use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steaks are cooked to your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature of a medium-rare steak should be around 130-135°F, while a medium steak should be around 135-145°F. Remember to let your steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing into them, as this will help to retain their juices and keep them tender.

By following these tips, cooking steak over charcoal grill that will not only impress your family and friends but steak itself will you blow you away. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite cut of steak, and get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering meal!

As I was learning to cook steak over charcoal, I had a lot of questions. Here are some of the most common ones I came across: