Charcoal and fire

Most people start with charcoal. After all you can pick up a serviceable BBQ from the supermarket for about £10 and a lot of fun using it.

Cheap models though are usually made from mild steel which has been painted. Many look good in the shop but soon burn out with heavy use. They can also be flimsy to use especially if the legs are poorly fitted.

If you really want to be flash the Rodeo model on the left will certainly impress your guests but it isn’t the most expensive available. That honour goes to the Kanado.

Wilf’s tip

On cheap BBQs line the bottom with foil to reflect the heat and stop the base burning out

This beauty is covered in ceramic tiles which makes it cool to touch. Obviously it is meant to be kept outside where it will last a lifetime. It can be yours for £1,599.

Many people like charcoal - it kind of satisfies our urge to light fires. It does take a while to get charcoal going though (20 - 40 minutes). You know when it is ready because the coals are covered in grey ash and there are no flames visible.

If you are planning to cook for a long time you will need to top up the charcoal. Adding charcoal causes a drop in heat. Be warned - if you try to add too much charcoal to start with it doesn’t burn longer - just hotter!


	We now live in Spain where BBQueing is a daily event in Summer. There are lots of places where you can buy the rodeo style BBQs. We’ve even seen houses that have them built into the wall on the opposite side to the fireplace so they share the chimney.