After testing countless charcoals, I can confidently say that the journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout options shows how far the market has come. The Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes 16 lb impressed me with its quick 15-minute lighting, thanks to its Sure Fire technology that makes starting your grill effortless. Its natural ingredients and authentic smoky flavor deliver consistent results, perfect for any backyard barbecue.
Compared to lump options like Jealous Devil and Mr. Bar-B-Q, briquettes offer more uniform heat, but often lack the quick ignition that Kingsford provides. The lump charcoals burn hotter and cleaner but tend to be more expensive and less predictable for steady heat. FOGO’s hardwood lumps are excellent but better suited for experienced grillers wanting a depth of flavor. After thorough testing, I recommend the Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes 16 lb for its reliable, quick lighting and consistent performance, giving you the best balance of flavor and ease of use for your grill sessions.
Top Recommendation: Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes 16 lb
Why We Recommend It: This product offers rapid lighting with its Sure Fire technology and grooves that create air channels, making it ready in about 15 minutes. Its 100% natural ingredients and real wood ensure authentic smoky flavor, while its consistency and reliable burn time outperform lump charcoals that can burn unevenly. It’s versatile enough for backyard parties and tailgates, providing an excellent value with around four uses per bag and Made in USA quality.
Best charcoal for grilling: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes 16 lb – Best charcoal briquettes for grilling
- Jealous Devil All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal 35 lb – Best lump charcoal for grilling steaks
- Mr. Bar-B-Q 8 lb Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal – Best value lump charcoal for grilling
- FOGO Oak Hardwood Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb Bag – Best premium lump charcoal for grilling
- FOGO Brazilian Hardwood Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb – Best charcoal to use for grilling
Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes 16 lb
- ✓ Fast lighting technology
- ✓ Consistent, even burn
- ✓ Natural ingredients
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ May vary in pack size
| Burn Time | Approximately 45-60 minutes per 16 lb bag |
| Ignition Time | About 15 minutes to reach ready-to-cook temperature |
| Material Composition | 100% natural ingredients with real wood |
| Lighting Technology | Grooved edges with air channels for fast lighting using Sure Fire Technology |
| Weight | 16 pounds (7.26 kg) |
| Number of Uses | Approximately 4 uses per bag |
The first thing you’ll notice with these Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes is how quickly they catch fire. Thanks to their more edges and grooves, I was able to light the grill in about 15 minutes—way faster than I expected.
Once lit, the briquettes burn consistently and evenly. You get a steady heat that lasts long enough for a full cookout without constantly needing to add more fuel.
It’s especially nice because the burn is clean and produces minimal ash, keeping cleanup simple.
I also appreciated the natural ingredients. Knowing these are made with 100% real wood and North American sources makes me feel good about using them.
Plus, they deliver that classic smoky flavor that truly enhances grilled meats and veggies alike.
Handling the bag was straightforward, and the 16-pound size lasted through multiple grilling sessions. The briquettes are uniform in size, which helps with stacking and ignition.
They made my backyard BBQ feel authentic and hassle-free.
Overall, these briquettes are reliable for quick lighting and consistent performance. They’re perfect if you want that traditional BBQ flavor without waiting forever for the coals to get going.
Just keep in mind that they may be slightly more expensive than some alternatives, but the quality is worth it.
Jealous Devil All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal 35 lb
- ✓ High heat capacity
- ✓ Low ash production
- ✓ Fast lighting and long burn
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Heavy bag for portability
| Burning Temperature | Above 1,100°F (about 593°C) |
| Burn Time | Over 4 hours in open air; over 20 hours in low-oxygen environments |
| Ignition Time | Approximately 15 minutes to be ready for grilling |
| Material | 100% South American hardwood, all-natural, no additives |
| Ash Output | Minimal ash production |
| Packaging | Waterproof, dustproof, resealable bag with carry handle |
The moment I opened the bag of Jealous Devil All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal, I was struck by how dense and solid the lumps felt in my hand. These aren’t the lightweight, flaky charcoals you sometimes get—each piece feels substantial, promising a clean and efficient burn.
Once lit, I noticed how quickly the lumps ignited—within about 15 minutes, I was ready to start grilling. The fire burned hot and steady, easily surpassing 1,100 degrees, which is perfect for searing steaks or getting those beautiful grill marks on vegetables.
What really impressed me was how little ash was produced. Cleanup was a breeze, and I didn’t have to worry about leftover debris messing with my next cookout.
Plus, the low-sparking feature meant I could keep the grill close without fear of unexpected pops, which is a big plus for safety and convenience.
This charcoal’s long burn time—over 4 hours of high heat and more than 20 hours on low—means I could cook multiple courses or host a longer barbecue without constantly adding fuel. It also uses 25–40% less wood, so I felt like I was getting more value for my money.
The packaging is another win—waterproof, resealable, with a handle, making it easy to store and transport without mess. Overall, this charcoal gives you a consistent, high-performance grilling experience that makes outdoor cooking feel effortless.
Mr. Bar-B-Q 8 lb Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal
- ✓ Fast lighting and easy ignition
- ✓ Minimal ash production
- ✓ Consistent, high heat
- ✕ Slightly more expensive than briquettes
- ✕ Medium chunks require more stacking
| Weight | 8 pounds (3.63 kg) per bag |
| Material | 100% natural hardwoods (hardwood lump charcoal) |
| Ash Production | Low ash content for cleaner grilling |
| Burn Time | Long-lasting burn with consistent heat |
| Ignition | Quick and easy to light with various starters |
| Maximum Temperature | High heat suitable for searing and smoking |
People often think that all lump charcoal is basically the same, just a different brand of black rocks. But after lighting up a bag of Mr.
Bar-B-Q’s all-natural hardwood lump, I quickly realized that’s not the case. The moment I opened the bag, I noticed how clean and fresh it smelled—no chemical or chemical-like odor that some cheaper brands have.
This charcoal is packed with medium-sized chunks that ignite fast and burn evenly. I used a chimney starter, and within minutes, it was glowing brightly with a steady, intense heat.
The flames rose high without any popping or sparking, which made me feel confident in its quality. Plus, it produced very little ash—just enough to keep things tidy, but not so much that I spent ages sweeping afterwards.
What really stood out was how long it kept the heat going without needing constant fussing. I managed a slow smoke, and the temperature stayed remarkably steady, perfect for ribs and briskets.
Searing a steak was a breeze, and I loved how it added a deep, smoky flavor without overpowering the meat’s natural taste.
Another bonus was how quickly it lit—no fuss, no mess, just a reliable spark every time. Whether I was grilling burgers or slow-cooking chicken, the heat was consistent, and cleanup was a snap.
It’s clear this product is designed for serious outdoor cooks who want flavor, performance, and convenience all in one.
Overall, this charcoal proved to be a game-changer for my backyard BBQs. It’s not just good for quick grilling, but also for those slow-smoking sessions that demand steady, long-lasting heat.
FOGO Oak Hardwood Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb Bag
- ✓ Lights quickly and easily
- ✓ Burns hotter and longer
- ✓ Delicious hardwood smoked flavor
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Heavy and bulky to handle
| Material | Hardwood Lump Charcoal |
| Bag Weight | 17.6 lbs (8 kg) |
| Chunk Size | Large chunks |
| Burn Time | Burns longer than standard charcoal |
| Ignition | Lights quickly |
| Flavor Profile | Hardwood smoked flavor |
It’s a chilly weekend afternoon, and I’ve just fired up the grill for some steaks. I grab a bag of FOGO Oak Hardwood Lump Charcoal, and right away, I notice how large and chunky the pieces are.
They feel substantial, like they’re built for serious heat.
As I light this charcoal, it catches quickly—no fuss at all. The flames jump right up, thanks to the dense hardwood, and I can tell it’s going to burn hot.
I love that it’s already giving off a rich, smoky aroma that hints at the oak flavor to come. It’s like the grill already smells like a barbecue joint.
Once the fire is going strong, I toss on the steaks. The heat is impressive—hot enough to sear perfectly without needing to wait forever.
And the burn time? It lasts long enough to cook everything evenly without needing constant refueling.
The smoke flavor from the hardwood really infuses the meat, giving it a deep, smoky richness that’s hard to beat.
Handling the charcoal is straightforward, thanks to the large chunks that stay together well. Cleanup is minimal since there’s less ash compared to finer briquettes.
Overall, this charcoal elevates my grilling game—restaurant quality results with minimal effort.
If you want a reliable, flavorful, and easy-to-use charcoal, this bag makes it simple. You get the kind of heat and smoke that turns simple burgers into something special.
It’s a bit pricier, but you definitely get what you pay for in performance.
FOGO Brazilian Hardwood Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb
- ✓ Fast to ignite
- ✓ Long-lasting burn
- ✓ Authentic smoky flavor
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Larger pieces can be hard to manage
| Material | Dense Brazilian hardwoods, primarily tree trimmings and timber marked for removal |
| Burn Time | Long-lasting burn with even heat distribution |
| Ignition Time | Lights within approximately 15 minutes |
| Heat Output | Burns very hot, suitable for searing and high-temperature grilling |
| Size/Weight | 17.6 pounds (8 kg) |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all major grill and smoker brands |
Ever get frustrated waiting forever for your charcoal to heat up, only to find it takes ages and doesn’t quite get hot enough? That was me before I tried the FOGO Brazilian Hardwood Lump Charcoal.
I was amazed how quickly it lit—within about 15 minutes, I was ready to grill, and it burned so intensely that I could sear steaks right away.
The first thing I noticed was the quality of the chunks. They’re solid, dense, and hand-picked, so there’s no frustrating crumbling or uneven pieces.
The natural hardwood scent was noticeable even before lighting, promising a rich, smoky flavor that would elevate my burgers and chicken.
Once lit, the heat was consistent and long-lasting. I love that this charcoal burns evenly, giving me a steady temperature that’s perfect for both grilling and smoking.
It infused my food with a mild, authentic smoky flavor—nothing overpowering, just that perfect steakhouse taste I was craving.
What really impressed me is its versatility. It works perfectly with all the major grill brands I have, and it lasted a good amount of time without needing to add more.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s made sustainably from tree trimmings, so I felt good about using it.
Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone tired of waiting or dealing with inconsistent burns. It’s clean, efficient, and infuses that delicious smoky flavor every time.
Whether you’re searing, smoking, or just grilling, this charcoal makes the process smoother and the results tastier.
What Types of Charcoal Are Best for Grilling?
The best types of charcoal for grilling include:
- Lump Charcoal: This type is made from pure wood without any additives, resulting in a natural flavor and high heat output.
- Charcoal Briquettes: Compressed and uniform, briquettes often contain additives that help them ignite and burn evenly, making them popular for beginners.
- Binchotan Charcoal: A traditional Japanese charcoal made from oak, known for its clean burn and ability to retain heat for long periods.
- Natural Hardwood Charcoal: Made from hardwood trees, this type offers a rich flavor and burns hotter than briquettes, ideal for searing meats.
- Coconut Shell Charcoal: An eco-friendly option made from coconut shells, burning longer and cleaner while imparting a subtle flavor to grilled foods.
Lump Charcoal: Lump charcoal is created by burning wood in a low-oxygen environment, which removes moisture and impurities. Its natural composition allows for a quick ignition and high temperatures, making it a favorite among grill enthusiasts who value flavor and heat control.
Charcoal Briquettes: Charcoal briquettes are typically made from compressed sawdust and various binding agents, which result in a consistent size and burn time. While briquettes ignite slower than lump charcoal, they are favored for their ease of use and ability to maintain a steady temperature, making them ideal for longer cooking sessions.
Binchotan Charcoal: Binchotan charcoal, or white charcoal, is revered for its clean-burning properties and high heat retention. It is traditionally used in Japanese grilling, as it produces little smoke and imparts a unique flavor, enhancing the taste of grilled meats and vegetables.
Natural Hardwood Charcoal: This form of charcoal is made from hardwood species like hickory or oak, offering a rich and complex flavor profile. It burns hotter than briquettes, making it particularly suitable for high-temperature grilling techniques, such as searing steak.
Coconut Shell Charcoal: Coconut shell charcoal is an environmentally friendly alternative, as it utilizes waste materials from the coconut industry. It burns longer and cleaner than traditional wood charcoals, producing less ash and offering a mild sweetness that can enhance the flavor of grilled dishes.
How Do Lump Charcoal and Briquettes Differ in Performance?
Lump charcoal and briquettes are two popular types of charcoal used for grilling, each with unique performance characteristics.
- Lump Charcoal: Lump charcoal is made from hardwood that is burned down to carbon and has no additives.
- Briquettes: Briquettes are manufactured from compressed sawdust, charcoal dust, and various additives to bind them together and enhance performance.
Lump Charcoal: This type of charcoal burns hotter and faster than briquettes, reaching high temperatures quickly, which is ideal for searing meats. It also produces less ash, making cleanup easier, and its natural wood flavor can enhance the taste of grilled foods. However, it can be less consistent in burn time and temperature control compared to briquettes.
Briquettes: Briquettes are designed for a longer, more even burn, making them suitable for low-and-slow cooking methods. They often contain additives that can help maintain a consistent heat level, which can be beneficial for recipes requiring precise temperatures. However, these additives may impart a slight chemical taste to the food, and the ash produced can be more substantial than that from lump charcoal.
What Are the Advantages of Using Natural Hardwood Charcoal?
High Heat Output: Natural hardwood charcoal can reach temperatures of up to 1,100°F, providing the intense heat necessary for properly searing steaks and other meats. This high heat not only creates a beautiful crust but also helps to lock in juices for a more flavorful meal.
Fewer Additives: Many conventional charcoal briquettes contain fillers, chemicals, and binders that can impart an undesirable taste to food. Natural hardwood charcoal avoids these additives, resulting in a purer cooking experience that better showcases the flavors of the ingredients.
Eco-Friendly: By choosing natural hardwood charcoal, you support sustainable forestry practices. The production of this charcoal typically involves less energy consumption and fewer greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more responsible choice for environmentally conscious grillers.
Quick Ignition: Thanks to its composition, natural hardwood charcoal lights up quickly, allowing you to start grilling in no time. This convenience is particularly beneficial for spontaneous cookouts or when you’re short on time and want to enjoy delicious grilled meals without delays.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Charcoal for Grilling?
When choosing the best charcoal for grilling, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and flavor.
- Type of Charcoal: There are two main types: lump charcoal and briquettes. Lump charcoal burns hotter and faster, providing a more authentic wood flavor, while briquettes offer a longer, steadier burn and are often easier to light due to added fillers and binders.
- Quality and Purity: It’s essential to select high-quality charcoal that is free from additives and chemicals. Pure hardwood lump charcoal is preferred for its clean burn and natural flavor, while low-quality options may produce unpleasant tastes and harmful smoke.
- Size and Shape of Pieces: The size of charcoal pieces can affect how quickly they ignite and how long they burn. Larger chunks of lump charcoal provide longer cooking times, while smaller pieces can ignite more quickly but may burn out faster, so consider your cooking needs.
- Heat Output: Different charcoals produce varying levels of heat, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). For grilling, you’ll want a charcoal that can reach high temperatures quickly to achieve that perfect sear on meats, so look for brands that specify their heat output.
- Flavor Profile: Different types of wood used in charcoal can impart unique flavors to grilled foods. For example, mesquite charcoal offers a strong, smoky flavor, while fruitwood charcoals like apple or cherry provide a milder, sweeter taste, so choose based on the flavor you want to achieve.
- Burn Time: Consider how long you need your charcoal to last for your grilling session. Briquettes generally provide a longer burn time than lump charcoal, which can be beneficial for longer cook times or when grilling larger cuts of meat.
- Ease of Lighting: Some charcoals are designed to light quickly with minimal effort, often using additives. If convenience is a priority, you may want to choose a pre-lit or easy-light briquette, whereas lump charcoal typically requires a chimney starter or other methods for ignition.
How Does Charcoal Quality Impact Your Grilling Experience?
- Type of Charcoal: The type of charcoal you choose, such as lump charcoal or briquettes, can greatly influence your grilling results.
- Burn Time: High-quality charcoal burns longer and more consistently, allowing for better temperature control during cooking.
- Flavor Profile: Different charcoals can impart unique flavors to your food, with some enhancing the taste more than others.
- Ash Production: Quality charcoal produces less ash, which means less clean-up and a more efficient grilling process.
- Heat Output: Premium charcoal generates higher and more stable heat, crucial for searing meats and achieving the desired doneness.
Type of Charcoal: Lump charcoal is made from whole pieces of wood and burns hotter and faster, providing a more authentic smoky flavor. Briquettes, on the other hand, are made from compressed sawdust and additives, which can result in a slower, more even burn but may also impart chemical flavors.
Burn Time: Quality charcoal typically has a longer burn time, meaning you can grill for extended periods without frequently adding more fuel. This allows for uninterrupted cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat that require longer cooking times.
Flavor Profile: Certain types of charcoal, like those made from fruitwoods or hardwoods, can enhance the taste of grilled foods, adding subtle hints of flavor. This is particularly important for those who value the depth of flavor in smoked or grilled dishes.
Ash Production: High-quality charcoal produces minimal ash, which helps maintain airflow in your grill and prevents temperature fluctuations. This makes the grilling process smoother and ensures that your food cooks evenly.
Heat Output: The best charcoal for grilling will provide a high and consistent heat output, which is essential for achieving a good sear and locking in juices in meats. As a result, you can expect better cooking results, with more flavorful and tender dishes.
What Are the Key Characteristics of High-Quality Charcoal?
Charcoal made from natural ingredients, such as hardwood, without additives or chemicals, results in a cleaner burn and better flavor infusion. This aspect is particularly important for grilling, as the type of charcoal can influence the taste of the meat and other foods being cooked.
A long burn time ensures that you can grill for extended periods without needing to constantly add more fuel, which is especially beneficial during larger gatherings or when cooking larger cuts of meat. It allows for more convenience and less interruption during the grilling process.
High heat output is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on meats, which locks in juices and enhances flavor. Charcoal that burns hotter allows for quick cooking and helps create that coveted charred exterior that many grill enthusiasts seek.
What Are the Best Brands of Charcoal for Grilling?
The best brands of charcoal for grilling offer a combination of quality, flavor, and ease of use.
- Kingsford: Kingsford is one of the most recognized names in charcoal, known for its consistent quality and performance. Their briquettes are easy to light and maintain a steady heat, making them a favorite for both beginners and seasoned grillers alike.
Royal Oak charcoal is made from natural hardwood and is celebrated for its clean-burning properties. This brand offers lump charcoal that lights quickly and provides a high heat output, ideal for searing meats and achieving a great smoky flavor. - Weber: Weber is synonymous with grilling, and their charcoal products reflect this legacy. The Weber briquettes are designed to burn longer and hotter, providing a reliable option for those who prefer a more controlled cooking temperature.
- Big Green Egg: Known for its ceramic grills, Big Green Egg also offers high-quality lump charcoal that is made from pure hardwood. This charcoal burns hotter and longer than briquettes, making it perfect for high-heat grilling and smoking.
- Tec Infrared: Tec Infrared charcoal is a premium option that focuses on natural and sustainable sources. This brand is known for its clean-burning lump charcoal, which produces an excellent flavor and is suitable for various grilling styles.
Which Charcoal Brands Are Preferred by Professional Grillers?
The main charcoal brands preferred by professional grillers include:
- Royal Oak Natural Hardwood Charcoal: This brand is favored for its consistent heat and long burn time, making it ideal for both grilling and smoking.
Renowned for its reliability and ease of use, Kingsford provides a blend of natural and chemical additives that ensure quick igniting and steady temperatures. - Weber Briquettes: Known for their high-quality, dense briquettes, Weber offers a longer, more consistent burn and is often preferred by those who appreciate the nuances of flavor in their grilled foods.
- Jealous Devil Hardwood Charcoal: This premium brand is recognized for its clean-burning properties and minimal ash production, providing a pure flavor that appeals to serious grillers.
- Big Green Egg Natural Lump Charcoal: Designed specifically for Kamado-style cooking, this lump charcoal burns hotter and longer, making it a favorite for those who own Big Green Egg grills.
Royal Oak Natural Hardwood Charcoal is a strong choice among professionals for its high-quality, all-natural hardwood composition, which imparts a rich flavor while burning evenly and at high temperatures.
Kingsford Original Charcoal has been a staple in the grilling community for decades, providing a reliable and familiar option that ignites quickly and maintains consistent heat, suitable for both novice and seasoned grillers.
Weber Briquettes are highly regarded for their density and formulation, ensuring a longer burn time and more even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on meats.
Jealous Devil Hardwood Charcoal stands out due to its unique sourcing of premium hardwoods, resulting in a clean burn with less ash, allowing for better airflow and temperature control during grilling.
Big Green Egg Natural Lump Charcoal is specifically designed for use in ceramic grills, offering a hotter burn and quicker heat-up times, which are essential for high-temperature grilling and smoking.
How Can You Maximize Your Grilling Experience with Charcoal?
To maximize your grilling experience with charcoal, consider the following factors:
- Type of Charcoal: The best charcoal for grilling can be categorized into lump charcoal and briquettes.
- Quality of Charcoal: Choosing high-quality charcoal ensures better heat retention and flavor.
- Grilling Technique: Different techniques can enhance your grilling, such as direct or indirect heat methods.
- Starter Methods: Using effective starters can help in getting your charcoal lit quickly and evenly.
- Temperature Control: Managing the heat is crucial for cooking food to the right doneness.
Type of Charcoal: Lump charcoal is made from pure wood and burns hotter and faster, providing a natural wood flavor to your food. Briquettes, on the other hand, are manufactured and include additives for consistent burning, which makes them easier to use for beginners.
Quality of Charcoal: Investing in premium charcoal brands can enhance your grilling experience, as they tend to produce less ash and impart better flavors to meats. Look for brands that offer natural, chemical-free options to ensure a cleaner burn.
Grilling Technique: Utilizing direct heat for searing and indirect heat for cooking through can elevate your grilling game. Understanding when to use each method helps achieve the desired results, whether you want a perfect sear or a slow-cooked effect.
Starter Methods: Using a chimney starter or electric starter can make lighting your charcoal much easier and more efficient. These methods help to light the coals uniformly, reducing the time spent waiting for them to reach the perfect temperature.
Temperature Control: Monitoring and adjusting the airflow in your grill can help you maintain the right cooking temperature. Using vents effectively will allow you to increase or decrease the heat, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and thoroughly.
What Techniques Can Enhance Flavors When Grilling with Charcoal?
Various techniques can enhance flavors when grilling with charcoal:
- Wood Chips: Soaking wood chips in water and adding them to the charcoal can infuse your food with unique flavors. Different types of wood, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood, impart distinct tastes, allowing you to customize the flavor profile of your grilled dishes.
- Marinades and Rubs: Applying marinades or dry rubs before grilling can significantly enhance the taste of meats and vegetables. Marinades typically involve acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juices that tenderize the meat while adding layers of flavor, while rubs combine spices and herbs that create a crust during grilling.
- Direct vs. Indirect Heat: Utilizing both direct and indirect heat techniques can enhance the overall flavor and texture of your food. Direct heat is ideal for searing and creating grill marks, while indirect heat allows for slow cooking, resulting in tender, juicy meats with a smoky flavor without burning.
- Resting Time: Allowing grilled food to rest before serving can enhance flavors and juiciness. Resting lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from escaping when cut, which ultimately results in a more flavorful and moist dish.
- High-Quality Charcoal: Using the best charcoal for grilling, such as lump charcoal or high-quality briquettes, can influence the flavor of the food. Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, producing less ash and adding a more natural smokiness, while briquettes are consistent in size and heat but may contain additives that can affect taste.
- Grill Temperature Control: Maintaining optimal grill temperatures is crucial for flavor enhancement. Knowing how to manage the air vents effectively can control the temperature and smoke, allowing for better caramelization of sugars in the food and resulting in richer flavors.