What are the differences between various types of charcoal?

There are two basic types of charcoal: lump and briquettes. Both have their own unique benefits.

• Charcoal Briquettes -- This is the most commonly used charcoal (if you've used Kingsford charcoal before, you've used briquettes). These coals have little grooves on them, creating more surface area for the coals to get hotter. This allows you to use less during each use. Briquettes are easily accessible and the cheaper of the two options. They are easy to burn and will last a long time.

• Lump Charcoal -- This is what you may want to use if you prefer a more purist charcoal. Lump charcoal does not have any additives or chemicals and brings out the most flavor of the two options. But this type of charcoal heats up very quickly and loses its heat quickly, so you may find yourself continuously adding more and more to keep your temperature high enough for cooking. This option is significantly more expensive than the briquettes, as well.

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