Briquettes Vs Charcoal for the snake method

Skak · Post by **Skak** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 10:30 pm

Hey guys,
I have just purchased a new weber and am just trying to get my head around how to use it and was just wondering if I could get some help. I was just wondering if many people use lump charcoal for the snake method and secondly when is one charcoal better than briquettes and visa versa?
Cheers Steve

Muppet · Post by **Muppet** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 10:59 pm

I use beads for the snake, charcoal for everything else, get yourself a chimney starter they are worth every cent. This is a rough guide but gives you somewhere to start. Full chimney rocking will go 400f to 450f and ramp down (great for pork) , full chimney half lit 350+ and fairly steady (chooks) snake with beads 225f-250f and will run 12+hrs (low and slow). It's a pain to get a steady charcoal snake going... I've given up on that.

chriso · Post by **chriso** » Fri Oct 09, 2015 11:07 am

Lump works for a snake but is harder to get a consistent heat output and doesn't last as long. I've done both and prefer the heatbeads for long cooks as it's less hassle.

Ron173 · Post by **Ron173** » Sat Nov 07, 2015 9:21 am

I'd def say heatbeads, nothing against lump, and i'm sure it works great, but for me, the uniformity of the beads wins, IMO it is easier to get a consistent pile and burn.

I find it hard enough to get my snake temp even, so anything that can reduce the odds has to be good, n the beads are all a nice even size.

I find the best place to buy is Bunnings, in the 16kg box, if your lucky , jag em on special n top up with a couple boxes.

steinyboys · Post by **steinyboys** » Sat Nov 07, 2015 10:05 am

Yes for the snake use beads by far better option, I have never had problem using this methods be patient at the start, and do not put the kettle lid on till you are going well, no rush I use two on bottom two on top and once I am happy they are going well lid on 250deg for the whole cook good luck

Aussie BBQ Forum