Ways to prevent smoke when grilling

Ways to prevent smoke when grilling - Grilled Sausage on Charcoal Grill

I've been grilling hamburgers and steaks but my neighbors complain about the smoke. Are there ways to reduce the smoke but still let me cook basically the same way?

I'm currently using a Weber Kettle. I'd be willing to consider buying something new if it could keep the smoke down somehow. Currently using briquettes. Have been told lump might less smoke but wondering if it's enough.

Do any smokeless grills exist? Something with a short chimney+fan+filter? Or are there other solutions? Switching to electric or propane seems meh as no flavor.



Best Answer

Using actual charcoal rather than briquettes will make much less smoke, particularly the more objectionable "coal" smoke from getting the briquettes burnt far enough that they are useable.

In my personal experience actual charcoal lights (to a usable state) faster and if you have a good tight grill can be put out by sealing the grill for re-use, much more effectively than briquettes. If your grill is no longer tight you can put it out with water, then dry it, and re-use it.

You'll still get some smoke from burning fats dripping off the meat. But proper charcoal is effectively smokeless, itself.




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Quick Answer about "Ways to prevent smoke when grilling"

  • Always thaw meat before cooking.
  • Partially cook meat and fish in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds on high before grilling and discard the juices. This decreases grilling time and reduces risk of smoke flare-ups.


  • How do I stop my grill from smoking?

    Just open the lid and move your food to an indirect area on the grill. Then, lower the temperature inside the grill by either closing the vents on a charcoal grill or turning the controls knobs to medium or low on a gas grill. That's about it!

    What causes smoke in grill?

    When you use the grill for the first time, it may produce some smoke. This is normal and you can continue using the appliance. A lot of warm oil or fat causes smoke. Make sure the side of the grilling plate you are not going to use is clean and dry before you turn the plate.

    How do you limit the smoke on a gas grill?

    If the gas pressure is too high, reduce the heat by either turning the knobs or closing the vents. This will prevent excess flames that produce unwanted smoke.

    How do you start a charcoal grill without smoke?

    There's no better way to light your charcoal. Just put in 2 pieces of bunched-up newspaper (you could even use a piece of the charcoal bag if it's made from paper), fill the chimney with charcoal, and light the newspaper. Take the top grate of your grill off, set the chimney down in the grill, and let it rip.



    BBQ White Smoke, Dirty \u0026 Bad smoke!




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