If you’re looking for the perfect way to enhance the flavor of your grilled food, then lump charcoal for smoking might be the way to go. Not only does it offer a natural and authentic smoky flavor to grilled meat and vegetables, it also burns hotter and longer than other types of charcoal. But with so many choices of lump charcoal available, how do you choose the best one for your barbecue needs?
Before buying the best lump charcoal for smoking, there are several factors to consider. First, take a look at the type of wood used to make the charcoal. Different types of wood impart different flavors, so choose the one that will complement your food. Also, consider the size of the charcoal pieces. Larger pieces are ideal for longer smoking sessions, while smaller pieces are great for quick grilling.
When selecting the best lump charcoal for smoking, it’s important to ask yourself the right questions. Do you prefer an intense smoky flavor, or something more subtle? How important is the quality and consistency of the charcoal to you? Are you willing to pay more for a premium product? All of these questions can guide you towards the perfect lump charcoal for smoking that will elevate your next barbecue experience.
10 Best Lump Charcoal For Smoking
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1
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Ideal for grilling and smoking, providing enhanced flavor and longer burn time compared to briquettes.
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2
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It is ideal for grilling and barbecuing with 100% natural hardwood lump charcoal made in the USA.
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3
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Ideal for adding natural smoky flavor to grilled meats and vegetables on charcoal or gas grills.
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4
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It is ideal for grilling and smoking due to its large sized all-natural hardwood lump charcoal.
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5
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Ideal for grilling and smoking meats due to its high heat output, long burn time, and natural wood flavor.
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6
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This product is ideal for outdoor grilling and smoking.
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7
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Ideal for grilling and smoking meats with a unique, smoky flavor.
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8
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Ideal for smoking and grilling with its all-natural, large chunk wood chips that add a mildly sweet flavor.
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9
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This product is ideal for grilling and smoking food outdoors.
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10
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It is ideal for outdoor cooking and grilling, providing a smoky flavor and consistent heat source.
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1. Jealous Devil All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal – 35lb

The 100% Natural South American Hardwoods are a must-have for grill enthusiasts who value quality and purity. These ultra-dense hardwoods are free from any chemicals, fillers, or scrap material, making them a safe and reliable option for use on any grill, smoker, or kamado.
Designed for pro and restaurant use, these hardwoods provide superior burn quality with no sparking, popping, or excessive ash. The twice the cook power of over 7000kcal/g ensures hotter temperatures of up to 1170F, and a longer burn time of 4+ hours on open grills and 20+ hours in smokers.
The mild flavor-enhancing aroma of these hardwoods adds a subtle smokiness to your food without overpowering it, making them perfect for cooking whitefish or brisket. They can be used alone or blended with your favorite wood to create a unique flavor profile.
With a focus on quality and purity, these South American hardwoods are a great addition to any grill enthusiast's collection. Enjoy the natural flavors of your food with these high-quality hardwoods.
2. Usa All-Natural Hardwood Charcoal For Grilling

This all-natural hardwood lump charcoal for grilling is the perfect choice for those who care about the quality of their food and the environment. Made in the USA from Missouri-grown Oak, Hickory, Maple, and Pecan, this charcoal is free from harmful chemicals and additives, ensuring that your food is safe to eat.
This charcoal has received the approval of both BBQ competition teams and Pitmasters who cook with it, as well as people who use it for cooking on their grills at home. It currently ranks #1 out of 100+ on The Naked Whiz's website, a site dedicated to all things charcoal. This endorsement is a testament to the quality and performance of this product.
The slow-burning, ash-minimizing hardwood lump bbq charcoal lights easily, heats up quickly, and burns boldly, resulting in juicier, more flavorful food. It is great for any type of grill or smoker and is kilned to higher carbonization to burn cleaner and hotter. You can use it to grill or smoke any type of meat, fish, or vegetable.
This charcoal also leaves very little ash behind, which means less mess to clean up after you’re done grilling. Additionally, all of the kiln emissions are fired to 1500F to burn out any particulate and the "fines" (pieces too small for the bag) are sold for agricultural soil amendments (biochar), returning the carbon to the Earth.
The paper bags and soy-based inks used for packaging are recyclable, landfill-safe, and won't produce harmful fumes if burned. This is great for those who are passionate about creating products that keep the planet healthy and clean.
3. Weber Cherry Chunks, 350 Cu. In. (0.006 Cubic Meter), 4 Lb, Natural Wood Color

If you're looking to add a subtle fruity flavor to your grilled dishes, look no further than these cherry wood chunks. The natural cherry wood lends a delicate sweetness to your food that pairs perfectly with fish, poultry, pork, and vegetables.
Each bag contains 350 cubic inches (0.006 cubic meters) of wood chunks, ensuring that you have enough to last through multiple grilling sessions. These cherry wood chunks are made from high-quality cherry wood, which is known for its distinct flavor and aroma.
To use, simply soak the chunks in water for a few hours before placing them on your grill. The moist wood will create a fragrant smoke that infuses your food with the delicious cherry flavor.
Not only do these cherry wood chunks add delicious flavor, but they also create a beautiful presentation. The rich, reddish-brown color of the wood adds an aesthetic touch to your grilled dishes that is sure to impress your guests.
4. Fogo All-Natural Lump Charcoal For Grilling & Smoking.

Introducing the all-natural hardwood lump charcoal, weighing in at 17.6 pounds, a perfect choice for extended cooking sessions. This high-quality charcoal is a must-have for ceramic-style Kamado grills such as Big Green Egg, Primo, Kamado Joe, and many more.
The bag boasts large pieces of 4 inches or larger, which fill at least 80 percent of the bag. These larger pieces have more surface area, enabling longer burn times and making it easy to reach high searing temperatures. The restaurant-grade quality of this charcoal ensures that you get the best possible results every time you cook.
This lump charcoal is specially designed to light quickly and burn for an extended period, making it ideal for both grilling and smoking. Whether you're cooking up a storm at a BBQ or hosting a dinner party, this all-natural hardwood lump charcoal is sure to impress your guests with its superior performance.
If you're looking for an everyday cooking option, try FOGO Premium. Otherwise, this all-natural hardwood lump charcoal is the perfect choice for those who want to take their grilling game to the next level. So why wait? Get your hands on this high-quality charcoal today and start grilling like a pro!
5. B&b Charcoal Oak Lump Charcoal, 4540 Gr

Looking for a way to cook your meat faster while still maintaining its natural flavor? Look no further than this efficient and effective meat searer. With its innovative design, this product is able to lock in the delicious taste of your favorite meats while cooking them to perfection in record time.
One of the key features of this product is its use of high-quality oak charcoal. This type of charcoal is known for its ability to heat up quickly and evenly, ensuring that your meat is cooked through without being overdone. Additionally, oak charcoal imparts a delicious smoky flavor to your meat, making it even more enjoyable to eat.
Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just starting out, you'll appreciate the simplicity and ease of use that this product provides. With its straightforward design and intuitive controls, you'll be able to cook up perfectly seared meat every time without any hassle or fuss.
So if you're looking for a way to take your grilling game to the next level, consider investing in this top-quality meat searer. With its advanced features and unbeatable performance, it's sure to become an essential tool in your arsenal of cooking equipment.
6. 3317 100% All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal For Outdoor Grill And Smoker, 17.6 Pounds

Experience bold and flavorful cooking with the all-natural hardwood lump charcoal. This product is perfect for grill enthusiasts who want to add a distinctive taste to their meals. The charcoal is kiln-fired and packaged in its natural lump shape without any additives or chemicals.
One of the notable features of this product is that it is easy to light, taking only half the time of briquettes. It burns hot to seal in moisture and sear in flavors, making it ideal for enhancing the taste of beef, chicken, fish or pork. It reaches optimal cooking temperature in just approximately 15 minutes, ensuring a quick and efficient grilling experience.
This all-natural hardwood lump charcoal is a great flavor enhancer that adds bold, open-fire zest to your meals. It comes in a 17.6-pound bag, providing ample supply for multiple cookouts.
Whether you are a grill master or a beginner, this product is an excellent choice for achieving a delicious and distinctive taste. With its all-natural composition and impressive features, this hardwood lump charcoal is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
7. B&b Charcoal Charcoal Lump Mesquite, 128 Oz

B&B Premium Quality Mesquite Lump Charcoal is a top-of-the-line product that has been recognized among the top 100 most recognized brands in the world. The charcoal is made of pure, ultra-dense South American hardwoods, ensuring you get high-quality charcoal that contains no chemicals, fillers, or scrap material.
This innovative charcoal has been designed to offer you the best grilling experience with no sparking, no popping, and low ash formation, making it ideal for any grill, smoker, or kamado. The charcoal burns hotter, longer, and cleaner than regular charcoal, and it is 100% natural, making it environmentally friendly.
The B&B Premium Quality Mesquite Lump Charcoal comes in an 8 lbs container and weighs 846 lbs. This little goes a long way product is better burning charcoal that is perfect for your BBQ needs. With no chemical additives and a mesquite charcoal type, you can be sure that you are getting the best quality charcoal that will give you the authentic BBQ taste you crave.
B&B has been providing better burning charcoal since 1961, and with their unique process, they have been able to produce pure mesquite lump charcoal that is of premium quality. Their vision has always been to be the best and most helpful hardware stores, and they have never compromised on the quality of their products.
8. Green Apple Wood: Authentic Smoky Sweetness

Introducing the All Natural Apple Wood Chunks, a smoking wood chunk that is perfect for enhancing the flavor of your favorite dishes. Made from 100% apple hardwood, these chunks are crafted without any harsh chemicals, ensuring that the natural flavor of your food is preserved.
Ideal for elevating your charcoal grilling and smoking experience, these wood chunks can be used alongside lump charcoal, on their own, or in your smoker to add a smoky, sweet, and fruity flavor to poultry, pork, beef, seafood, and lamb.
The All Natural Apple Wood Chunks come in large chunks that have been carefully selected to ensure that you get only the biggest pieces for the most satisfying results. The superb flavor comes from natural fire with quality smoke, making these chunks the perfect choice for grill masters and food lovers alike.
These wood chunks are incredibly easy to use, and can be placed on top of charcoal, in a smoker box, in a covered foil pan with poke holes placed away from flames, or on their own. This versatility makes them the perfect choice for anyone who wants to add a delicious smoky flavor to their dishes without any hassle.
Fire & Flavor is a brand that is dedicated to providing naturally delicious, ingeniously convenient, and truly unique cooking solutions for food lovers everywhere. With a passion for creating mouth-watering results, they have crafted the All Natural Apple Wood Chunks to help you achieve the perfect flavor every time.
9. Fogo Fhwc35lb 35-Pound All Natural Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal Bag, Black (Fp35)

Introducing Fogo Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal, a top-quality product that promises to elevate your grilling game. Carefully selected, this 35 lb bag contains large chunks of hardwood lump charcoal that are ideal for generating a delicious smoky flavor in your food.
Fogo Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is the perfect fuel for your grill, as it lights quickly and burns hotter and longer than other brands. This ensures that your food is cooked to perfection, with the signature char marks and smoky flavor that are synonymous with outdoor cooking.
Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice, Fogo Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is sure to impress you with its restaurant-quality performance. The product is made from high-quality hardwood, ensuring that your food is infused with a rich, natural smoky flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The 35 lb bag of Fogo Super Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is perfect for those who love to grill frequently, as it offers a large quantity of high-quality charcoal that will last for many grilling sessions. The product is also very easy to use, as it quickly ignites and maintains a consistent temperature, allowing you to focus on cooking your food to perfection.
10. Cowboy 24220 Lump Charcoal, 20-Pound

The all-natural 100-percent hardwood lump charcoal is a top-of-the-line product that guarantees quality cooking results. Made from renewable resources, this charcoal is environmentally sustainable and free from any additives that may produce off tastes or flavors.
This product burns hot and fast, which makes it ideal for searing in food's flavors. Unlike briquettes, this lump charcoal does not contain any additives that may alter the taste of your food.
What's more, this charcoal lights easily without the need for lighter fluid. This feature is not only convenient but also ensures that your food does not come into contact with any harmful chemicals.
With this product, you can be confident of achieving the best cooking results. Its all-natural composition guarantees that your food will be cooked to perfection while preserving its natural flavors.
Best Lump Charcoal For Smoking FAQs
Are there any additives or chemicals in the best lump charcoal for smoking?
The best lump charcoal for smoking is made of pure wood with no additives or chemicals. The process of making lump charcoal involves burning wood in the absence of oxygen, leaving behind only the carbon and natural binders. This results in a clean burning fuel that imparts a natural smoky flavor to the food being cooked.
It is important to note that not all lump charcoal is created equal, and some brands may contain fillers or chemicals to enhance burning or appearance. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a reputable brand that clearly states the ingredients on the packaging.
Additionally, it is important to follow proper safety precautions when using lump charcoal for smoking, such as using appropriate equipment and ensuring proper ventilation to avoid inhaling harmful fumes. Overall, choosing a high-quality, pure lump charcoal can enhance the flavor of your smoked foods without any added chemicals or additives.
Can I mix different types of lump charcoal for smoking?
Yes, you can mix different types of lump charcoal for smoking. In fact, many professional pitmasters use a blend of different charcoals to achieve the desired flavor and heat level for their smoking. However, it is important to note that not all charcoals are created equal and each type may burn differently. So, it is important to understand the characteristics of each type of charcoal you are using in order to achieve the desired outcome.
For example, some charcoals may burn hotter and faster than others, while others may impart a more distinct flavor. Mixing different types of charcoals can help balance these characteristics and create a more consistent burn and flavor profile. Additionally, it is important to make sure the charcoals you are mixing are of similar size and quality to ensure even burning.
In summary, mixing different types of lump charcoal for smoking is a common practice among pitmasters, but it is important to understand the characteristics of each type and ensure they are of similar quality and size for optimal results.
How do I choose the right size of lump charcoal for smoking?
Choosing the right size of lump charcoal for smoking is essential to get the best results from your smoker. The ideal size of lump charcoal usually varies from smoker to smoker, and it is essential to find the one that suits your cooking needs.
Firstly, you should consider the type of smoker you are using. If you have a small smoker, you may want to opt for smaller pieces of charcoal, which will fit better into your smoker. Larger smokers can handle larger pieces of charcoal, which can provide a longer burn time.
Secondly, you should consider the type of food you are smoking. If you are smoking larger cuts of meat or briskets, then you will want to use larger pieces of charcoal to provide a longer burn time. If you are smoking smaller items like chicken or fish, then smaller pieces of charcoal will suffice.
Lastly, you should consider the quality of the lump charcoal. High-quality lump charcoal burns hotter and longer, providing consistent heat and flavor to your food. It is essential to choose a reputable brand that provides high-quality charcoal.
In conclusion, choosing the right size of lump charcoal for smoking depends on the smoker you are using, the type of food you are smoking, and the quality of the lump charcoal. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you get the best results from your smoker.
How does the quality of the wood used in lump charcoal affect the smoking process?
The quality of the wood used in lump charcoal plays a significant role in the smoking process. The type of wood used and its quality will impact the flavor and aroma of the food being smoked. Hardwoods such as oak, hickory, and mesquite are commonly used for smoking due to their density and high heat output. The denser the wood, the longer it will burn, providing a more consistent and longer-lasting heat source for smoking.
The quality of the wood used in the charcoal can also affect the amount of ash produced during the smoking process. Low-quality wood can produce excess ash, which can clog air vents and affect the temperature control of the smoker.
In addition to the type and quality of the wood, the production process of the lump charcoal can also impact the smoking process. Charcoal made from natural hardwoods using a slow-burning process will produce a cleaner burn with less ash and a richer flavor profile compared to charcoal made from scrap wood or processed using chemicals.
In summary, the quality of the wood used in lump charcoal is crucial in achieving the desired flavor, aroma, and texture of the smoked food. It is essential to choose high-quality hardwoods and properly produced lump charcoal to ensure a successful smoking process.
How long does the best lump charcoal for smoking last?
The duration of the best lump charcoal for smoking depends on various factors such as the size of the charcoal, the cooking temperature, and the smoking method. Typically, high-quality lump charcoal can last for several hours, ranging from 4 to 8 hours. However, this may vary depending on the type of meat being smoked and the desired level of smokiness. Furthermore, the temperature at which the charcoal burns plays a significant role in determining its longevity. When cooking at lower temperatures, the charcoal burns slowly, resulting in a longer smoking time. Conversely, cooking at higher temperatures may require frequent refueling of the charcoal. It is crucial to note that the quality of the charcoal significantly affects its longevity. High-quality lump charcoal burns hotter, longer, and produces less ash, resulting in a more efficient smoking process. In summary, the duration of the best lump charcoal for smoking varies depending on various factors, and it is crucial to consider these factors to achieve the desired results.
What are the characteristics of the best lump charcoal for smoking?
When it comes to smoking, the choice of charcoal can have a significant impact on the flavor and quality of the food. The best lump charcoal for smoking should have certain characteristics that make it ideal for the purpose.
Firstly, the charcoal should be made from hardwoods, such as oak, hickory, or maple, that have a dense structure and low moisture content. This ensures that the charcoal burns evenly and produces a consistent heat that is essential for smoking.
Secondly, the charcoal should be made from large pieces of wood that are easily ignitable and do not contain any additives or fillers. This ensures that the charcoal burns cleanly and does not produce any unwanted flavors or odors that can affect the taste of the food.
Thirdly, the charcoal should produce a minimal amount of ash and smoke, which can interfere with the smoking process and affect the flavor of the food.
Lastly, the best lump charcoal for smoking should be sustainable and environmentally friendly, made from renewable sources and harvested responsibly.
In summary, the best lump charcoal for smoking should be made from hardwoods, be free of additives and fillers, produce minimal ash and smoke, and be sustainable and environmentally friendly.
What are the top brands of lump charcoal for smoking?
When it comes to smoking, lump charcoal is the preferred choice of many pitmasters and grillers. It is made from natural hardwood and burns hotter and faster than briquettes, which makes it ideal for smoking meat and other foods. Some of the top brands of lump charcoal for smoking include:
1. Royal Oak – This brand offers a variety of lump charcoal options, including hardwood and mesquite. It is known for its consistency and long burn time.
2. Jealous Devil – This premium brand of lump charcoal is made from only the highest quality hardwoods and produces a clean, hot burn that is perfect for smoking.
3. Fogo – Fogo offers several different types of lump charcoal, including oak, hickory, and mesquite. Its charcoal is uniform in size and produces minimal ash.
4. Cowboy – Cowboy lump charcoal is made from natural hardwood and has a unique flavor profile that is perfect for smoking. It is also affordable and widely available.
5. Kamado Joe – This brand offers a variety of lump charcoal options, including Big Block, which is perfect for long smoking sessions. It produces very little ash and has a consistent burn temperature.
Ultimately, the best brand of lump charcoal for smoking will depend on your personal preferences and the type of smoker or grill you are using.
What is the best way to light lump charcoal for smoking?
The best way to light lump charcoal for smoking is to use a chimney starter. A chimney starter is a metal cylinder with a handle that allows you to easily light the charcoal without the use of lighter fluid. To use a chimney starter, simply fill the cylinder with lump charcoal, place a few sheets of newspaper or a paraffin cube in the bottom, and light the paper or cube. The heat from the paper or cube will ignite the charcoal and the chimney effect will draw air through the bottom of the cylinder, causing the charcoal to light quickly and evenly. Once the charcoal is fully lit, carefully pour it into your smoker and allow it to heat up to the desired temperature before adding your meat. Using a chimney starter not only eliminates the need for lighter fluid, which can leave an unpleasant taste on your food, but it also ensures that the charcoal is evenly lit, resulting in consistent heat and smoke for your smoking session.
What is the difference between lump charcoal and briquettes for smoking?
When it comes to smoking, the difference between lump charcoal and briquettes lies in their composition and burning properties. Lump charcoal is made by burning wood in the absence of oxygen, producing natural chunks of charcoal that are then sorted by size. It burns hotter, faster, and produces less ash than briquettes, making it ideal for grilling and smoking food.
On the other hand, briquettes are made from sawdust, wood chips, and other binders that are compressed into uniform shapes. They burn longer and more evenly than lump charcoal, making them better suited for smoking food over a longer period of time. However, they also produce more ash and chemicals, which can affect the flavor of the food.
Ultimately, the choice between lump charcoal and briquettes comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the cook. For those looking for a natural, intense heat source, lump charcoal is the way to go. But for those who need a longer, more consistent burn, briquettes may be the better option.
What is the price range for the best lump charcoal for smoking?
The price range for the best lump charcoal for smoking can vary depending on the brand and quality of the charcoal. Generally, high-quality lump charcoal can range from $20 to $40 for a bag that weighs around 20 pounds. However, some premium brands can cost even more.
It's important to note that the price of the charcoal doesn't necessarily determine its quality. It's always wise to read reviews and do research on the brand before making a purchase.
When it comes to smoking, using high-quality lump charcoal can make a significant difference in the flavor and overall quality of the food. The best lump charcoal for smoking should be made from natural hardwood without any additives or chemicals.
In summary, while the price range for the best lump charcoal for smoking may vary, it's important to prioritize quality over cost to achieve the best results.