Charcoal is a lightweight, black substance produced by heating organic materials, like wood, in the absence of oxygen. It is primarily composed of carbon and has a high surface area, making it an excellent adsorbent. Charcoal has been used for centuries for various purposes, including cooking, heating, and medicinal applications.
The “best charcoal” is typically made from hardwoods, such as oak or maple, and undergoes a high-temperature carbonization process. This process results in a charcoal with a high carbon content and low ash content, making it ideal for burning at high temperatures. High-quality charcoal burns cleanly and produces minimal smoke, making it a preferred choice for grilling and barbecuing.