Updated: July 24, 2025 • 5 min read (enriched version: micro-quiz).

Prepare the cooking area 🌿

Before lighting anything, set up your barbecue on a stable, fireproof surface. Shopping tip: our 🔥 Barbecue & Grill collection is full of grills, heat shields, and ergonomic accessories to set up your outdoor chef's station. Slide a metal plate under the bowl to protect the lawn, and place your mobile work surface right next to it: tongs, brush, thermometer, everything must stay within the perimeter so you never lose sight of the embers. A simple bucket of water or sand completes the incident prevention system.

Taming the burning embers 🔥

Classic charcoal, compact briquettes, or fine wood? Each has its own personality. Charcoal heats quickly and produces an intense aroma; briquettes stabilize the temperature for long cooking times; wood adds a rustic touch but requires patience and supervision. For chemical-free lighting, use natural firelighters or... chips (yes, really!). As soon as the embers are covered in a gray veil, divide them into two zones: high heat for searing, gentle heat for finishing.

Master the cooking point 🍖

The secret to tender meat? Patience and precision. First, sear your steak on the hot zone to create a caramelized crust, then slide it onto the mild zone until it reaches the target temperature. A probe thermometer is your best friend: 54°C for a rare prime rib, 62°C for juicy poultry. For delicate fish, place it on a moistened cedar plank; it will cook gently while absorbing a woody aroma. Fans of vegetable grills? Get inspired by our 5 vegetarian barbecue recipes and master cooking vegetables like a pro.

Enhance smoky aromas 🌸

Fresh herbs, aromatic shavings, homemade marinades: the art of flavoring knows no bounds. Throw a bunch of rosemary directly onto the embers for a Provençal aroma, or enclose moist applewood shavings in a perforated foil bag for a sweet smoke that's perfect for ribs. For reading, the best-selling Weber Barbecue Bible explains how to combine wood, herbs, and spices without ever masking the flavor of the grill.

Ensure safety around the fire ⛑️

Barbecues are a celebration, but caution is king when it comes to embers. Clear a 30 cm perimeter around the fire pit to avoid accidents with children or pets. Wear fireproof gloves when handling the grill and keep any flammable aerosols (spray oil, insecticide) away. When the evening is over, close the air vents and lower the lid; the embers will go out smoothly. The next day, drown the ashes and then seal them in a metal container.

Little tips from a nomadic chef ✨

• Work surface on wheels : move your spices and dishes without taking your eyes off the embers.
• Iced herbs : Freeze thyme sprigs in lemon water; toss two ice cubes onto the coals for an instant fragrant cloud.
• Quick sauce : whipped Greek yogurt, lemon zest, candied garlic and chopped coriander; freshness guaranteed.
• Crusty bread : Brush a baguette with garlic butter, wrap it in baking paper, and heat on the indirect side for 10 minutes.

Summer micro-quiz

Frequently Asked Questions

Coal or briquettes: which to choose?

Charcoal heats quickly and produces a deep, smoky flavor; briquettes provide a stable temperature over time. For 6-hour pulled pork, opt for briquettes!

How to avoid fat flare-ups?

Let the marinated meat rest so that the excess oil drains, then begin cooking on the indirect side. Close the lid to smother the flames.

What to do with the ashes?

Once completely cooled, sift them: the fine powder enriches the compost with potash; the large pieces become an excellent natural weedkiller for paths.

The final word 🎉

With a well-prepared area, tamed embers, and expertly orchestrated aromas, your barbecue will become the setting for the most beautiful summer meals. Put on your gloves, get out the skewers, and share these tips with your friends to set summer evenings ablaze without a hitch. Happy grilling and happy eating! 🔥🍢

↑ Back to top