Briquettes are formed from compressed sawdust or wood chips, while wood chips are simply small pieces of wood. Briquettes generally burn longer and hotter than wood chips, making them ideal for longer cooking sessions or when you need to maintain a consistent temperature. Wood chips are cheaper and faster to ignite, making them a good choice for quick grilling or smoking.
The best charcoal briquettes for you will depend on your cooking style and needs. Competition-grade briquettes are made from high-quality hardwood and burn hotter and longer than regular briquettes. If you're looking for a consistent burn and high heat, competition-grade briquettes are a good choice. Regular briquettes are less expensive and still produce good heat.
Wood chips can be used to add flavor to your grilled or smoked foods. To use wood chips, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain them. Place the soaked wood chips in a smoker box or directly on the coals. The wood chips will release smoke that will flavor your food as it cooks
To maintain the quality of your charcoal briquettes and wood chips, store them in a dry, cool place. Keep them in their original packaging to protect them from moisture and pests. If you store your briquettes and wood chips properly, they can last for several months
