Category: Grilling

According to a 2023 report by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, charcoal grills are owned by over 60% of grillers in the U.S., making them a widely available tool to achieve smoky flavor. For those without a dedicated appliance, understanding what can be used in place of a smoker can unlock a world of BBQ possibilities using equipment you likely already own.

While timings can vary based on method and conditions, heat beads typically take 30–40 minutes to be ready for cooking, especially when using a chimney starter. Knowing the visual cues is more reliable than using a timer to determine exactly how long does it take for heat beads to work.