How to Grill a Steak Over Charcoal Using Indirect Grilling Methods
You finally did it. You bought a charcoal barbecue kettle grill. But how do you cook steak over it? There are two main ways to cook a steak using a charcoal grill. Indirect grilling utilizes charcoal in the same way as when you smoke or roast, beginning the steak over the cool side of the barbecue and cooking it a little slower, then finishing it with a sear. This leads to succulent and perfectly cooked meat that can be enhanced with the addition of wood smoke. Find out more about getting the most out of your charcoal BBQ as you learn How to Grill a Steak Over Charcoal Using Indirect Grilling Methods.
How to Grill a Steak Over Charcoal Using Indirect Grilling Methods
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- 2 steaks, cut at least 1.5 inches (4 cm) thick
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional smoking wood
Indirect Grilling Method:
- Salt the steaks on all sides and place them on a rack over a plate or board. Allow them to sit for at least 40 minutes before beginning to cook.
- Prepare the charcoal kettle grill by lighting a full load of charcoal. While waiting for the charcoal to ash over, lower the cooking grids to a lower position to get closer to where you will be putting the coals. Dump the charcoal into a pile on one side of the barbecue. Preheat the grill to medium-low 275°F (135°C), opening the bottom vents one or two notches to keep the fire low.
- Pat the steak dry and season with the freshly ground black pepper as desired.
- Place the steaks on the cool side of the barbecue, away from the charcoal, using a digital meat thermometer to monitor the steaks. You are aiming for a temperature of about 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit from your desired finished temperature. Because you are slowly cooking them, this is the ideal time to add smoke. Toss your favorite wood into the coals while the steaks are slowly cooking.
- Once the steaks hit 10 degrees from finished, move them directly over the coals and sear for 60 seconds, turn the steak 45 degrees, and continue to cook for an additional 60 seconds. Flip the steak and repeat. Don’t forget to sear the edges as well.
- Rest the steaks for at least 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Now that you know How to Grill a Steak Over Charcoal Using Indirect Grilling Methods, will you be trying it? What method of grilling a steak is your favorite and how do you jazz it up when serving your steaks? Share your favorite charcoal barbecued steak recipes, ideas, and photos on our social pages like Facebook and TikTok, using the hashtags #NapoleonEats and #NapoleonGrill.
Happy Grilling!
Season the steak at least 40 minutes before cooking for the best sear and flavor
Prepare the charcoal
Grill the steak using indirect heat, optionally add some smoke wood to the coals
Check the temperature using an instant-read thermometer
Once 10-or so degrees from perfectly finished, sear directly over the coals
Rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving
Serve with your favorite seasonal sides
I used to be the Sultana of Sizzle, but you can call me Andrea. I have always been passionate about food. Even though I was majoring in Art and Graphic Design, I would frequently be found cooking for my friends and family.
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Season the steak at least 40 minutes before cooking for the best sear and flavor
Prepare the charcoal
Grill the steak using indirect heat, optionally add some smoke wood to the coals
Check the temperature using an instant-read thermometer
Once 10-or so degrees from perfectly finished, sear directly over the coals
Rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving
Serve with your favorite seasonal sides
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