An American Story

The history of grilling at Kingsford is a classic American story. It all started in 1919 when Edward G. Kingsford helped Henry Ford procure a stretch of timberland to supply wood for his auto plants.

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Kingsford® Preserve the Pit

Kingsford remains committed to celebrating Black barbecue culture by launching the second year of Preserve the Pit and doubling the investment in aspiring barbecue professionals.

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American Pride

An American-made company founded over 100 years ago, Kingsford has a lot to be proud of. Our employees have been continuing the family tradition in backyards across the nation.

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Learn

How to Start a Charcoal Grill with Lighter Fluid

This method works well to get your charcoal started if you don’t have a charcoal chimney.

What you’ll need

To make the process flow smoothly, be sure to gather everything on the list below before you get started. And as always, use Kingsford® Original Charcoal Briquets for a great grilling experience.

Fuel and Tools

How to Arrange the Charcoal

  • Pile the charcoal into a neat mound or pyramid to increase contact and help the fire grow faster. Use less charcoal for small cooks and more for large cooks.

How to Arrange the Charcoal

How to Add the Lighter Fluid

  • Carefully squirt the lighter fluid on the top and sides of the charcoal mound. Usually you need about a 10-second squirt for a chimney’s worth of charcoal to get proper coverage. To make sure you’re using the right amount, follow your lighter fluid’s directions.
  • Light immediately after applying the fluid. Never squirt lighter fluid onto flaming or hot coals.

How to Add the Lighter Fluid

How to Tell When the Coals Are Ready

  • After the fluid burns off, the edges of the coals will turn gray with ash. When the coals are mostly covered in ash they’re ready to use.
  • Grab your tongs or use a long-handled, metal spatula to spread out the coals.
  • Now you’re ready to cook!

How to Tell When the Coals Are Ready