Charcoal briquettes are often associated with outdoor grilling, but their versatility extends far beyond that. From adding a smoky flavor to drinks and desserts to creating unique dishes, charcoal briquettes can be used in various creative ways in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore some innovative recipes that showcase the diverse culinary applications of charcoal briquettes.
1. Charcoal-Infused Cocktails:
– Charcoal-Filtered Vodka Lemonade:
Add a charcoal briquette to a pitcher of freshly squeezed lemonade and vodka. Let it sit for an hour to infuse the flavors, then remove the briquette before serving over ice.
– Smoked Old Fashioned:
Place a charcoal briquette in a smoking gun with your favorite whiskey, orange peel, and bitters. Smoke the mixture for a few minutes, then strain into a glass with ice.
2. Charcoal-Grilled Desserts:
– Charcoal-Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar:
Skewer pineapple chunks and grill them over charcoal briquettes until caramelized. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet and smoky treat.
– Charcoal-Baked Apples:
Core apples and stuff them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Wrap each apple in foil and bake them in a charcoal grill until tender.
3. Charcoal-Infused Dishes:
– Charcoal-Grilled Pizza:
Roll out pizza dough and grill it over charcoal briquettes until it begins to puff up. Flip the dough and add your favorite toppings before grilling until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– Charcoal-Smoked Cheese:
Place a block of your favorite cheese on a grill-safe dish and cover it with a dome. Place a charcoal briquette on the grill and let it smoke for a few minutes. Remove the cheese and serve with crackers.
These recipes showcase the creativity and versatility of charcoal briquettes in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to add a smoky flavor to your cocktails or experiment with charcoal-infused desserts, there are plenty of innovative ways to incorporate charcoal briquettes into your cooking routine.
