how to cook baked potato on charcoal grill

3 min read 02-02-2025

how to cook baked potato on charcoal grill

Meta Description: Learn how to cook the perfect baked potato on your charcoal grill! This complete guide covers everything from selecting the right potatoes to achieving that crispy skin and fluffy inside. Get ready for delicious, smoky flavor in minutes!

Grilling is usually associated with burgers, steaks and kebabs. However, a charcoal grill can also be used to cook a fantastic baked potato. The result is a potato with a crispy, smoky skin and a fluffy inside. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step.

Choosing Your Potatoes

The first step to a great baked potato is selecting the right spuds. Russet potatoes are ideal because of their high starch content. This creates that signature fluffy texture when baked. Look for potatoes that are firm to the touch, without any bruises or soft spots. Avoid potatoes with green spots, which indicate solanine buildup and a bitter taste.

Preparing the Potatoes for Grilling

Washing and Scrubbing: Before you start, thoroughly wash the potatoes under cold water. Use a vegetable brush to scrub away any dirt or debris.

Pricking the Potatoes: Use a fork to prick the potatoes all over. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from exploding on the grill.

Grilling the Baked Potatoes

Building Your Charcoal Bed: Create a medium-hot charcoal bed. You want consistent heat, not scorching flames. Distribute the coals evenly across the bottom of your grill.

Indirect Heat is Key: Unlike grilling most meats, you'll cook baked potatoes using indirect heat. This prevents burning while ensuring even cooking. Position the potatoes on the unlit side of the grill grate. If your grill has a lid, use it to retain heat and promote even cooking.

Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your potatoes and the heat of your grill, cooking time can vary. A medium-sized potato will usually take 45-60 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should easily pierce the center.

Turning the Potatoes: For even cooking, turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time.

Achieving Perfectly Crispy Skin

To get that extra crispy skin, you can try one of the following methods:

Oil and Seasoning: Brush the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter before grilling. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. This adds flavour and helps crisp the skin.
Foil Wrap: Wrap the potatoes tightly in foil before grilling. This helps retain moisture and steam, resulting in a fluffy interior. Unwrap during the last 15-20 minutes to crisp the skin.

Serving Your Grilled Baked Potatoes

Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before handling. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, or chili.

FAQs about Grilling Baked Potatoes

How do I know when my baked potato is done?

Insert a fork into the center of the potato. It should go in easily. If there's still resistance, it needs more time.

Can I cook baked potatoes directly on the coals?

While possible, this runs a high risk of burning the potatoes before the inside is cooked through. Indirect heat is always recommended.

What are some good toppings for grilled baked potatoes?

The options are endless! Some popular choices include butter, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, cheese, chili, broccoli, and various herbs. Get creative and experiment!

Can I use a gas grill to cook baked potatoes?

Yes, you can. However, achieving the same smoky flavor as with charcoal will be difficult. Use indirect heat and follow the same cooking time guidelines.

Conclusion

Grilling a baked potato on a charcoal grill is a simple yet rewarding process. By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious, smoky, and perfectly cooked potato every time. Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your favorite combination. Enjoy!