use of lighter fluid

jackflash

I know this is a basic question, but I need to know if use of charcoal lighter fluid damages the Big Green Egg in any way? I'd appreciate a legitimate and knowledgable response. thank you! jackflash:(

loco_engr

It is not a good idea as the ceramics will absorb the odors of the fluid. Plenty of other options.

Eggsakley

Lighter fluid with it's Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) will absorbe into the ceramic components of the egg leaving an undesireable taste and smell to foods cooked on it. Will it actually damage the Egg, I doubt it, but it will have an adverse effect on flavor and have to be burnt off to remove it's effects of flavor degradation. Many other ways to start the Egg my friend. No reason to use Lighter fluid.

thirdeye

Seriously, even when not cooking in a ceramic cooker.... loose the lighter fluid.

Semolina Pilchard

It is VERBOTEN!!!! Seriously though, it will soak into the ceramics and stink up your egg. There are many other methods, electric starter, Mapp torch, oil and napkin, starter cubes (which in my opinion stinks up the egg also, but many seem to use it with no problem) charcoal chimney, etc.
You said "I'd appreciate a legitimate and knowledgable response." I see this is your first post, so I will assume you are new to this forum. There is not nearly the amount of jerkwads on this forum as there are on other forums you have been on. :laugh: :laugh:

RRP

same goes for using enhanced easy light/firestarter charcoal briquettes brands too - it's best to avoid them too!

TNmike

I have no idea if it will damage the BGE but I just have never liked the left over taste of charcoal lighter fluid, even years before I bought an EGG I had quit using the lighter fluid. Lots of better methods to light a grill, smoker, BGE, or any other cooker than with the lighter fluid. Mike

Doug in Eggmonton

I agree with all above, but would add that if you use 91+ percent alcohol like lighter fluid it works great with no aftertaste. A tablespoon or so in three spots lights the egg quick and clean.

Welcome to the forum.

Doug

PlanoPokes79

oil and napkin....could someone explain this method? I agree on the cubes

dpbarrett

Five sheets of newspaper (probably fewer, but we have plenty and we have an XL so 5 is my standard) with wide open vents bottom and top turns your whole egg into a charcoal chimney. 15 minutes to 500 degrees using Cowboy lump.

And I also agree with others who say fluid is NEVER a good idea.

dpbarrett

Five sheets of newspaper (probably fewer, but we have plenty and we have an XL so 5 is my standard) with wide open vents bottom and top turns your whole egg into a charcoal chimney. 15 minutes to 500 degrees using Cowboy lump.

And I also agree with others who say fluid is NEVER a good idea.

jackflash

Good answers to my question. Thank to you individually and as a group. Good job!

jackflash

jackflash

Intersting reply on 91% alcohol. Thx!
jackflash

jackflash

Helpful answer. Thx,l
jackflash

Semolina Pilchard

Drizzle a little cooking oil on a napkin or paper towel and it works like a starter cube. The key is the right amount of oil. Don't soak it in oil.