Ideal Bite: Uncharred Territory

May 21, 2008 BANG FOR THE BITE These methods take a few more minutes to get your grill going, but avoiding lighter fluid's toxic chems (and toxic taste) is well worth the time. COCKTAIL FACTOID In a survey released in 2006, 63% of 18-24-year-old Americans couldn't ID Iraq on a map of the Middle East. LIKE THIS TIP? Then check out . . . The Gas Grills Tip The Faux Hot Dog Tip RATE THIS TIP How useful is this tip? (5 is the highest) 1 2 3 4 5 Wanna go where few grillers have gone before? The Bite Explore lighter fluid alternatives. As BBQ season heats up, many people are using the nasty stuff to light their coals, but if you haven't already switched to gas, put eco-friendlier (and tastier) ways to light your charcoal on the map. The Benefits Discovering greener grilling. Lighter fluid's made from not-so-eco, nonrenewable petroleum distillates that let off volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and contribute to unhealthy, ground-level ozone pollution. A key to healthier 'cuing. Those VOCs can cause everything from headaches to cancer. No gnarly lighter-fluid taste. Personally Speaking Toshio misses the tri-weekly BBQs he had when he lived in Portland and had a big backyard. The concrete slab behind his SF flat (just big enough for the recycle bin and trash can) doesn't quite measure up. Wanna Try? Char-Broil Charcoal Starter Wand - just plug in this fire-starter and stick it under your coals for about 10 minutes ($18). Weber Chimney Starter - put your briquettes inside, and light some newspaper below to get grilling ($15). Cowboy Charcoal - charcoal made in the United States from maple and oak scraps ($20/20 pounds). Virtual Weber Bullet - easy-does-it guide to using a chimney starter.      Sponsor

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