Questions on the Minion Method

[yooper in wi]

Until I joined this sight I had never heard of the minion method. Now that I've been searching and reading information here, I have somewhat of an idea as to what it is, but still have some questions.

1) Can anyone explain what the principle of this method is, and how this works to our advantage?

2) I've seen some pictures showing a basket filled with lump charcoal that is separated by staggered metal plates. Can someone explain this, and how does one go about lighting it? Light one end and let the burn snake it's way through the fuel?

TIA for any information.

Ron

 

[Rings Я Us]

IMG_20170701_140348.jpg

• Rings Я Us
• Jul 27, 2017

Minion. The few hot coals eventually igniting the ones below and off to the sides.. slowly but surely. Lasting a little longer than all pre lit coals and wood pieces.

 

[Rings Я Us]

Also top down method .. toss a bunch of lit coals on top of a bunch of unlit ones.. burns top down. [emoji]127866[/emoji]

 

[Rings Я Us]

If you don't have very good air circulation in your smoker, the coals in minion method may not all lite up good. They rely on touching each other and air to help them all ignite

 

[Rings Я Us]

Some patterns like rows of charcoal and snakes of touching coals can slowly ignite and last longer than and less hot than a big pile of already lit up coals.. it helps keep fire temperatures keep lower and longer burning.

 

[Rings Я Us]

You can buy the trays that help line up your coals or pellets and chips.. depends on what type of cooking you want to do that day..