Gift Guide 2015: Where There's Smoke

When binchotan charcoal first came on the market it had a cult following -  and cost a fortune.  The Asian charcoal is very popular with grill masters because it's long burning and gives off very little ash. The Japanese credit it with all manner of beneficial characteristics: they even believe it filters the air that you breathe.

Andy Ricker, of PokPok, began importing Thaan charcoal last year. It's the Thai version of binchotan, although it's a lot less expensive. And also easier to find; at the moment you can buy a five pound box on Amazon for $15. An easy gift that would make any griller grateful.