For outdoor grilling and smoking enthusiasts, the quality of your charcoal directly impacts the flavor, temperature control, and overall success of your cookout. A common pain point is inconsistent heat, excessive ash, and short burn times from inferior charcoal products. This often leads to frustrating experiences and less-than-perfect barbecue.
The Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs aims to solve these issues by providing a premium, all-natural hardwood charcoal designed for superior performance. Our Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal review for 2026 delves into its features, benefits, and how it stands out in the crowded market of Grills fuel.
This review will cover the specifications, strengths, and potential weaknesses of the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs. Based on manufacturer specs and aggregated user feedback, we will explore its performance in various grilling scenarios and discuss its suitability for different users. We compare it against Kamado Joe Pure Paraffin Fire Starters, 24-count, Big Green Egg All Natural Hickory & Oak Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb, and Oklahoma Joe’s Hardwood Lump Charcoal, 8.8 lb Bag to help you make an informed decision for your next outdoor cooking adventure. For more options in charcoal grilling, check out our guide to the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill Review 2026.
Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs
Our Verdict
Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs is a premium choice for grilling and smoking, crafted from dense quebracho blanco hardwood. It offers exceptional heat output, long burn times, and minimal ash production, making it ideal for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking.
- Burns hotter and longer with consistent heat output
- Reaches over 1100°F for searing
- 4+ hour open burn or 20+ hour low oxygen burn time
- Produces minimal ash for less grill maintenance
- Requires 25% to 40% less wood for low temperature smoking
- Waterproof and dustproof resealable poly bag
- Higher initial cost compared to standard charcoal
- Quebracho blanco hardwood might impart a specific flavor profile not preferred by all
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Spec | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Wood | Weight | 35 pounds |
In-Depth Review
Dense Hardwood Performance and Heat Output
The core of the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs’s performance lies in its use of dense South American quebracho blanco hardwood. This specific wood type is renowned for burning hotter and longer than many standard lump charcoals. Users report consistent heat output, which is crucial for maintaining precise temperatures during grilling and smoking. The ability to reach over 1100°F makes it exceptional for searing, locking in juices and flavors quickly. This high heat capability translates to reduced wood consumption, meaning you’ll use less charcoal to achieve your desired cooking results, offering efficiency in the long run.
Extended Burn Times for Versatile Cooking
One of the most impressive features of this charcoal is its burn time. According to the manufacturer, it delivers 4+ hours of open burn or an astonishing 20+ hours of low oxygen burn time. This extended duration is a game-changer for serious barbecue enthusiasts, allowing for long, slow cooks like smoking brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder without the constant need to replenish charcoal. This reliability ensures a steady temperature environment, which is vital for tender and flavorful results in ceramic cookers, kamado grills, and offset smokers.
Low Ash and Clean Burning Characteristics
Producing minimal ash is a significant advantage of the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs. Less ash means less grill maintenance and improved airflow control throughout your cook. The clean-burning nature of this charcoal also means it resists sparks and popping embers, providing a safer grilling experience. Furthermore, it’s free from harsh smoke, chemicals, fillers, or additives, ensuring that only the pure, natural flavor of your food comes through, without any chemical aftertaste. This clean burn contributes to a better overall grilling environment and taste.
Efficiency for Low and Slow Smoking
For those who prefer low-temperature smoking, the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs offers efficient performance. It requires 25% to 40% less wood compared to other charcoals, making it an economical choice for extended smoking sessions. Its consistent heat output is particularly beneficial for maintaining steady temperatures in kamado grills, charcoal grills, offset smokers, and ceramic cookers, which are often used for delicate, long-duration smoking. This efficiency not only saves on charcoal but also simplifies temperature management, allowing you to focus on the food.
Convenient Resealable Packaging
The practicality extends to its packaging. The charcoal comes in a waterproof and dustproof poly bag with a resealable top and an integrated carry handle. This thoughtful design ensures secure storage, easy transport, and protection from moisture between outdoor grilling sessions. Keeping charcoal dry is essential for optimal performance, and this resealable bag helps maintain the quality of the product over time. For other great grilling accessories, check out our review of Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle Review 2026.
How It Compares
Quick Comparison: Alternatives
- – Exceptional heat output and long burn times for versatile cooking.
- – Low ash production leads to easier cleanup and improved grill maintenance.
- – 100% natural hardwood with no unwanted chemicals or fillers.
- – Provides a quick and clean start for charcoal.
- – Odorless and smokeless, preventing unwanted flavors.
- – Reliable ignition even in damp conditions.
- – Delivers superior, all-natural wood flavor to grilled dishes.
- – Quick and easy to light, ready for use in minutes.
- – Environmentally responsible sourcing from FSC-certified forests.
- – Made from 100% natural hardwood for pure flavor.
- – Burns cleaner with no limestone or starch fillers.
- – Lights quickly and reaches high temperatures efficiently.
- – Extra-large lump size may require breaking for some grill types.
- – May take slightly longer to light compared to charcoal with smaller pieces.
- – Specific to fire starting, not for general fuel.
- – May require storage in a dry place despite being able to light when wet.
- – Higher price point compared to standard briquette charcoal.
- – May produce more ash than some briquette alternatives.
- – Specific flavor profile (hickory/oak) might not suit all preferences.
- – Bag size may be small for frequent or large-scale grilling.
- – Requires separate fire starters for quick ignition.
Head-to-Head: How Does It Stack Up?
When comparing the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs to the Kamado Joe Pure Paraffin Fire Starters, 24-count (a Competitor), it’s important to note their distinct roles. The Jealous Devil charcoal is the primary fuel source, providing high heat and long burn times for cooking, while the Kamado Joe product is specifically designed for easy ignition. While Jealous Devil ensures a prolonged and consistent cooking experience with minimal ash, the Kamado Joe fire starters offer an odorless and smokeless way to get your charcoal lit quickly, even when wet. If your priority is a premium, long-burning fuel for extensive cooks, Jealous Devil is the clear choice. However, if you’re looking for a reliable and clean ignition method, the Kamado Joe fire starters are an excellent complement.
Against the Big Green Egg All Natural Hickory & Oak Lump Charcoal 17.6 lb (a Competitor), the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs offers a significantly larger bag size, providing more fuel for extended use. While both are all-natural lump charcoals, Jealous Devil’s quebracho blanco hardwood is known for its incredibly dense structure, leading to higher heat and longer burn times (4+ hours open burn vs. Big Green Egg’s 10 minutes to light, which doesn’t specify burn time but implies a focus on quick ignition rather than sustained heat). The Big Green Egg charcoal emphasizes a great all-natural flavor from hickory and oak, sourced from FSC-certified forests, which might appeal to users seeking a specific smoky profile. For maximum heat, efficiency, and burn duration, Jealous Devil holds an advantage, whereas Big Green Egg might be preferred by those prioritizing the specific flavor of hickory and oak and who are comfortable with a smaller bag.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Hardwood Lump Charcoal, 8.8 lb Bag (a Competitor) is another all-natural lump charcoal option. While Oklahoma Joe’s highlights its 100% natural hardwood with no additives or fillers, burning cleaner for real smoke flavor, the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs distinguishes itself with its denser quebracho blanco hardwood. This density contributes to Jealous Devil’s ability to reach over 1100°F and deliver significantly longer burn times (4+ hours open burn or 20+ hours low oxygen burn) compared to the unspecified burn time of Oklahoma Joe’s. Oklahoma Joe’s is available in a smaller 8.8-pound bag, making it a potentially more accessible option for casual grillers or those with less storage. Users seeking superior heat output, extended burn duration, and reduced charcoal consumption for serious grilling and smoking will find Jealous Devil more aligned with their needs. For more great grilling options, explore our The 7 Best 4 Burner Grill of 2026.
Is It Right for You?
Best For
- Grillers and smokers who prioritize long burn times, needing 4+ hours for open grilling or over 20 hours for low-oxygen smoking.
- Users seeking high heat output for searing, as it reaches over 1100°F.
- Individuals looking for a clean-burning charcoal that produces minimal ash, reducing grill maintenance.
- Those who value efficiency and want to use 25% to 40% less wood for low-temperature smoking.
Consider Something Else If…
- You are on a very strict budget and looking for the lowest-cost charcoal option, as premium lump charcoals can have a higher initial cost.
- You prefer a very mild or specific smoky flavor profile that quebracho blanco hardwood might not provide.
- You only grill occasionally and for short durations, as the extended burn time might be overkill for your needs. For simpler grilling setups, you might consider something like the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill Review 2026.
Final Verdict
The Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs stands out as a premium fuel choice for serious grilling and smoking enthusiasts. Its key strengths lie in its dense quebracho blanco hardwood, delivering exceptional heat output exceeding 1100°F and impressively long burn times, up to 4+ hours for open grilling and over 20 hours for low-oxygen smoking. This translates to efficient performance, requiring significantly less charcoal for extended cooks, and a clean burn that minimizes ash and eliminates unwanted chemicals or fillers.
While its initial cost might be higher than some standard charcoals, this is a trade-off for its superior performance and efficiency. Some users might also find the flavor profile imparted by quebracho blanco hardwood to be distinct, which may not align with everyone’s preference. However, these are minor considerations given the overall benefits it offers.
Ultimately, if you’re an avid griller or smoker who demands consistent high heat, prolonged burn times, and a clean, natural cooking experience, the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal, 35 lbs is an excellent investment. It’s ideal for those who frequently undertake long, low-and-slow cooks or high-temperature searing, offering a reliable and efficient fuel source that outperforms many alternatives on the market.
View on Amazon.comFrequently Asked Questions
What kind of wood is Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal made from?
Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal is crafted from dense South American quebracho blanco hardwood. This specific wood is known for its high density, which contributes to its superior heat output and long burn times.
How long does Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal burn?
This lump charcoal offers impressive burn times, delivering 4+ hours for open grilling and over 20 hours for low oxygen smoking. This makes it suitable for both quick searing and extended low-and-slow cooks.
Does this charcoal produce a lot of ash?
No, Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal is designed to produce minimal ash. This characteristic helps in reducing grill maintenance and improving airflow control during cooking sessions.
Is Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal suitable for kamado grills?
Yes, it is highly efficient for maintaining steady heat in kamado grills, charcoal grills, offset smokers, and ceramic cookers. Its long burn time and consistent heat output are ideal for these types of cooking setups.
Does the packaging protect the charcoal from moisture?
Yes, the Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal comes in a waterproof and dustproof poly bag with a resealable top and integrated carry handle, designed to protect the charcoal from moisture between uses.
Browse All Models
Pros
- Provides a quick and clean start for charcoal
- Odorless and smokeless, preventing unwanted flavors
- Reliable ignition even in damp conditions
- Safer and more eco-friendly than traditional lighter fluid
- Compatible with all charcoal grills and fireplaces
Cons
- Specific to fire starting, not for general fuel
- May require storage in a dry place despite being able to light when wet
The Kamado Joe Pure Paraffin Fire Starters are an essential accessory for any grilling enthusiast, particularly those who value a clean and efficient start to their kamado cooking. These all-natural, odorless wax cubes are specifically designed to eliminate the common pitfalls of traditional fire starting methods, such as chemical aftertastes and unpleasant odors. They offer a premium solution for igniting charcoal grills and fireplaces with ease.
What sets these fire starters apart is their pure paraffin composition, ensuring a clean and consistent burn that reaches up to 1300 degrees Fahrenheit. This powerful heat generation means your charcoal will be ready quickly, without the need for lighter fluid, which can often impart unwanted flavors to your food. Their ability to light even when wet adds a layer of reliability, making them a dependable choice regardless of minor environmental dampness.
Designed for all Kamado Joe grills, these fire starters are also universally compatible with any charcoal grill or fireplace, making them a versatile tool for various outdoor and indoor fire-starting needs. They are an ideal replacement for lighter fluid, promoting a more eco-friendly and safer grilling experience by preventing flare-ups and chemical residues. For those seeking a hassle-free, clean, and effective way to get their fire going, these 24-count paraffin cubes are an excellent investment.
Pros
- Exceptional heat output and long burn times for versatile cooking
- Low ash production leads to easier cleanup and improved grill maintenance
- 100% natural hardwood with no unwanted chemicals or fillers
- Efficient for low and slow smoking, requiring less fuel
- Resists sparks and popping embers for a safer grilling experience
Cons
- Extra-large lump size may require breaking for some grill types
- May take slightly longer to light compared to charcoal with smaller pieces
The Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal stands out as a premium choice for serious grillers and smokers. Crafted from incredibly dense South American quebracho blanco hardwood, this charcoal is engineered for exceptional performance. It promises and delivers high heat, reaching over 1100°F for searing, and impressive burn times, offering 4+ hours in open air or over 20 hours for low-and-slow smoking. This versatility makes it a go-to for everything from quick weeknight burgers to all-day brisket cooks.
One of the most significant advantages of Jealous Devil Chunx XL is its clean-burning nature. It produces minimal ash, which not only simplifies cleanup but also helps maintain consistent airflow and temperature control in your grill or smoker. The absence of chemicals, fillers, or additives ensures that your food is infused with a pure, natural wood flavor without any unwanted aftertaste. Its dense composition also means greater efficiency, often requiring 25% to 40% less charcoal for low-temperature smoking, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
While the extra-large lump size contributes to its long burn and consistent heat, some users might find it necessary to break down larger pieces to fit smaller grills or for specific cooking needs. However, this minor inconvenience is easily managed and often outweighed by the superior performance. The waterproof, dust-proof, and resealable poly bag with an integrated carry handle is a thoughtful touch, ensuring the charcoal remains dry and protected between uses. For backyard enthusiasts and competition BBQ teams alike, Jealous Devil Chunx XL Lump Charcoal offers a dependable, high-quality fuel source that elevates any outdoor cooking experience.
Pros
- Delivers superior, all-natural wood flavor to grilled dishes
- Quick and easy to light, ready for use in minutes
- Environmentally responsible sourcing from FSC-certified forests
- Leaves no chemical aftertaste, ensuring pure food flavor
- Generous 17.6 lb bag provides good value and usage
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard briquette charcoal
- May produce more ash than some briquette alternatives
- Specific flavor profile (hickory/oak) might not suit all preferences
The Big Green Egg All Natural Hickory and Oak Lump Charcoal stands out as a premium fuel choice for grilling enthusiasts who prioritize authentic flavor. Crafted from 100% natural, organic oak and hickory wood, this charcoal infuses food with a rich, smoky taste that many find superior to standard briquettes. The absence of chemical additives means you'll experience a clean, unadulterated flavor profile with every cook.
One of the key advantages of this lump charcoal is its efficiency. It's designed to light quickly, becoming ready for grilling in approximately 10 minutes, which is a significant time-saver for spontaneous cookouts. The sourcing from FSC-certified forests also highlights Big Green Egg's commitment to environmental responsibility, a factor increasingly important to consumers.
While this charcoal delivers exceptional performance and flavor, it does come with a higher price tag than many conventional charcoal options. Users might also notice a difference in ash production compared to briquettes. However, for those invested in their grilling experience and seeking to elevate the taste of their food, the Big Green Egg lump charcoal is a worthwhile investment. Its robust flavor and quick lighting make it an excellent choice for a variety of grilling applications.
Pros
- Made from 100% natural hardwood for pure flavor
- Burns cleaner with no limestone or starch fillers
- Lights quickly and reaches high temperatures efficiently
- Imparts an authentic smoky taste to food
- Suitable for different grilling methods
Cons
- Bag size may be small for frequent or large-scale grilling
- Requires separate fire starters for quick ignition
The Oklahoma Joe's Hardwood Lump Charcoal offers an authentic grilling experience for those who prioritize natural flavor and a clean burn. Made entirely from 100% natural hardwood, this charcoal contains no additives, fillers, limestone, or starch, ensuring that only the rich, smoky essence of the wood infuses your food.
This lump charcoal is designed for efficiency, with pieces in varying shapes and sizes that allow it to light easily and burn hot and fast. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for quick searing, like achieving a perfect crust on New York strip steaks, or for cooking everyday items such as burgers and chicken wings with that classic chargrilled taste. Its ability to retain the originating hardwood's flavor and smoke qualities is a significant advantage for any grill master.
Packaged in an 8.8-pound bag and produced in the USA, this charcoal is a reliable fuel source for various grilling setups. Whether you prefer to stack it high in a charcoal basket, layer it for indirect cooking, or snake it around the bottom of your grill for longer cooks, Oklahoma Joe's Hardwood Lump Charcoal provides a consistent and flavorful heat. While it requires a separate fire starter for optimal ignition, its performance in delivering a superior smoky distinction makes it a worthwhile investment for enhancing your outdoor cooking.
Pros
- Delivers rich, pure smoky flavor without chemicals or additives
- Offers consistent, long-lasting heat for even cooking
- Low ash production ensures cleaner grilling and easier maintenance
- Quick and easy to light, compatible with various starters
- Suitable for a wide range of cooking methods and grill types, including kamado and Ooni pizza ovens
Cons
- Only available in an 8 lb bag, which might be small for frequent large-scale use
- Premium product, potentially higher price point than briquettes
- No specific information on the blend of hardwoods used, which some grillers prefer to know
The Mr. Bar-B-Q All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal is designed to elevate your outdoor cooking with its premium, 100% natural hardwood blend. This 8 lb bag promises a clean, hot, and flavorful burn, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their grilling, smoking, or BBQ cooking experience. Unlike standard briquettes, this lump charcoal is free from chemicals and additives, ensuring that the pure, smoky flavor of the wood is imparted directly to your food.
This charcoal stands out for its efficiency and performance. It's crafted to burn hotter and longer, providing consistent heat ideal for everything from high-heat searing of steaks to slow-smoking ribs. The low ash production is a significant benefit, leading to less mess and easier cleanup after your cookout. Furthermore, its ability to reduce flare-ups and popping contributes to a smoother and more controlled grilling session.
Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a passionate BBQ enthusiast, this Mr. Bar-B-Q lump charcoal offers versatility. It's suitable for a wide array of cooking setups, including traditional charcoal grills, portable grills, kamado cookers, and even Ooni pizza ovens. Its quick and easy lighting capability ensures you can get your grill fired up in no time, making it convenient for spontaneous backyard barbecues or planned outdoor feasts.
While the 8 lb bag is convenient for many, those who grill frequently or host larger gatherings might find themselves needing to restock often. However, for its quality, consistent performance, and the authentic smoky flavor it delivers, Mr. Bar-B-Q All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal remains a top-tier choice for achieving exceptional outdoor culinary results.
