What indicates a "clean burn" when grilling?

A "clean burn" during grilling is characterized by minimal smoke and no excessive flare-ups. This indicates that the fuel is being burned efficiently, allowing the combustion process to produce less unburned material, which in turn minimizes the development of smoke and harmful byproducts. A clean burn is essential for achieving optimal flavors in grilled food, as it prevents the accumulation of soot or ash that can negatively affect both taste and health.

When grilling, having minimal smoke signifies that the fats and oils are vaporizing at a consistent rate without producing excessive droplets that contribute to flare-ups. Excessive flare-ups can lead to burning and charring of the food, which is not ideal for flavor production. A clean burn allows for better temperature control and more consistent cooking results, making this a key indicator of effective and safe grilling practices.