Should you keep the lid on your Weber charcoal grill when grilling steaks?

You should generally not keep the lid closed when grilling steaks on a Weber charcoal grill.

Here's why:

* Heat control: Keeping the lid closed traps heat and can make it difficult to control the grilling temperature, especially for steaks which require specific heat levels.

* Steak sear: A good steak sear requires high heat and direct contact with the grill grates. A closed lid creates a less intense heat and will result in a less desirable sear.

* Even cooking: Grilling with the lid open allows you to monitor the steak's progress and rotate it for even cooking. A closed lid can lead to uneven cooking.

Exceptions:

* Indirect grilling: If you are grilling a large, thick steak, you may want to use indirect heat by placing the steak away from the hot coals and close the lid for a longer period.

* Smoking: If you're smoking a steak, you will definitely need to keep the lid closed to maintain the temperature and smoke.

Best practice:

* Start with a hot grill (high heat) and keep the lid open.

* Grill the steak for a short time on each side to create a nice sear.

* Lower the heat and continue grilling with the lid open until the steak reaches your desired doneness.

Remember: The best way to grill a steak is to experiment and find what works best for you. Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking.