How Hot Are Your Coals?

How can I judge how hot the coals in my charcoal grill are?

Cautiously hold your hand 4 inches over the coals. Start counting the number of seconds you can hold your hand in place before the heat forces you to pull away. If you can hold your hand above the fire for no more than 2 seconds, the heat level is "hot" (about 500°).If you can only hold your hand above the coals for 3 seconds, the heat level is "medium-hot" (about 400°).If you can hold your hand above the coals for no more than 4 seconds, the heat level is "medium" (about 350°).If you can hold your hand above the coals for about 5 seconds, the heat level is "low" (about 300°).

View the original article here