A summer without a proper grilling session with your family is a summer wasted and to uplift your grilling experience, kamado grills have been a very popular choice among grilling connoisseurs, especially for residential outdoor bbq sessions. Starting from searing to baking to smoking, kamado grills have been a market leader in terms of their versatility. Fueled by charcoal, these hybrid grills are a modernized version of the earthenware cooking ovens of China and India.
Are you taking an interest in getting your hands on these giant egg-shaped grills? If you are, then let me be your guide in the hunt for the best kamado grills the market has to offer you as I have listed some of the top ones for your convenience!List of The 10 Best Kamado Grill
1. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill
The first pick in our entry is the classic Akorn kamado grill from a very popular brand called the Char-Griller with a model number E16620.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Offered in three attractive colors- Blue, Graphite, and Red, the kamado-style grill is effective in adding aesthetic value to your patio or decking and does not take up space with a not-so-appealing looking block of metal.
Commendable Functionality,
Fortunately, it is not just eye-candy but is highly functional. It can be ideally doubled as a BBQ grill and smoker. Being perfect for both high-temperature grilling and low and slow cooking. The triple-walled insulated stainless steel build with cast iron cooking grates does not only make it lightweight but allows greater ease at controlling the temperature and supports a wide temperature range starting from 200 degrees Fahrenheit for smoking purposes to 700 degrees Fahrenheit for searing steaks. The indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer are responsible for inherently easy heat level control.
Spacious Cooking Area
Given how compact and lightweight a unit this is, you will be amazed at the large cooking area that it offers. Featuring a 20-inch cooking diameter with a 447 square inch space for cooking, you can cook up to 27 burgers at one go. This helps you serve a larger bunch at once without having to repeat the grilling over and over again.
Incredible Features
The strong build and versatility are complemented with other side features which deserve appreciation. The unit is mounted on a steel cart that has wheels which makes portability super easy. The caster wheels also come with safety locks which help the unit stay in place when in operation or even while storing for the greater convenience of use. Moreover, the easy dump ash pan makes the cleaning of the grill effortless. Other features like its locking lid that makes it super safe, removable warming rack that allows you to serve right away, and bottom storage shelf make this grill a top choice among the grillers.
Not only that but the foldable side shelf workstations come with BBQ tool storage hooks. What more could you ask for?
Budget-Friendly
While other kamado grills cost you within a range of $800 - $1000 (yes, kamado grills can be expensive!)Akorn Char-Griller will be at your home with you spending not more than $400 bucks.
However, some reviewers have reported that the cooking temperature and temperature control is not as stable as it claims. Moreover, it is difficult to keep the fire burning or maintain high temperatures for long which are required for grilling or searing particular types of food.
2. Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II Charcoal Grill
Next up we have the Kamado Charcoal Grill from Kamado Joe in their KJ23RHC Classic Joe II model. Having ‘Kamado’ in its name alone gives you an idea that Kamado Joe is an industry expert when it comes to Kamado Grills. Let us find out why you should go for this one.
Double tier goodness
The 2 tier cooking grill grate helps you “divide & conquer” with its “divide & conquer” flexible cooking system in a half-moon design. The multi-level transformation helps you to cook different types of food in different styles that too in different temperatures. In other words, the kamado grill portrays versatility at its best!
Inherent Control
The temperature control is very convenient in the grill. The vent located at the top allows you to adjust the temperature as per your desire. The vent further helps keep the temperature consistent so that frequent adjustment is not required. The temperature of Classic Joe II ranges from 220 degrees Fahrenheit to 750 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range is enough for any cooking style, be it smoking at low temperatures or searing steaks at high temperatures.
Admirable Construction
The grill features a height of 18 inches that is made of ceramic grill which helps retain heat for longer. The ceramic grill is held together in a cast-iron cart with locking wheels that help you keep your kamado grill in place safely. The advanced multi-panel firebox is constructed using the patent-pending six-piece design that reduces the chance of breakage and gives a boost to grilling efficiency.
The kamado grill features a very lightweight lid with a nifty airlift hinge which allows you to lift the lid without any undue effort. The patented airlift hinge technology used in the grill is effective in reducing its weight by 96%. Moreover, the dual adjustment top vent mentioned earlier resists rain like a champ which makes it suitable for different weather conditions as well. It also helps maintain precise airflow during the opening and closing of the dome.
Breezy Maintenance
The grill features a removable ash catcher which helps keep the grill clean simple. You just need to ditch the waste and replace it. For long-term usage, the only maintenance that this will require is to wash the grates with warm soapy water after you are done using the grill. It is important for you to allow the grates to air dry before you store them.
3. Char-Griller E6520 AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill Cart
We have yet another kamado grill in our review article from Char-Griller with a model number of E6520 AKORN. The difference between the former and this one is that it is a bigger unit and comes with a cart rather than a stand with a larger workstation space.
Functional Grill Cart
Unlike the former one, this triple-walled heavy-duty steel insulated cart-style grill comes with four legs, two out of the four come with padded feet that help it stay in place and the other two legs have wheels that help you move it around. You are required to tilt it towards the wheeled legs to move it around your patio or deck. The 26’’ x 26’’ workstation allows you an ample amount of space to freely work and levels up your grilling game in terms of ease.
Optimal Usage
The dual adjustable dampers allow your grill to maintain an even heat output and offer optimal usage control over the internal temperature. Regardless of whether you are a newbie or a grilling expert, the labeled settings make the control of it much easier. It also provides you with suggestions to determine the ideal vent position for heat output. Moreover, the grill is effective for both low and high-temperature cooking so you can cook food using different cooking styles (smoke/grill/sear) as well.
Large Cooking Grid
Weighing 106 pounds, the kamado grill has a 20-inch diameter with a 314 square-inch cooking surface which is sufficient for grilling 27 standard size burger patties at one go. In other words, you could be feeding 27 people burgers with each batch without having to repeat the grilling process. This cuts down the hassle by a huge margin.
Other Wonderful Features
The cart is a multipurpose package that meets all your grilling requirements. In addition to the two side shelves, there is also another one at the bottom. This place can ideally be used for storing or keeping bags of charcoal or even small trash gathered during grilling sessions. Together with the thick cast iron grates, locking lid and 8 inches wheels, and removable dump ash pan, the cart-style grill is one of a kind. However, it is perceived as a rather pricey option to many customers.
4. VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado Grill
The VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado Grill is an elegant, finely crafted ceramic grill that is potentially giving good competition to other 18-inch kamado grills in the premium-priced market.
Range of colors and sizes
The feature that makes this brand stand out is its diversified product line. You are offered kamado grills in a variety of attractive colors (five other alternatives) and sizes (Large, Large Deluxe, XL plus, and compact) so that you can choose the one that best suits your preferences. But for the convenience of our review and to give you the basic idea of the product, we have chosen the VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado Grill in size Large and color Chili red.
Unique Feature
The feature that we found the most unique in this brand is that in addition to the option for charcoal ignition, it also has an electric starter port which allows easy lighting. So, if you face too much of a hassle while using charcoal to light up your kamado grill, you can simply go for the electric port and you are in an instant!
Durable Build
The kamado grill features a ceramic body that helps it retain heat for longer, making it suitable for day-long BBQ sessions. Other than the body, the cooking grates are made from 304 stainless steel which prevents it from sticking to it and makes flipping food smoother. The cast iron top vent and powder-coated cart are built to last. The brand focuses on maintaining good quality and therefore a heavy-duty cart is designed in such a way so that it does not topple over while you are using it.
Extremely Spacious
The 2 drop-down tables on either side are extremely roomy and allow you plenty of space for making salads or placing your BBQ tools, serving plates, and other condiments and seasonings required next to the grill. In addition to these, the table is slatted which means you can easily drain off rainwater. Not only that but you are offered enough space at the bottom of the cart as well which can be used for storage purposes.
Commendable Cooking Area
As reviewed above, prepping space is no problem with this model. Cooking surface area is not a problem as well! Featuring a space of 604 square inches in total in the 2-tier system, the top tier grates are hinged to the lower level for easy access which in turn is hinged for adding wood blocks and tending charcoal.
Amazing Temperature Control
With clearly marked dual calibrated draft vent dials, you can easily set up the temperatures required for smoking and grilling. The knobs offer you superior and precise temperature control. Moreover, the built-in thermometer lets you check and maintain the temperature of the grill.
Bonus!
This could not get better! Along with all the aforementioned features, you will also be given a bonus with your purchase. A completely natural cooking stone is included in your pack which allows you to bring authentic Italian touch to your homemade pizzas. Not only that but you will also be getting a heavy-duty vinyl cover that you can use to cover your grill when not in use.
Along with the removable ash drawer, wheels that make it portable and easy electric lighting, this kamado grill comes with easy-to-use features.
5. Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Kamado Grill
Broil King is renowned for its heavy-duty kamado grills. Since most ceramic grills have the risk of cracking or breaking, Broil King particularly focuses on the anti-breakage property and builds its grills using lightweight fiberglass encased in powder-coated steel.
Greater portability
Even though this might not be the one for you if you are seeking a massive grill that will let you serve a huge bunch of people at one go as it is a relatively smaller and neat fit for smaller families. However, if you seek portability, this one is just the right one for you. It is extremely handy and is perfect no matter where you are, whether on the roads or in your backyard, this has got your back.
Robust Built
The grill features an insulated double-walled steel body that is capable of high heat retention and keeps moisture locked in for longer compared to ceramic grills. Moreover, a heavy-duty steel body does not pose the risk of absorbing moisture and odors, unlike ceramic. Moreover, the product is backed up by a 10-year warranty on the grill body and a 2-year warranty on other parts of the grill. This gives confidence to the customers so that they can make a worry-free purchase.
Fuel-Efficient
Since the grill features an insulated steel design, a small amount of charcoal goes a long way as the heat stays trapped inside. The heat retention process is further strengthened by an aluminum lower damper, cast iron top damper, and strong gasket. The fuel consumption is far less in this compared to other charcoal grills or smokers so you can cut down your budget on fuel and invest more in food.
Extra Goodies
Who would not like some extra goodies along with their purchase? Unlike most kamado grills, this one from Broil King comes with many accessories that enhance your grilling experience. The accessories include a chrome swing away secondary rack, removable reside side shelves, mobility cart, and a multi-tool set.
Easy Maintenance
Even though the kamado grills do not require any routine maintenance, keeping them clean will help your grill last longer. Unlike the traditional kamado grills which require you to scrape out the ashes, this one does keep the ashes intact in the removable tray which makes disposing of them much easier.
These are made from stainless steel so lifespan and build quality are uppermost.
6. Lifesmart 133" 6-In-1 Kamado Grill
As its name suggests, Lifesmart 133" 6-In-1 Kamado Grill has a lot of versatility to offer. With a cooking grid featuring a 13 inches diameter and 133 square inches of cooking surface, this will surely give a boost to your grilling game.
Stunning Versatility
Being able to hold a good amount of weight the grill allows you to cook a variety of food at one go. And we say a good amount of weight we mean - 4 half-pound burgers, 4 steaks weighing 8 ounces or 2 T-bone steaks weighing 12-16 ounces, and 4 chicken breasts! And guess what? You can use the grill for smoking, grilling, roasting, searing, and even baking. What more could you possibly seek from a grill?
Easy Maneuver
It is not only easy to use but also super easy and quick to assemble. It will take you a few minutes to set it all up once you have taken it out of the pack. Fueled by lump charcoal, the grill features a ceramic body. The distinct property of ceramic helps in a high degree of heat retention. This does not only speed up cooking time but also reduces charcoal usage by a great margin.
Supporting Features
Other than its trouble-free build and versatility, the grill features a dual vent temperature control that allows precise temperature adjustment. The temperature regulation is further facilitated by the top & bottom vent which can be slid open or closed. The grill moreover comes with 2 bamboo drop-down shelves that you can use as your workstation for placing plates or even making your salads, a cast iron charcoal tray that you can use to collect the ash deposits, and a cover for the grill which you can use for storing purposes.
Together with locking casters that help keep the grill in place and promote safety, this multipurpose grill could truly be an amazing addition.
7. VESSILS 15 Inch Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill Handle Style
The kamado charcoal grill from VESSILS is the next product in our review article. Known for its versatility, this is yet another product with incredible features that should be considered while choosing the best kamado grill.
Extreme Versatility
Besides serving the basic purposes of grilling and smoking, this 5-in-1 package gives you the luxury to bake, sear, and roast foods. Allowing you to cook using a broad array of cooking techniques, this kamado grill is a perfect solution to all your cooking needs.
Double Handle Iron Stand
Even though wheels make these grills more portable, this one comes with a dual handle iron stand that makes portability easier since it does not come with a stand that has wheels. You can carry this around to whichever place you want to host your BBQ party in. Moreover, the built-in thermometer in the lid allows you to keep a check on the temperature so you know when your charcoal is hot enough for your food to go in.
Heavy-duty Built
The grill is built in such a way that it promotes fuel efficiency. The heat is retained inside the grill for a longer time which means a small amount of fuel can go a long way. Moreover, the heat retention property also helps maintain a steady temperature for a long which is essential for slow cooking. The product can withstand a temperature as high as 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, the top vent of the grill helps you manage airflow in a better manner and you can lift the lid with just a finger due to it being equipped with a spring hinge.
Beautiful Exterior
Even though the insides of the grill are made up of stainless steel that distributes heat evenly around your food, the exterior is made from ceramic material. The advanced glazing technique makes it weather (rain) resistant and keeps its shine restored. Additionally, the grill allows a large cooking grid which is adequate for serving a lot of people together.
8. Primo 775 Ceramic Charcoal Smoker Grill
Moving aside from the traditional kamado grills which come in an egg shape, Primo offers you ones that are oval in shape. Market research has helped us come to the conclusion that a portion of the customers does enjoy this shape more than the traditional ones. So let us have a look at what Primo 775 ceramic Charcoal Smoker Grill has in store for you.
Innovative Cooking Grates
The grill comes with two-position split cooking grates which are highly functional in terms of indirect cooking by setting it up high or searing food by flipping them over to place the food down low. The split half-moon-shaped grates help you switch between direct and indirect cooking methods by following simple steps. For direct cooking, all you have to do is pile up charcoal on one side and lay the grates low over the charcoal. For indirect zone cooking, do the exact opposite, place the other grate up high and away from the charcoal for slow-cooking. So, it is highly flexible when it comes to either smoking or grilling.
Compact Cooking Area
If you are cooking a small crowd, this grill might just be the perfect one for you. The cooking area measures 210 square inches which is a standard cooking surface and adequate for small families. In addition to this, the grill offers you an extra 360 square inch extension racks that you can use as your prepping workstations. You will have enough room to place your plates, BBQ condiments, and even make your salads.
Commendable Versatility
The grill can be made to come in use in multipurpose ways. You can use it as a cart, a table or a cradle, whichever way suits you the best. Moreover, Primo offers you a huge range of varieties to choose from. They have varieties in terms of size and you also have the luxury to go for the gas models if charcoal seems like too much of a hassle for you.
Durability & Warranty
The exterior of the grill features a high-quality ceramic blend that is coated with a porcelain glaze. The porcelain glaze used for this purpose provides amazing protection as it can resist scratches. Moreover, it is lead-free which makes it a safer choice. Together with the good quality and higher efficiency of the ceramic used in the construction, it gives it its added strength and can be used for extended periods of time. The durability is further boosted by the 20 years warranty for all ceramic parts that are included with the purchase.
9. Weber 18201001 Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill
Weber, a brand popularly known for its amazing gas grills, has also started its inception in the traditional kamado grill business. It is true that Weber’s gas grill is capable of smoking and grilling but Weber 18201001 Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill has a lot to offer to you so without further ado, let us take a look at the amazing features it comes with.
Dual Cooking Method
The grill supports a dual-cooking system that allows both direct and indirect cooking giving you a super-flexible cooking experience. You have the luxury to maneuver the adjustable stainless steel cooking grates and lay both low and high for slow cooking as well as searing. A diffuser plate is included in the pack which makes smoking convenient since it is capable of maintaining a consistent low heat distribution. However, the plate is detachable so you can remove it if you need to sear some steaks. The stainless steel property of the grates prevents food from sticking to it and is built to last as it is rust-resistant.
Easy Clean-Up
Enabled with a one-touch cleaning system, you do not need to follow a rigorous cleaning routine to keep your kamado grill clean. The detachable ash catcher collects all the residues for you. All you need to do is take the tray out and ditch the contents, no scraping, no washing!
Superior Temperature Control
The grill is equipped with a RapidFire lid damper that accelerates airflow so that your desired temperature is reached within a short period of time. The damper facilitates precise and quick control over the temperature which makes this equipment beginner-friendly as well! Moreover, the temperature stays locked inside the grill for longer. Thanks to the dual-walled insulation which prevents heat from dissipating into the atmosphere. Apart from these, you can keep a close eye on the temperature readings of your kamado grill as it comes with a built-in lid thermometer. Moreover, the grill is also equipped with cooking zone indicators for efficient and effective cooking.
Extra Features
It offers plentiful space for cooking so you will not face trouble while catering for guests. Moreover, the steel construction along with the porcelain-enameled finish gives it its added strength so it can run for years without the need for replacement. You will also be amazed at the char-basket charcoal fuel holders that keep your charcoal properly organized for cooking in any of the dual cooking methods that it supports.
10. Humos Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Grill
As the last entry in our review article we have chosen to go for the Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Grill from Humos. When it comes to innovation and versatility, Humos Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Grill gives strong competition to other modern kamado grills offered in the market.
Extreme Heat Retention
The Humos kamado grill features a 1.25 inches thickness. This particular property of the grill helps in heat retention, meaning, the grill can reach a high temperature very easily and can maintain that temperature for a long time. Moreover, the excellent and precise airflow control from both the top and bottom vents gives your food a special taste and allows it to be cooked quickly. The grill can support a temperature of 225 degrees Fahrenheit and goes all the way up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit.
Praiseworthy Versatility
In addition to smoking and grilling which most Kamado grills are capable of, you can use your Humos Kamado Grill to bake pizzas, bread, pies, and cookies as well without any undue effort. We thought this feature to be unique in this brand as all the others reviewed so far specialized in smoking and grilling.
Innovative Design
Taking ideas from the ancient clay vessels and improvising them, Humos Kamado Grill has been made following an innovative design that supports amazing functionality and has the perfect balance between the traditional ones and the contemporary ones.
Premium-Quality Built
The kamado grill has been crafted from nothing but high-quality materials. The ceramic used for the body of the grill helps keep the heat trapped for long but does not break the taste of the food that you are cooking. On top of that, the grill also is backed by a lifetime warranty on the ceramic body so you can make a worry-free purchase. The bamboo side tables, like the Lifesmart kamado grill formerly reviewed, do not only add an aesthetic value but have a multipurpose use. You can place your serving plates, condiments, or your BBQ tools.
Together with the easy-to-use features, a simple push on the power button gets this grill started and you are good to go!
History of Kamado Grill
Kamado grills have been named the Big Green Egg for the longest time or at least since the early 1970s. However, its origin traces back to China. It is recalled that about 3,000 years ago, the Chinese developed the fire-hardened clay (ceramic) cooking device. This new discovery gained popularity and remained prominent in Chinese cuisine.
Around 300 BC, this innovation made its way from China to Japan and these ceramic ovens were now being called kamados, which translates to “stoves”. Now it may be questioned how these made it to the USA? Well, after World War II, these unique cookers/ovens caught the attention of many westerners who were deployed in Japan. Their interest got them to bring kamados back home to the USA. Once the people in the USA understood the amazing features that these kamados could offer, this eventually gave a start to importing and selling them. And soon it picked up fans all over the world.
Nowadays, you do not only find kamados that are egg-shaped or known as Big Green Egg but you are offered a wide range of choices starting from different sizes, shapes, and colors.
Comparison Chart of The Best Kamado Grill
| Product Name | Weight | Cooking Surface | Dimension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill | 97 Pounds | 447 square inch | 45 x 31 x 47 inches |
| Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II Charcoal Grill | 250 Pounds | 18 inches diameter | 26.4 x 26.4 x 36 inches |
| Char-Griller E6520 AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill Cart | 110 Pounds | 314 square inch | 31 x 45 x 47 inches |
| VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado Grill | 252 Pounds | 604 square inch | 32.5 x 28.8 x 47 inches |
| Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Kamado Grill | 126 Pounds | 18.5 inches Diameter | 41 x 27.5 x 47 inches |
| Lifesmart 133" 6-In-1 Kamado Grill | 94.8 Pounds | 133 square inch | 22.5 x 35.25 x 38 inches |
| VESSILS 15 Inch Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill Handle Style | 84 pounds | 12.6 inches diameter | 21 x 20 x 25 inches |
| Primo 775 Ceramic Charcoal Smoker Grill | 95 Pounds | 210 square inches | 21.5 x 21 x 24.5 inches |
| Weber 18201001 Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill | 145.7 pounds | 24 inches diameter | 30.6 x 36.8 x 29.3 inches |
| Humos Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Grill | 203 pounds | 21 inches diameter | 36.5 x 25 x 24.5 inches |
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Kamado Grill
1. Size
In general, kamado grills are oddly large due to their distinct shape and capacity. However, there are variations in large sizes. When choosing any grill, it is essential to understand the size that fits your preferences the best. If you belong to a huge family or frequently host parties for large crowds then you are ought to go for the extra-large size. A 400 square-inch cooking area should be a good start. However, if you have a small family, it is wise to go for smaller models that feature a cooking area of 300 square inches or smaller as kamado grills can be quite expensive and smaller units will naturally cost you lower compared to the larger ones.
Not only that but you should also understand that larger ones require more coals so you need to allocate a greater budget on the fuel as well. In addition to that, the larger the unit, the heavier it gets. So, if you plan to travel with your kamado grill, going for larger ones will be more hassle. The answer to which size to go for will always vary from person to person as it is dependent on many factors like whether you prefer the two-zone cooking, what budget you have allocated for your kamado grill, how and where you will be storing your grill when not in use, are you going to travel with it or how frequently you will be using your kamado grill.
2. Construction Materials
As aforementioned, traditional kamado grills and many modern popular ones in the market now feature a thick ceramic body with a porcelain glaze. This is due to boost heat retention by providing insulation. The ceramic body automatically adds extra weight and makes the unit bulky but is capable of resisting heat, cold, and other extreme conditions and is built to last a lifetime. However, ceramic grills have the risk of breakage or crack if dropped which is why manufacturers have come up with an innovative design.
Nowadays kamado grills are being made from double or triple-insulated steel, cast iron, or even aluminum. Steel kamados are comparatively much lighter compared to the traditional ones and do not pose the risk of shattering if tipped off accidentally. On top of that, stainless steel ones are much cheaper alternatives. However, they are prone to rust and corrosion so they will not last as long as ceramic kamado grills last.
3. Warranty
It has already been established that kamado grills are expensive so, it is no less than an investment and people tend to protect their investments. Therefore, it is always wise to go for the brands which offer you a warranty. Some brands offer you a lifetime warranty on the whole unit whereas other warranties cover only certain parts of the grill. So, it is important to consider the warranty before making your purchasing decision.
4. Accessories
Nobody minds a little extra which is why any accessories that come with your choice of kamado grills are welcomed. The most common type of accessory that complements a kamado grill is the side tables. These tables give you a sufficient workstation place which you can utilize whichever you desire. Other accessories include a built-in thermometer, pizza stones, wheels, grate tongs, and other basic BBQ tools. These may not be enough to attract you at first but trust us, they can become very useful once you prepare your setup.
5. Ventilation
The vent in our opinion is a crucial feature in a kamado grill that needs to be considered while making a buying decision. The vent helps you control the heat of your grill. How bright and strongly the fire in your grill burns is dependent on the airflow you allow through the vent- more air leads to hotter fire. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to go for the ones that have a good ventilation system.
Some models have manual control whereas others have automated systems to control the airflow. Vents either feature a single or a double wheel. Even though both get your job done just fine, double wheels offer a greater precision when it comes to regulating the temperature.
6. Maintenance
Even though kamado grills do not require much maintenance, proper handling will help you use the grill for an extended period of time. Like any other grills, the cooking grates of kamado grills also need to be cleaned after you are done using them. Cooking grates are generally made from enameled steel but some are made from 304 stainless steel. While both prevent food from sticking to it, enameled ones do a better job.
It is of utmost importance to clean your ashtray frequently in order to let your grill breathe easily, otherwise, it may get clogged. Most of the models that we have reviewed so far come with a detachable ashtray which makes cleaning them much easier. Even though some brands include a grill cover with their purchase but if it does not come in your box of purchase you should buy one to keep the exterior of your grill protected when it is not in use.
Oval-Shaped Kamados Vs. Round Kamados
Round-shaped Kamados are soon being replaced by oval-shaped ones as they are gaining popularity each day. This is because oval-shaped ones facilitate heating and are more efficient compared to round ones. The smoke and heat circulation is better in the oval kamados which in turn speeds up the cooking time and gives your food a special taste which is not the case in round kamados where the heat is unevenly distributed. Proponents of round kamados argue that the best way of setting up perfect heat zones is by adjusting the distance between the food and the fire and to do so, certain tools and techniques are required which need to be purchased separately. This gives rise to extra spending. Not only that but it may be very difficult to do this, especially for the newbies.
In addition to this, grilling aficionados in recent times prefer a two-zone system for grilling which is best achieved in the oval-shaped ones. Moreover, these types of grills make access to food a lot easier due to their design.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use regular charcoal briquettes in my Kamado grill?
Even though kamado manufacturers usually do not support the use of charcoal briquettes and recommend you to go for the expensive lump charcoal. Their argument is on the basis of briquettes producing more ash compared to charcoal lumps which end up clogging the airflow and may require longer to cook the same portion of food. However, it isn’t like you CANNOT use charcoal briquettes but using it would involve much more inconvenience than lump charcoal ones and some manufacturers also sell their private-label ones, so it is easier to find them along with ease of use as well.
2. Is seasoning required in Kamado grills?
Kamado grills do not require any sort of seasoning. Apart from considering the normal hygiene practices, they are good to be used just out of the pack.
3. Can wood be used in a Kamado grill?
Yes, absolutely! You can always add wood to give your food that special aroma and taste.
4. Are kamado grills durable?
Kamado grills are known to last a lifetime even though they are a more expensive option than other types of grills. They give a good value of the investment, however, the durability may depend from brand to brand.
5. What is a kamado flashback?
A kamado flashback occurs when the charcoal you have placed in the grill does not get enough oxygen. If you open the lid of the grill in that instant, an abrupt ignition takes place and that is what we call a kamado flashback. Even though it rarely happens one should always be careful while opening the lid.
6. How should I add charcoal to my kamado grill?
It is no nuclear science, you just have to follow some simple steps. Firstly, make sure to keep your firebox clean and then load it with your choice of lump charcoal or briquettes, whichever you find convenient and appropriate for your grill. You are not required to completely fill the firebox. While starting out, it will always be a test run as there is no standard measured out amount for charcoal as it differs from grill to grill. You need to adjust the quantity as you proceed.
7. What is the correct way to light up my kamado grill?
Even though it is easy to light up a kamado grill but you need to be careful while lighting up any sort of grill. Firstly, make sure that you have both the top and bottom vents opened. Once they are all open, pop a fire starter and allow it to fully light up. Once it starts burning properly, add larger chunks of charcoal and wait for them to catch fire. You can then go on to place the racks and accessories after the coals start glowing.
It is always suggested that you do not use any lighter fluid to start your fire in any ceramic grill. This will lead to creating holes inside your cooker which is obviously not sought. It is safe and appropriate to start the fire using a fire starter or an electric starter.
8. How can I adjust the vents on my kamado grill?
It is of utter importance to know how to adjust or close the vents. Firstly keep the vents open while you close the lid of the grill. Keep a close eye on the thermometer to check the temperature and wait for it to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit below your target. Once the temperature falls to the mentioned degree, it is safe to close the vents. The bottom vent can be close halfway to achieve this and you can use the top vent to regulate the temperature as per your desire.
Wrapping it Up!
These kamado grills are a champ when it comes to the extent of heat retention. All you need is a small amount of fuel and you are good to go for the day. Be it a slow and low-temperature cook or a fiery scalding hot grill, they have got you covered. Apart from that, searing is another feature well appreciated in these cookers. In short, kamado grills offer you everything you can seek in an ideal grill.
Now that you have reached this section of our best kamado grills article, we would like to think that we were successful in convincing you why you should get your own kamado grill. We wholeheartedly hope our article has guided you to take a decision regarding which kamado grill will suit your preferences the best. These easy-to-use grills will surely level up your grilling sessions.
Happy grilling!