Kamado Grill 101

Kamado grills are not your typical grills. The size, shape, and material are not necessarily what comes to mind when dreaming of a new grill for your patio. But on the other hand, maybe it’s time to take a look at these different grills. They are versatile to say the least and extremely enjoyable to use.  Kamado grills are great for grilling, smoking, baking and even roasting; because of the high heat retaining characteristics of these grills.  They have excellent internal heat and moisture retention levels and can stay as low as 150 degrees or approach temperatures as high as 900 degrees.  They usually come on some type of stainless steel cart or can be built right into your outdoor kitchen.  Needless to say, they are certainly a conversation starter in anyone’s backyard.

What is a Kamado Grill Anyway?

The Kamado is a traditional Japanese cooking stove dating back thousands of years.

They look more like bongo drums than grills, but don’t let that deceive you. They’re often made of ceramic but some have a one-of-a-kind double layer 304 stainless steel structure and  there are some cast aluminum models as well.

Kamado grills typically use charcoal for fuel, however you can use wood chips, as well. The unique design allows your food to be more evenly cooked by retaining and circulating the heat, also conserving more fuel than you would in a traditional grill. It’s small size makes it easy to fit in virtually any outdoor cooking space.

Best of all? They’re easy to setup, easy to use, and easy to clean. A thermometer is located right on the lid , so you can monitor and adjust the temperature by letting more or less air into the cooking space.

Kamado Grill Cons

• • Heavy: The larger Kamado grills can weigh a lot, thanks to those thick walls. No problem as long as you don’t plan to move it very often, or if you get a cart to go with it!

• • Small: If you regularly entertain large groups of people, you’ll probably want a larger grill that allows you to cook more food at once.

• • Set up time: It only takes 15 minutes to set up, but still isn’t quite as easy as flicking on a switch to get the gas going.  They are airtight and can be adjusted with air vents.

Popular Kamado Grills

• • We carry several different Kamado brands and models to suit your tastes and budget

• • Blaze: This Kamado is made of cast aluminum (don’t worry–you still get those thick heat-retaining walls!) and you can easily add fuel at any time during the cooking process without removing the cooking grate.

• • Saffire: With several sizes and colors to choose from, you’ll love the option to add easily removable bamboo side shelves, multi-level cooking racks, or a stainless steel cart. (Options could depend upon the model you choose.)

• • Primo Ceramic Grills: Again, choose your favorite size and color, and customize it with a cover, red oak side shelves, or a stainless steel cart.

• • Considering the Kamado grill’s versatility, durability, and ease of use, the deciding factor may be size and weight, understandably. How big is your outdoor cooking and entertaining space? How many people do you cook for? How often do you plan to move the grill, and how easy is it for you to do so?

• • If you think a Kamado would be ideal in your backyard, give us a call. We’re happy to answer any additional questions you might have about it and we will help you pick out the brand and style that makes the most sense for your needs.