We took the Big Green Egg kamado grill for a spin over the past year to see if it lives up to the hype.
- Despite its hefty weight, the wheeled Nest made it somewhat portable.
- The accessories are a must-have for an easier grilling experience.
- Lighting the grill was tricky but manageable with practice.
- This grill excels in low and slow cooking and is built to last.
The Big Green Egg kamado grill is not only big but also remarkably heavy. The Large Egg, weighing in at 162 pounds, is no joke. Thanks to the wheeled Nest, moving it around the yard wasn’t too daunting. However, don’t count on taking it to your local park.
Accessories make a world of difference when using the Egg. Practical items like the custom coal stoker and ashtray are essential. The Eggspander, adding more cooking levels, is great for gentle cooking. Budgeting for these extras enhances your grilling adventure.
Lighting this grill requires some patience. I skipped the Egg-specific butane lighter and used paraffin wax cubes instead. Although the dual airflow channels help, getting the coals lit on the first try can be hit-or-miss. Starting early helps to adjust if your coals need more attention.
When it comes to low and slow cooking, the Egg is a superstar. Whether it’s an eight-hour smoked brisket or weeknight grilling at 450ºF, the Egg keeps a steady temperature. The ability to maintain 230˚F for hours makes it a smoker’s dream. Just make sure you have a thermometer.
Built to last, the Egg’s ceramic construction means fewer moving parts to break. Maintenance involves tightening bolts and a deep clean every so often. The lack of electronic components means less to worry about. However, budget some time for cooldown – it takes a while given the fantastic heat retention.
For serious grill enthusiasts, the Big Green Egg is worth the investment, despite its challenges.
Source: Seriouseats