Kamado Grills FAQ
If you love cooking outdoors, having a top Kamado grill on your porch or backyard can elevate your cooking. Whether you need a grill exclusively for meats or your corn, mushrooms, and assorted vegetables, the Kamado grill has all it takes to bring out the texture and flavor of your meals. If you are a beginner at using the Kamado grill, this FAQ will give you the information you need for the best cooking experience.
Why buy a Kamado grill online?
Kamado grills are ceramic charcoal grills that provide a fantastic grilling experience. Their largest distinguishing factor is the material they are made of ceramic. Ceramic, unlike standard metal, absorbs heat fantastically and radiates it just as well. This compounded with the dome shape provides even and high heat with very little fuel and effort.
What is a Kamado grill and what are they used for?
A Kamado grill is an egg-shaped ceramic grill that uses lump charcoal to grill, smoke, roast, and bake. It is an efficient grill that generates steady heat and traps moisture from the cooking food. That way, your dishes remain tender and juicy when done.
What is the difference between a Kamado grill and a conventional charcoal grill?
Unlike a conventional charcoal grill, kamado grills are made of ceramic, which has superior heat retention to metal. Ceramic kamado grills also maintain smoke and moisture far better than conventional charcoal grills, which gives the food a better flavor profile. Not only that, kamado grills start up faster than the ordinary charcoal grill.
Do I cook with the lid up or down?
Yes. Since Kamado grills work well as smokers, grills, and brick ovens, they cook a variety of foods including turkey, pizzas, brisket, pork, ribs, sweet potatoes, chicken, burgers, steaks, corn, baked beans, or even simple cobbler.
Why is natural lump charcoal recommended for kamados?
Most Kamado grill brands recommend using natural lump charcoal as the sole source of fuel for the grill. Natural lump charcoal burns hotter for longer, achieving high steak-searing temperatures in the least time. Also, this charcoal complements the ceramic materials to use less fuel and bring our versatile flavors to your food.
I've heard the Kamado grills are good for smoking. Do they also work well for hamburgers, steaks, and other types of food?
Yes. Since Kamado grills work well as smokers, grills, and brick ovens, they cook a variety of foods including turkey, pizzas, brisket, pork, ribs, sweet potatoes, chicken, burgers, steaks, corn, baked beans, or even simple cobbler.
Why is natural lump charcoal recommended for kamados?
Most Kamado grill brands recommend using natural lump charcoal as the sole source of fuel for the grill. Natural lump charcoal burns hotter for longer, achieving high steak-searing temperatures in the least time. Also, this charcoal complements the ceramic materials to use less fuel and bring our versatile flavors to your food.
What is the best way to light a Kamado grill?
Our experts recommend electric starters to light a kamado grill. User-friendly and fast, electric starters are wonderful kamado grill accessories to keep on hand. Another recommendation: charcoal chimney starters. With just newspapers and a match, chimney starters are just as user-friendly!
Never use lighter fluid or flammable liquids when lighting your Kamado grill as they can pose a safety hazard.
Is it hard to cook with a Kamado grill?
No. Cooking with a Kamado grill is a fun experience. However, it may take you some time to master its unique cooking style.
Is a kamado grill safe to use during inclement weather?
Yes. The ceramic walls of a Kamado grill are weather-resistant. They can withstand extreme cold and heavy rains. Still, cover the grill with a protective hood or cover when not in use.
I've heard about Kamado flashback. What is it, and how can I avoid it?
Kamado flashback or backdraft is that abrupt fireball that often arises when you open your Kamado grill in between your cooking. This fireball happens due to the oxygen rushing into the grill. Still, you can easily avoid these flashbacks by burping your Kamado grill regularly.
Burping my Kamado? How do I do that?
To burp your Kamado grill, start by opening the bottom vent. Next, step away from the grill before slowly lifting the lid by an inch or two. Leave it at that position for at least 10 seconds to allow oxygen to fill the grilling chamber. Now, lift the lid to its maximum open position.
Do I have to use lump charcoal in my Kamado?
Yes. Lump charcoal burns hotter for longer. It brings out the smoky flavor in your foods.
Will the ceramic of my Kamado break down over time?
Kamado grills are built to last a long time, but your Kamado grill will undergo wear and tear. That’s why it is important to regularly check on the grill. Make sure all the mechanics are tightened and in place, along with making sure it is clean and free from corrosives.
Will I have to tighten my kamado’s band? If so, how often?
Yes. The Kamado grill band becomes loose over time. Check and line them up with their corresponding grooves. Refer to the user manual for the appropriate tools for tightening the bands.
How do I clean my Kamado? How often should I?
It is important to clean your grill before and after wash use, but you should also do a deep clean inside the grill once or twice every year. Start by removing all the ash from the bottom of the grill. Check for any areas with ash or dripping stuck in the hidden spots. Finally, clean the outside with a light cleaner and your grill is good to go.
Can I use a water pan in my kamado?
The ergonomic and efficient design of the Kamado grill creates the necessary moist environment for your food. Hence, you do not need to add a water pan when cooking.
