Best Kamado grill to take your 2024 BBQs to the next level

Relax outside and enjoy some feel-good cooking with a versatile egg-shaped barbecue

kamado grill

by Jill Morgan |
Updated on

Finding the best Kamado grill is a big deal. These hooded outdoor grills take all the stress out of al fresco cooking, allowing you to grill smoky, succulent dishes on charcoal very easily.

Extremely versatile, the close-sealed hood and insulated outer means you can cook food as quickly or slowly as you like, so all you need to do is sit back, crack open a drink and wait until your meal is barbecued to perfection. And the design also means that it's much easier to use all year round. With its distinctive good looks and range of finishes, it's easy to find a design that will suit your plot, needs and budget. There's no denying that this is an investment buy, but there are now budget BBQ options on the market, and your purchase will be life-changing. Maybe you'll find a deal, too.

Best Kamado grill at a glance:

Most people pronounce Kamado as "k-MAH-doh", but the syllables are equally weighted in Japanese pronunciation, so we should really say "ka-ma-doh". Kamado grills are different to hybrid BBQs or gas BBQs, not only in shape but how they work, too. Originally from Japan, these egg-shaped ceramic vessels have evolved from simple wood - or charcoal-fired clay cooking pots called kamados, the Japanese word translating to 'stove' or 'place for the cauldron'. They're a great charcoal BBQ for your garden.

Impressed by the cooking methods they saw in WWII, American troops took their first-hand knowledge of these grills back home, and 1974 saw the launch of the Big Green Egg company. The company used a ceramic material based on NASA technology and teamed it with a dual-layered, highly durable glaze. Here, they created the iconic product that's so recognisable today - featured in our best Kamado grill round-up. Since then, other companies have launched product lines, and the market has lots of variations.

Best Kamado grill

Now, we've found the best Kamado grill for your outdoor cookouts.

Best lightweight Kamado grill

Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr Charcoal Grill, Blaze RedKamado Joe
Price: $485.29

Small, portable and a joy to use, this ceramic kamado offers all the cooking capabilities of the larger egg-style grills but in an easier-to-move 31kg package. Perfect for speedy suppers or lazy weekend roasts, a circular cast-iron cradle keeps the grill secure and stable, and it can be easily stored when not in use or popped in the car if you're invited for dinner in someone else's garden.

It has a 34cm grill which is ample for serving two people. Get authentic chargrilled flavours, plus the versatility of being able to slow cook, roast as well as grill. Customers enjoy the cooking style and this junior model offers a more practical size than full size kamado ovens if you're short on space. Also, it's small enough to fit in the boot of a car.

Some customers felt this Kamado Joe Jr needed better instructions and customer support. Do bear in mind that this style of cooking takes a bit of preparation and effort, but the benefit is that you get to enjoy the ritual of kamado-style cooking in a compact form.

Pros

  • Premium ceramic grill with excellent heat retention
  • Precise temperature control with cast-iron air vent
  • Versatile cooking options and innovative design

Cons

  • Some customers felt that could be more detailed instructions and customer support
DimensionsW41 x H56 x D53 cm
Weight31 kg
CompositionCeramic grill with cast iron stand and stainless steel grate
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill DimensionsDia. 34 cm
Care InstructionsSlide out the ash drawer and charcoal basket divider for simple clean-up, and grill cover to protect
Heat Range107° to 400°C
AccessoriesCast iron stand, built-in thermometer, cooking grate, heat deflector, grill gripper, ash tool
  • With a cast iron stand, ensuring durability and stability during cooking sessions.
  • The thick-walled shell is designed to lock in smoke and moisture at any temperature, enhancing the flavour and tenderness of your grilled dishes.
  • Equipped with a cast-iron air vent, this grill provides precise temperature control, allowing you to achieve consistent results.
  • Featuring a built-in thermometer with a heat range of 110°C to 400°C, you can easily monitor the cooking temperature.
  • The stainless steel grate ensures even heat distribution and can withstand high temperatures and frequent use.
  • Included accessories like the ceramic heat deflector, grill gripper, and ash tool add convenience to your grilling experience, making it easier to manage and maintain.
  • With a slide-out ash drawer, cleanup becomes hassle-free, eliminating the need to disassemble the grill.
  • Side handles provide portability, allowing you to transport the grill for outdoor events such as camping trips or beach parties.
  • Essential accessories like a grill cover, soapstone, charcoal basket, and cast iron sear plate, expand your grilling possibilities.

Best Kamado grill overall

Weber Summit Kamado GrillWeber

Experience the ultimate grilling with the Weber Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill. Its dual-walled insulation ensures precise temperature control, while steel construction guarantees durability. The Rapidfire lid damper enables quick heat, and One-Touch cleaning simplifies maintenance. Its Gourmet BBQ System is ready for versatile cooking options. Pair with some durable Weber accessories and you're all set.

Reviews across the web indicate that this Weber is so much more versatile than a standard kettle BBQ. It can retain heat for up to 24 hours, allowing for smoking and slow cooking. In addition, two-zone cooking is possible. It also has a pizza stone accessory. Customers comment that they like how compact the Weber kamado is in comparison to competitors. However, some customers received stands that were not as stable as they could be. Reviews comment that the newer stand design is more stable.

Pros

  • Dual-walled insulation for precise temperature control
  • Durable steel construction with a porcelain-enamelled finish
  • Rapidfire lid damper for quick heat adjustment

Cons

  • Some customers comment that the stand was not as sturdy as it could be, but have since received an updated stand design
DimensionsW88.4 x H150.9 x D90.9 cm
Weight66.2 kg
CompositionDurable insulated steel with porcelain enamel finish
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill Dimensions61 cm cooking area
Care InstructionsBBQ cover recommended.
Heat RangeUnspecified.
AccessoriesAdjustable fuel grate - cookware sold separately
  • Dual-walled insulation ensures precise temperature control, allowing you to maintain them throughout your cooking.
  • Constructed with durable steel and finished with porcelain enamel, the Kamado E6 is built to last, with years of reliable performance.
  • The Rapidfire lid damper enhances airflow, facilitating rapid temperature changes for versatile cooking options.
  • Featuring a convenient One-Touch cleaning system, this grill simplifies post-cooking cleanup, saving you time and effort.
  • Its adjustable fuel grate offers flexibility for various cooking techniques, whether you're smoking ribs or searing steaks.
  • Gourmet BBQ System compatibility expands your culinary horizons, allowing you to explore a range of cooking styles.

Best premium Kamado grill

Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Charcoal BBQEverdure
Price: $1,299 (was £1,700)

www.bbqworld.co.uk

Discover the ultimate fusion of tradition and innovation with the Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Charcoal BBQ. This contemporary marvel combines the age-old art of Japanese kamado cooking with cutting-edge digital technology, delivering unrivalled versatility, precision and performance for your outdoor culinary adventures. It's smart, innovative and packed with features for anyone to enjoy.

It's a doddle to ignite the coals by pressing an ignition switch. In addition, you have the back-up of an electric hotplate to ensure everything is thoroughly cooked and kept warm.

A customer comments that the temperature control is excellent and it can be monitored using the accompanying probes and app. Cook a whole chicken on the Everdure with perfect smoky and succulent results.

This BBQ caters for everyone, whether you want the simplicity and convenience of an electric BBQ or the ritual and flavours of cooking on coals – do it all with the Everdure.

Pros

  • Tradition meets technology for precise cooking
  • Durable construction ensures consistent results
  • Offers versatile cooking techniques

Cons

  • Requires mains power for operation
DimensionsW55 x H115 x D70 cm
Weight50 kg
CompositionDie-cast aluminium plus thick gauge metal
Fuel TypeCharcoal, Electric, 1400 W
Grill Dimensions2771 cm sq.
Care InstructionsUnspecified.
Heat Range120 to 400 Celcius
AccessoriesStand, high-temperature aluminium top vent, auto-locking hood, stainless steel legs and handle, retractable cord and mains plug and free cover!
  • Combines traditional charcoal grilling with modern digital technology.
  • Durable die-cast aluminium construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Versatile cooking capabilities with four distinct techniques.
  • Innovative insulation design reduces heat transfer to the exterior, ensuring safety.
  • Digital control system with LED display for precise temperature management.
  • Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring and access to recipes.
  • Convenient side-loading port for adding charcoal during cooking.
  • Includes integrated probes for monitoring food and ambient temperatures.
  • Cool-to-touch exterior for added safety.
  • Easy-to-clean design with a one-touch cleaning system.
  • Compact size with sleek, modern aesthetics.

Best mini Kamado grill

Pig Bluey Mini BBQSnaffling Pig
Price: $349.99 (was £499.99)

www.snafflingpig.co.uk

Meet the Snaffling Pig Mini Pig Bluey Kamado Egg BBQ – your all-in-one grilling solution. With bold blue style and clever features like a built-in thermometer and cast iron ventilation cap, it's ready to grill, smoke, bake, and roast with ease. Compact, efficient, and versatile – it's the ultimate BBQ companion.

Reviews praise this model for the easy temperature control. It's a good option if you're looking for a small kamado oven. Whilst there are not a lot of customer comments available, those that are say this little piggy is excellent.

Pros

  • Versatile cooking: grill, smoke, bake, cook, and roast effortlessly
  • Efficient fuel use, requiring minimal charcoal for longer cooking
  • Compact and portable, which is versatile for outdoor adventures

Cons

  • Not widely available online
DimensionsW47 x H57 cm
Weight43 kg
CompositionHigh-temp ceramics, cast-iron ventilation cap, stainless steel door
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill Dimensions13 inch.
Care InstructionsPyrolytic self-cleaning
Heat RangeUnspecified.
AccessoriesBuilt-in thermometer
  • Kamado-style design for versatile cooking options: grill, smoke, bake, cook, or roast.
  • Efficient charcoal consumption: Achieves temperatures with minimal charcoal usage.
  • Built-in thermometer and cast iron ventilation cap for precise temperature control.
  • Made of high-temperature-resistant ceramics for durability.A
  • 13-inch cooking grid accommodates various foods like whole chickens, ribs, or steaks.
  • Stainless steel door at the base for easy ash collection and airflow adjustment.
  • Portable and compact design, weighing 43kg and measuring 47cm wide by 57cm high.

Best budget Kamado grill

Habitat Mini Tabletop Kamado BBQHabitat

For a budget-friendly cookout, we love the Habitat Mini Tabletop Kamado BBQ, perfect for intimate gatherings. With a 27cm diameter cooking surface, it accommodates up to 4 servings. Harnessing charcoal power, its egg shape and air regulation ensure even cooking. Crafted from ceramic clay, it excels in smoking, baking, grilling and searing, delivering unrivalled flavour and juicy results.

Customer reviews highly praise this Habitat model. They say it's surprisingly good for its heat retention and it cooks well. Two or three people can get a decent meal out of this solid little kamado oven. It's small enough to be portable too.

One detail to note is that it doesn't have a heat deflector, but a customer comments that as long as you wrap food in foil it will cook without getting too exposed to the coals.

Pros

  • Versatile cooking options: smoking, baking, grilling, and searing
  • Excellent heat retention and insulation thanks to the ceramic construction
  • Compact and portable design, making it ideal for small outdoor spaces

Cons

  • Doesn't have a heat deflector
DimensionsW43.5 x H55 x D46 cm
Weight21 kg
CompositionClay/Ceramic
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill Dimensions27 cm sq.
Care InstructionsUnspecified.
Heat RangeUnspecified.
AccessoriesN/A
  • Despite being compact, it offers a generous 27 cm cooking surface.
  • The unique shape and adjustable air supply/exhaust ensures efficient fuel consumption.
  • Crafted from ceramic, it retains and reflects heat, resulting in even cooking.
  • From smoking and baking to grilling and searing, cook a variety of cooking techniques.
  • Imparts a rich, smoky flavour to your dishes, elevating the taste of your cookout.
  • Perfect for small outdoor spaces or on-the-go grilling adventures.
  • Made from sturdy clay, this BBQ is built to last, providing years of reliable performance.

Best Kamado grill for high-quality

Kamado Joe Classic Joe III Charcoal BBQKamado Joe

Rrp: $1999.00

Price: $1739.00
Alternative retailers
Lowe's$1999.00View offer
Wayfair$1999.00View offer
Best Buy$1999.00View offer
Scheels$1999.99View offer

A grill with all the frills, this classic egg-style kamado oven is set on a heavy-duty rolling cart on swivel castors and flanked with heatproof side shelves. The latest hyperbolic smoke chamber imbues food with delicious flavour, while the three-tier cooking system comes with game-changing catering-grade stainless-steel and ceramic half-moon deflector plates. Kamado Joe® Classic III has style, there is no doubt.

Customers comment that this Kamado Joe imparts a super flavour in food, plus it's fun to use. It's certainly as robust as it looks and there's plenty of online tutorials to help you master the art of kamado-style cooking.

Do expect a bit of a learning curve while you get used to it and be ware that it's a large and heavy piece of kit. It takes two people to lift it, when it's not on a stand.

Pros

  • The SlōRoller Insert converts the grill into a smoker for more options
  • Premium ceramic grill for high-quality cooking and good heat retention
  • Cooks multiple foods at different temperatures simultaneously for versatility

Cons

  • Multiple features and accessories may complicate assembly
  • Some customers said that they couldn't get the temperature up very high
DimensionsW118 x H128 x D76 cm
Weight119 kg
CompositionCeramic
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill Dimensions1613 cm sq.
Care InstructionsStainless steel charcoal basket for easy clean-up
Heat Range107 °C - 399 °C
AccessoriesBuilt-in thermometer, powder-coated cart, s/steel basket
  • Includes a durable, heavy-duty powder-coated grill cart & locking wheels.
  • Three-tier flexible cooking system for cooking various foods at various temperatures.
  • SlōRoller hyperbolic insert to instantly convert your grill into a smoker.
  • The top vent maintains a consistent air setting during dome opening and closing.
  • Air Lift™ hinge significantly reduces dome weight.
  • Stainless steel charcoal basket for easy clean up.
  • The double-thick Wire Mesh Fiberglass Gasket offers a superior air-tight seal.

Best Kamado grill for outdoor pizza

Indulge in the culinary delights of the Boss Grill The Egg Charcoal BBQ. Crafted for longevity and superior performance, this ceramic grill retains heat and moisture, offering versatile cooking options from smoking to grilling. Includes a built-in temperature gauge, easy-to-use vents, and a free pizza stone for homemade pizzas. How cool is that? Suitable for all year, this Boss Egg BBQ is superb.

Customers put out that this Boss model retails at a much lower price-point than top-name competitors and it still delivers quality kamado-style cooking. In particular, reviews comment that it has great heat retention.

Some customers comment that they wish in had particular accessories: a cast iron griddle plate, an ash basket and a heat reflector were mentioned in reviews. But, this model does come with a free pizza stone and cover. At under £500, it's one of the most accessible kamado ovens on the market.

Pros

  • The ceramic body ensures insulation for consistent heat, saving fuel and time
  • From smoking to grilling, this BBQ handles various cooking tasks effortlessly
  • Enjoy homemade pizzas with the included stone for added culinary versatility

Cons

  • Some customers have said it's slightly tricky to assemble due to the weight
DimensionsW112 x H106 x D65 cm
Weight60 kg
CompositionCeramic
Fuel TypeCharcoal, Wood Chips
Grill Dimensions1288 cm sq.
Care InstructionsCover when not in use
Heat Range450 Celcius maximum
AccessoriesRain cover, pizza stone, utensil hooks, side shelves
  • Premium 18" ceramic grill for durability and superior heat retention.
  • Flexible bottom grill for customizable cooking options.
  • Bamboo side shelves for convenient food prep and storage.
  • Ceramic fire bowl and easy lift lid for effortless use.
  • Cast iron charcoal grate for even heat distribution.
  • Stainless steel top vent for precise temperature control.
  • Bottom vent for efficient airflow management.
  • Built-in thermometer for monitoring cooking temperatures.
  • 2 locking castor wheels ensure stability during cooking.
  • A rain cover is included for year-round protection.

Best Kamado grill for large gatherings

Big Green Egg Large Egg BBQ and Modular Nest Acacia Wood Expansion Bundle with ConvEGGtorBig Green Egg

Outdoor cooking has had an upgrade with the Big Green Egg Large Egg BBQ and Modular Nest Acacia Wood Expansion Bundle. Crafted from durable ceramic, this barbecue offers exceptional heat insulation and precise temperature control for tender, flavourful results. With a spacious cooking area and versatile ConvEGGtor, it's perfect for grilling, smoking, roasting and baking.

The included nest stand and acacia wood expansion table provide ample space for food preparation, while caster wheels ensure easy mobility. Elevate your barbecue game with this all-in-one bundle.
A customer comments that this is so much more than a BBQ. They cooked roast chicken with vegetables in a roasting tray and had a deliciously smoky and moist roast in just over an hour.

Reviews across the web suggest that the Big Egg Egg is BBQ comes top in customers' options for kamado cooking. It's superb quality and the customer service is excellent. You have to be really invested in kamado cooking, but rest assured this is the superlative model that comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Pros

  • Exceptional heat insulation for precise temperature control
  • Versatile cooking options including grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking
  • The spacious cooking area accommodates large meals for family gatherings

Cons

  • Reviewer recommends using a strong screwdriver for the stubborn screws during the easy assembly
DimensionsEgg: H80 x W56 x D69cm, Each stand: H77 x W76 x D76cm
Weight133 kg
CompositionCeramic Egg, powder-coated stainless aluminium stand, acacia wood
Fuel TypeCharcoal
Grill DimensionsDia.46cm
Care InstructionsClean the grill before and after use with a grill brush to remove food and fat from the grill.
Heat RangeUnspecified.
AccessoriesExpansion Table, ConvEGGtor, Stainless Steel Grid, rEGGulator Snuffer Cap, Tel-Tru Thermometer
  • Easy to clean with wipe-clean surface and self-cleaning residual heat feature.
  • Ideal for gatherings of 2-10 people with its spacious cooking area.
  • Includes firebox, fire ring, and fire grate for efficient charcoal usage.
  • A stainless steel cooking grid ensures even heat distribution and durability.
  • With a rEGGulator snuffer cap and Tel-Tru thermometer dome gauge for precise control.
  • 1688-sq cm cooking area fits two 20-pound turkeys, 12 burgers, 6 chickens vertically, 8 steaks, or 7 racks of ribs (vertically).
  • Comes with a nest stand, shelves, tool hooks, and transporter wheels for mobility.
  • Acacia wood expansion table with shelves, tool hooks and wheels.

Best Kamado grill with smart features

Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill and SmokerKamado Joe

The future of grilling is here with the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker. With built-in digital controls and app connectivity, enjoy hassle-free cooking with precision temperature control and automatic features. Plus, its spacious cooking area and versatile cooking system offer endless culinary possibilities. It's heavy-duty, super-smart and will revolutionise your barbies.

Online reviews praise the precise temperature control and range of accessories. Because it is a large and heavy piece of kit, it requires more than one person to help set it up. In comparison to other kamado ovens, reviews say it is easy to clean.

The Konnected Joe has a feature that regulates the temperature automatically; just like setting the temperature on a conventional oven, albeit you're cooking on charcoal. There is a digital display to show you the grill temperature.

If you're into gadgets, you'll want to have a go with the Kamado Joe app. It pairs your phone and grill so you can watch the oven temperature on a graph. The only caveat is that the grill will need to be near a Wi-Fi signal. Also, bear in mind that it needs to be near a plug socket too.

Pros

  • Built-in digital controls and app connectivity for hands-on and hassle-free cooking
  • With a spacious cooking area and two-tier system, enjoy endless versatility
  • Complete with an automatic fire starter and Kontrol Fan to simplify grilling

Cons

  • Need access to a plug socket and Wi-Fi signal
DimensionsW119 x H122 x D79 cm
Weight98 kg
CompositionCeramic with heavy-duty powder-coated steel grill cart
Fuel TypeCharcoal, Smooker Chips
Grill Dimensions46 cm sq.
Care InstructionsCover recommend
Heat Range107c to 370c
AccessoriesAdvanced Multi-panel (AMP) firebox, folding aluminium side shelves, grill Gripper, ash Tool, two ceramic heat deflectors, accessory rack, meat probe
  • 46cm App-controlled ceramic grill with 1613 sq cm of cooking space.
  • AFS (Automatic Fire Starter) for instant charcoal ignition.
  • Digital Kontrol Board with temperature graphing and alerts.
  • Kamado Joe App for temperature control, meat probe monitoring, and recipes.
  • Kontrol Fan for maintaining desired temperatures from 107°C to 370°C.
  • Automatic Cook Mode for digitally connected cooking or Manual Cook Mode.
  • Kontrol Tower top vent for consistent airflow control.
  • Air Lift Hinge significantly reduces dome weight for easy lifting.
  • 2-Tier Divide and Conquer Cooking System for versatile cooking options.
  • Heavy-duty powder-coated steel grill cart with locking wheels for mobility and stability.

Kamado grill accessories

Best cold smoker

PRO Q COLD SMOKE GENERATORPRO Q
Price: $34.99

This cold smoker generator uses real wood to produce cool smoke for up to 12 hours. It's the perfect gadget for almost any BBQ or grill. The Pro Q Cold Smoke Generator has received some glowing customer reviews for its effectiveness.

Reviews praise this accessory as a must-have for smoking food on a BBQ. Consistently customers say that it exceeded their expectations. It uses a tealight to ignite the sawdust, and once smoldering it can be placed in a compatible BBQ or smoker cabinet. Food inside will cold smoke and gain a distinctive flavour.

Some customers comment that the smoke generator doesn't come with enough sawdust to fill it, so do bear in mind that you may need to purchase additional sawdust.

Pros

  • Effective in smoking a range of foods
  • Well reviewed for its simplicity
  • Doesn't get too hot, so it's reasonably safe to use

Cons

  • It's not a heavy-duty smoker

Best Kamado grill accessory

Cook ribs, whole roasts, vegetables, steaks, pizzas and more all at once with this cooking system. The Onlyfire GCG-8552 Cooking System fits the internal cavity of the major Kamado oven brands, including Weber, The Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe.

This accessory gives you more cooking surfaces to work with, so you can grill with direct heat or cook low and slow with indirect heat.

In general, customers praise this cooking system for being a good fit for their kamado oven and it doubled the cooking space available.

Some reviews point out that the heat deflectors are a bit thinner than the plates found in a branded model, such as a Kamado Joe, but they were still effective.

The main requirement is to note which models this accessory is compatible with, to ensure it will fit.

Pros

  • Compatible with major kamado BBQ brands
  • Expands the possibilities of kamado cooking
  • Creates more grilling surfaces and options for direct and indirect cooking

Cons

  • Some customers find it a bit small

Best kamado BBQ griddle accessory

DUAL-SIDED CAST IRON PLANCHA GRIDDLEBig Green Egg

This griddle gives you maximum surface contact while you're searing. The Dual-Sided Cast Iron Plancha Griddle will last a lifetime and impart extra flavour to meat. The taste is incomparable. This griddle is an accessory from The Big Green Egg.

A little bit more known in the US, customers praise this griddle for being able to cook tortillas for fajitas on the grill. The plancha gives steak a crusty exterior, whilst retaining a juiciness on the inside.
Because you can cook on both sides, it means you can cook a wider range of foods and build up a seasoning that will impart extra flavour in shellfish, meat, even bacon and pancakes.

Remember, the key is to season cast iron – never submerge it in water as it will cause it to rust. Wipe it clean and rub oil into it before and after every use and it will be your best friend on kamado.

Pros

  • Cast iron cooking results in flavoursome food
  • Lasts a lifetime
  • Versatile griddle cooking

Cons

  • It will corrode if it gets absorbs moisture; needs care to maintain a seasoned surface

Best BBQ drip pan

Stainless Steel Heavy Duty Drip PanSmokeware

Heavy duty and reusable, this heavy-duty drip pan helps to create moisture and flavour. Plus, it won't break or rust. This Stainless Steel Heavy Duty Drip Pan is available in a range of sizes and is sold by Smokeware Grill Shop on Etsy.

Customers praise this drip pan for being exactly as described by the seller, plus, it can be shipping internationally. The benefit is that it can be reused and it will impart delicious moisture and flavour in food that's cooking low and slow in a kamado oven.

Pros

  • Durable and heavy-duty
  • Easy to clean
  • Available in a range of sizes

Cons

  • The embossed logo might be hard to clean

Best enamelled deep pan for a BBQ

ENAMELLED DEEP PANBig Green Egg

Whether you're cooking up an aromatic curry or egg-fried rice on the grill, this deep-sided enamelled pan will do it justice. Add versatility to your kamado oven with this stylish and durable BBQ accessory.

Big Green Egg accessories are of the highest quality and the brand has attracted high profile fans, including Michelin starred chefs.

Whether you're catering for vegetarians or preparing a quick side dish on your Big Green Egg, this deep pan is a useful hardwearing accessory to have.

Pros

  • Adds deep pan cooking versatility to your Kamado grill
  • Durable and high quality
  • Easy to clean so it's low maintenance

Cons

  • Some customers find food sticks to the pan

Best vertical chicken roaster

WEBER Original Poultry roasterWeber
Price: $9.95
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=889d793cd9e1caf60df785cd2125b6cc&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=UExNFEQDHEwTThIfFAAKW1EWEhlbWg5LW0EdYgdUBkoVD1APCx4zC0wJRREYS2RfBRVDXUdMUAUEAgRbAVs%3D&x=v1&prdId=11189681173&barcode=CAgJUwAAAVdUCFQIVVM%3D
Alternative retailers
Lowe's$24.49View offer
Blain Farm & Fleet$24.49View offer

This stainless steel Weber Original Poultry Roaster allows you to roast chicken in a larger kamado oven. This gadget completely negates the need for a rotisserie system as heat circulates all around the bird giving you perfect crisp skin and moist meat every time. It's dishwasher safe for an easy clean.

Customers use this accessory to cook beer car chicken and praise how well poultry cooks on this accessory. It achieves a wonderfully crispy skin, whilst the meat remains succulent and is evenly cooked.

Of course, success does depend on the size of chicken you're cooking: too big and it won't balance on the roaster, plus the BBQ lid won't close.

If you have a smaller BBQ, a medium size chicken will be just fine. Simply, pop a can of beer or fizzy drink in the centre of the roaster and pop the chicken cavity over it.

Pros

  • Perfect for crispy chicken skin
  • Easier than a rotisserie
  • Clever use of the cooking space

Cons

  • Cannot read the customer reviews

How we chose the best Kamado grill

All of these Kamado grills have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered material, features and size in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching Kamado grills to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And, with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

What to consider when buying a Kamado grill

When it comes to cooking grates, there are three main options:

Stainless steel looks uber-smart and is easy to keep clean, but it doesn't give quite the same cooking results as cast iron. Cleaning an outdoor grill can be quite a task - which you need to be ready for.

Cast-iron plates are fantastic at conducting heat and will leave impressive sear marks on food, but their slightly pitted surfaces make them tricky to keep scrupulously clean.

Porcelain enamelled cast iron (or PECI) combines fast-to-heat qualities with an easy-clean surface, and while it's more expensive, it is exceptionally durable. You'll need to resist the temptation to scrape the plates, as this can damage the surface and lead to rusting. Instead, use a stainless-steel brush to remove any dirt, then soak in warm water with a mild non-citrus washing-up liquid and dry thoroughly with absorbent paper towels.

Consider what size is suitable for you and, as with any investment buy, how you'll use it in the future. Kamado grill grate sizes range from 28 cm to 61 cm. Smaller ones are perfect for two. Or, if you're looking for a nifty grill to move around the garden, there are also more sizeable designs that create a brilliant focal point for larger parties.

Lighting a Kamado type barbecue grill with an electrical charcoal
©Photo: Audrius Venclova / Getty

What features to look for

Most new grill designs come with handy innovations designed to make your cooking experience all the more enjoyable. After all, you're looking for the best Kamado grill for you - your lifestyle:

Side loading ports: Simple but a real game-changer, these hatches enable you to add smoke wood chips or extra coals without any heat loss.

Digital controls: Some of the latest models come with handy apps via Bluetooth connectivity to help monitor cooking temperatures and guide times. Some, such as the Everdure, feature touch-screen controls if you feel the need for precision.

Dimpled or fish-scale glaze: Besides looking good and oozing quality, the textured surface is said to prevent the glaze from cracking during thermal expansion.

Airlift hinges: The hoods of larger ceramic Kamado grills can be hefty to handle and can slam suddenly as a result. An airlift hinge lessens the load.

Prep and storage areas: Grills with built-in work and prep areas make cooking easier. Look out for designs with single or twin side shelves, utensil hooks and rails, storage racks, drawers or even roomy cupboards for storing coals.

Kamado grill FAQs

How do Kamado grills work?

Made from ceramic, shaped like an egg and encased in a highly weatherproof glaze, Kamado grills provide constant heat using minimal BBQ fuel. Charcoal is held safely in a firebox and, with air vents positioned above and below it, is repeatedly fanned by air being drawn through the lower opening before passing out via the upper. The result is constant glowing coals and an evenly heated cooking chamber that's easily regulated by the amount of air allowed through the adjustable vents. Thanks to the highly insulating ceramic body and hard glaze, these grills are also quick to heat up.
Perhaps, you're wondering: Are all Kamado grills the same? Well, aside from special features, functionality and colour, there isn't a great deal that sets them apart. Choose the right Kamado for your needs.

Can I use regular charcoal in Kamado Joe?

Kamado Joe suggests using premium hardwood lump charcoal to fuel your fire. They add: "Combustible liquids (starter fluid, etc.) will impart undesired flavours, damage your grill and create a fire hazard."
After all, the flavour of your food comes from the fuel; it'll taste better in a Kamado. This is thanks to "the innovative shape and air-circulating design" which can tenderise your chosen meat, adding a rich flavour.
Avoid using briquettes in a Kamado. As they can produce a lot of ash, briquettes can cause restricted airflow. An ash build-up is not what you want - as it'll lengthen your cooking and cleaning times.

Why should I invest in a Kamado grill?

The best Kamado grill is so much more versatile than a standard barbecue.
You can use it to grill, bake, smoke, stew, steam and fry, as well as enjoy succulent low-and-slow dishes, all with minimal fuss and monitoring. Choose where to position your grate, pizza stone or Dutch oven within the grill and its proximity to the coals. Adjust the vents to regulate the airflow and decide on the cooking time. Your food will be cooked to perfection without having to constantly check it. Thanks to the sealed cooking chamber, it'll be moist and imbued with delicious smoky flavours.
These distinctive grills are also highly fuel efficient, making them cheaper to run and kinder to the environment, too. Small amounts of charcoal will burn evenly and for much longer than with an open metal barbecue, plus little ash will be left behind, making the cleanup quicker and easier too.
If you're looking for the best Kamado grill recipes,Big Green Egg's Recipe Guide is fantastic. It's packed full of anything and everything - for all dietary requirements, from smoking to baking.

What are Kamado grills made of?

Most of today's products have a robust ceramic body encased in a high-gloss finish. Chosen for its insulating qualities, the actual material composition of the ceramic varies slightly depending on the manufacturer and can include lava rock grit, Portland cement and terracotta, all of which can influence the weight, size and overall cost of the grill.
Fired to extremely high temperatures, the ceramic body is sealed with either several coats of coloured glaze or a baked-on enamel covering to create a super-durable finish. Designed to withstand huge fluctuations of both internal and external temperatures without cracking, these ceramic grills are extremely long-lasting, but they can be cumbersome to move around, with extra large models weighing up to 113kg.
Many leading brands are now designing Kamado grills with dual- or triple-walled stainless-steel bodies instead of ceramic. While still brilliant at retaining heat, these models tend to be more affordable, lighter to move around and come with no risk of cracking. The downside is that they can have a much shorter lifespan than ceramic designs - no matter how well they're looked after, But, they are a great option if you want to try out this style of al fresco cooking.
On many grills, details such as handles and trims are made from steel. If this is an investment buy and you want them to last as long as the grill, look for rust-resistant type 304 stainless steel rather than cheaper
powder-coated steel.

Which is best: Green Egg or Kamado Joe?

In our round-up, two big brands are battling it out: Green Egg and Kamado Joe. But, which is best?
Why is Kamado Joe better than Green Egg? Or, has Green Egg taken the top spot? To answer these questions and for an in-depth look at these high-quality, passionate BBQ brands, we recommend RTA Ouliving's Kamado Joe vs Big Green Egg Guide, we can help you decide between the two.

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