A kamado is a traditional Japanese wood or charcoal fueled cook stove. Modern versions of the cooker are produced and sold internationally. They are often marketed as grills for outdoor use.
Kamado grills are adapted from ancient Japanese grills (of the same name). These were used to cook rice and other Japanese delicacies but are really popular now for smoking.
This type of grill is perfect for low and slow cooking. Therefore, it essentially also makes it a smoker grill.
It’s actually in our post about the Blaze Kamado grill that you can check out.
The Kamado grill became famous in America after World War II. When US servicemen came to Japan, they adopted some Japanese traditions.
The egg-shaped design of the grill, its convenience, and its efficiency quickly captured the hearts of Americans. So, it became an American classic that is well-known throughout the country.
Although it’s technically a grill, the Kamado Joe BJ24RH Big Joe is used as a smoker to smoke the most delicious foods.
These Kamado Joe grills are made of ceramic and thus heat retention is excellent that’s why people love it for long smokes.
In this post we'll cover:
- 1 How they work
- 2 What is so great about a Kamado grill?
- 3 The Kamado Grill: A Tale of Ceramic Cooking and Chinese Origins
- 4 The Origins of the Kamado Grill: A Journey Through History
- 5 Choosing the Perfect Kamado Grill for Your Cooking Needs
- 6 Is Regular Charcoal Suitable for Your Kamado Grill?
- 7 Get Creative with Your Kamado Grill: Cooking Beyond the Basics
- 8 Keeping Your Kamado Grill Clean and Ready to Cook
- 9 Conclusion
How they work
Kamado grills work very similarly to other vertical smokers. You start it up by igniting the charcoal fuel at the bottom of the grill.
Then you place the heat diffuser on top. Next, cover the smoldering charcoal fuel beneath.
Afterward, set the grill grates and racks and close the lid. Then, open the air vents in order to enable the heat source to keep producing heat for smoking the meat (these are the top choices).
Advantages
- Kamado grills are excellent grills because of their ability to hit temperatures over 400° Celsius.
- They’re quite durable because they’re made of ceramic materials and will not easily crumble even when exposed to the elements.
- Kamado smoker grills also have good insulation and as a result, they have a better temperature retention capacity than most other grills in the market.
Disadvantages
- The popularity of kamado grills also caused them to be more expensive than other grills, but the materials cost to manufacture each kamado grill is also a factor in its pricey nature.
- The ceramic body of the grill cannot handle impact very well so these are grills you definitely don’t want to move around a lot.
- They’re quite heavy and require 2 or more people to carry them, especially when you need to move them around.
What is so great about a Kamado grill?
I know, people praise the Kamado grills quite a lot. So, what’s so great about them?
It has much thicker walls compared to other types, allowing for better heat retention and efficient cooking. The key to great cooking is to pre-heat the Kamado. The grill is extremely stable.
All you have to do is ensure that the grill has enough charcoal and oxygen. This way the grill cooks at low or high temperatures evenly.
Finally, a Kamado grill is very durable because it’s often made from ceramic compounds.
The Kamado Grill: A Tale of Ceramic Cooking and Chinese Origins
The Kamado grill, also known as the Big Green Egg for generations, has a long and fascinating history. While many people associate the Kamado grill with the hippie period of the early 1970s, its origins actually trace back much further- approximately 3,000 years ago, to be exact. It was during this time that the Chinese developed a ceramic cooking device that would eventually evolve into the Kamado grill we know and love today.
The Chinese Connection
It’s interesting to note that the Kamado grill has its roots in China, a fact that many people may not be aware of. The Chinese developed the original ceramic cooking device that would eventually become the Kamado grill, and this technology was passed down through the generations over time.
The Origins of the Kamado Grill: A Journey Through History
The word “kamado” is of Japanese origin and means “stove” or “cooking range”. It comes from the combination of two words: “kama” which means “cauldron” and “do” which means “place”. Therefore, “kamado” literally means “place for the cauldron”.
The Movable Kamado
After World War II, a movable kamado called “mushikamado” caught the attention of Americans. This type of kamado was made of clay and had a removable lid. It was used for cooking rice cakes and other traditional Japanese dishes. The Americans were so impressed by this movable kamado that they brought it back with them to the United States.
The Kamado Grill Today
Today, the kamado grill is a popular choice among grill enthusiasts. It is known for its versatility and ability to cook a wide variety of foods. Some of the most popular dishes to cook on a kamado grill include brisket, ribs, and pizza. The kamado grill is also known for its ability to retain heat, making it perfect for slow cooking and smoking.
Choosing the Perfect Kamado Grill for Your Cooking Needs
When looking for the perfect kamado grill, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Budget: Kamado grills can be expensive, with some models costing thousands of dollars. Determine your budget before starting your research.
- Size: Kamado grills come in different sizes, from smaller units to larger ones that can cook a lot of food at once. Consider how much cooking space you need.
- Shape: Kamado grills are traditionally round, but some models have a different shape. Decide which shape will work best for your needs.
- Material: Kamado grills can be made from clay or ceramic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so do your research before making a decision.
- Control: Look for a kamado grill that allows you to control the temperature easily. This means you can cook your food to perfection every time.
- Versatility: Kamado grills are versatile and allow you to grill, smoke, and even bake. Consider what types of food you want to cook and make sure the kamado grill you choose can handle it.
The Best Kamado Grills on the Market
There are plenty of kamado grills on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Here are some of the best kamado grills you can buy:
- Big Green Egg: This is the most popular kamado grill in the world and is produced by the Big Green Egg company. It’s expensive, but it’s also versatile and built to last.
- Kamado Joe: This is a similar kamado grill to the Big Green Egg, but it’s slightly less expensive. It comes with extra features included, such as a tool to remove ash and a built-in temperature gauge.
- Primo: This kamado grill is shaped differently than traditional kamado grills, with a longer, oval shape. It’s great for cooking larger pieces of meat and has plenty of cooking space.
- Vision Grills: This is a great budget option for those who want to try out a kamado grill without paying thousands of dollars. It’s easy to use and comes with a lot of extra pieces included.
Tips for Using Your Kamado Grill
Once you’ve chosen the perfect kamado grill for your needs, it’s time to start cooking! Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Practice makes perfect: Kamado grills require a bit of practice to master, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfectly.
- Proper cleaning: Make sure to clean your kamado grill after each use to ensure it lasts a long time. Remove any ash and clean the grates thoroughly.
- Adding wood: Adding wood to your kamado grill can create a lot of smoke, which means you need to be careful not to add too much. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Rice test: Before cooking any food, do a rice test to make sure your kamado grill is functioning properly. Cook a cup of white rice and notice how it turns out.
- Transform your food: Kamado grills can transform your food into something amazing. Try cooking pork or rice using ancient methods and notice the difference in taste.
- Pay attention to the sides: Kamado grills cook food evenly, but the sides can get very hot. Make sure to keep an eye on the sides to avoid burning your food.
Choosing the perfect kamado grill requires some research and preparation, but it’s certainly worth it in the end. With the right kamado grill, you can create amazing food and impress your friends and family.
Is Regular Charcoal Suitable for Your Kamado Grill?
When it comes to grilling, the type of charcoal you use can make a big difference in the flavor and quality of your food. There are two main types of charcoal: briquettes and lump charcoal. Briquettes are made from compressed sawdust and other materials, while lump charcoal is made from natural hardwood.
Why Lump Charcoal is Recommended for Kamado Grills
Kamado grills are designed to use lump charcoal because it burns hotter and longer than briquettes. This is because lump charcoal is made from natural hardwood, which has a higher density and burns cleaner than briquettes (these are the best to buy). Additionally, lump charcoal produces less ash than briquettes, which means less cleanup for you.
Get Creative with Your Kamado Grill: Cooking Beyond the Basics
Kamado grills are a type of ceramic charcoal barbecue that evolved from traditional Japanese mushikamado. The modern kamado grill consists of a ceramic shell, lid, and air vents that allow for precise temperature control. The ceramic material means that temperatures can be maintained for a long time, making it perfect for slow-cooking meat to perfection. The kamado grill’s biggest selling point is its versatility, making it perfect for cooking a wide range of foods, including:
- Brisket
- Pork
- Ribs
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Pulled pork (this BBQ smoker recipe for it is amazing)
- Pizza
- Rice
What Are the Benefits of Using a Kamado Grill?
Using a kamado grill brings a range of benefits, including:
- High-quality cooking: The kamado grill’s ceramic material means that it can maintain high temperatures for a long time, making it perfect for searing meat and creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Versatility: The kamado grill’s ability to maintain a range of temperatures means that it can be used for a wide range of cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, and even baking.
- Low charcoal consumption: The kamado grill’s efficient design means that it uses less charcoal than traditional grills, making it an eco-friendly option.
- Safety: The kamado grill’s ceramic material means that it is less likely to cause fires than traditional grills, making it a safer option for outdoor cooking.
What Are Some Special Cooking Techniques You Can Use with a Kamado Grill?
The kamado grill’s ability to maintain precise temperatures means that it is perfect for a range of special cooking techniques, including:
- Slow-cooking: The kamado grill’s ability to maintain low temperatures for a long time makes it perfect for slow-cooking meat to perfection.
- Steam cooking: The kamado grill’s ability to maintain high temperatures means that it can be used for steam cooking, making it perfect for cooking rice or vegetables in a steam pan.
- Ring cooking: The kamado grill’s ability to maintain different temperatures in different parts of the grill means that it can be used for ring cooking, making it perfect for cooking different types of food at the same time.
What Are Some Extra Tips for Cooking with a Kamado Grill?
To get the most out of your kamado grill, here are some extra tips:
- Choose the right charcoal: Kamado grills work best with high-quality lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes.
- Use the right parts: Kamado grills come with a range of accessories, including heat deflectors, pizza stones, and cast iron grates, which can help you create different cooking zones and get the most out of your grill.
- Control the air flow: The kamado grill’s air vents allow you to control the temperature inside the grill, so make sure to adjust them according to the recipe you’re cooking.
- Experiment with different recipes: With thousands of kamado grill recipes available online, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your next cookout. Try something new and see what you can create!
Keeping Your Kamado Grill Clean and Ready to Cook
Cleaning your kamado grill is essential for ensuring optimum performance and longevity. A dirty grill can affect the temperature and heat distribution, leading to lower cooking quality and longer cooking times. Plus, leaving dirt, ash, and grease inside the grill can cause cross-contamination of flavors, ruining the taste of your cooked food.
The Cleaning Process
Cleaning a kamado grill is a simple and easy process that needs to be done regularly. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Let the grill cool down: Before cleaning, make sure the grill is completely cool. This process can take a long time, so plan accordingly.
2. Remove the components: Take out the grates, deflector, and stone from the inside of the grill.
3. Brush off any stuck-on dirt: Use a brush to remove any dirt, ash, or stuck-on food from the inside of the grill.
4. Wipe down the inside: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the grill, removing any remaining dirt or ash.
5. Clean the grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates thoroughly. If they are particularly dirty, soak them in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing.
6. Clean the stone and deflector: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the stone and deflector, removing any dirt or ash.
7. Check the vents: Make sure the vents are clear of any dirt or ash, as this can affect the temperature and heat distribution.
8. Place the components back: Once everything is clean, place the grates, deflector, and stone back into the grill.
Deep Cleaning
If your kamado grill is particularly dirty or has mold or grease buildup, you may need to do a deep clean. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Heat the grill: Set the grill to a high temperature and let it burn for around 30 mins. This will help to burn off any remaining dirt or grease.
2. Brush off any remaining dirt: Use a brush to remove any remaining dirt or ash from the inside of the grill.
3. Wipe down the inside: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the grill, removing any remaining dirt or ash.
4. Clean the grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates thoroughly. If they are particularly dirty, soak them in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing.
5. Clean the stone and deflector: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the stone and deflector, removing any dirt or ash.
6. Check the vents: Make sure the vents are clear of any dirt or ash, as this can affect the temperature and heat distribution.
Self-Cleaning
Kamado grills are known for their self-cleaning capabilities. Here’s how to do it:
1. Heat the grill: Set the grill to a high temperature and let it burn for around 30 mins. This will help to burn off any remaining dirt or grease.
2. Close the lid: Close the lid and let the grill cool down completely.
3. Brush off any remaining dirt: Use a brush to remove any remaining dirt or ash from the inside of the grill.
4. Wipe down the inside: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the grill, removing any remaining dirt or ash.
5. Check the vents: Make sure the vents are clear of any dirt or ash, as this can affect the temperature and heat distribution.
Conclusion
So, that’s what a kamado grill is- a type of cooking device with a long history that originated in China and eventually evolved into the kamado grill we know and love today.
You can’t go wrong with a kamado grill if you’re looking for a versatile cooking device that can both grill and bake food. I hope this guide has helped you learn more about kamado grills and made the decision easier.
