By Patricia Danflous
Are you an EGGhead? If the answer is “yes,” you already know about the Big Green Egg Smoker and Grill and belong to the international fan group pledging loyalty to the ceramic cooker. Yes, the egg-shaped, green cooker has a fan club, with an annual EGGtoberfest saluting the outdoor device.
Introduced in the United States in 1974, the Green Egg is based on the kamado, a steam cooker that originated in southern Japan. Recognized for its versatility and unique design, the Green Egg is a barbecue grill, steamer, smoker and unique conversation piece in your backyard. Fueled by charcoal (lump wood charcoal is recommended), the Eggís ceramic composition provides for a strong, durable cooker and is recognized as one of the best heat insulation units on the market. The device includes a patented draft door and dual-function metal top, allowing for easily adjusted cooking temperatures from ultra high-heat searing to low-and-slow smoking. A permanent porcelain glaze ensures the signature green color will not fade or discolor under any weather conditions.
ìBring on the ingredients and I can cook just about anything on my Green Egg,î said one EGGhead, who appointed himself head chef for a family reunion. From traditional hamburgers and hotdogs to lasagna and jambalaya, the Green Egg appears to handle it all ó with no electricity and little clean up. The Green Egg is available in a variety of sizes, including the extra large, which features a 24-inch cooking grid and can accommodate a 20-lb. turkey. The recently introduced mini features a 9-inch grid and the capability to hold two chicken breasts, two pork chops or one steak.
Yes, buy one. Benefits include:
- Excellent heat retention
- No lighter fluid required
- Withstands temperatures from below 0 degrees F to 1,800 degrees F
- Safe cool surface, minimizing accidental burns
- Rustproof ceramic surface
- Enclosed cooking design allows for less monitoring
- Multi-functional
- Easy to move and store
- Extensive support and free recipes available on Big Green Egg website
- Extensive number of accessories and products to enhance cooking experience
- Don’t buy one if you are not willing to make a significant investment and only want a barbecue grill.
Note:
The Big Green Egg is costly – look at spending about $900 for the extra large, with the stand sold separately.
The Big Green Egg is sold through authorized dealers only.
