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Selecting your fuel-Hardwood Charcoal
Kamado grills perform best with the use of hardwood charcoal as the fuel. This is dissimilar to charcoal
briquettes in that it is only the charred down wood without the additives found in processed charcoal briquettes.
This fuel source provides the most controllable temperature settings as the burn of the hardwood charcoal is
directly dependent on the oxygen you feed it. This allows the kamado grill to achieve and maintain both low and
high temperatures for long periods of time. The addition of flavored woods with the hardwood charcoal is an
option to impart various smoky flavors while cooking.
Selecting your fuel- Charcoal Briquettes
Although this fuel source lessens most of what folks get a kamado grill for (the control of heat and
temperature), there is no danger to the product in using this fuel source. The nostalgic smell of charcoal
briquettes burning or possibly the last minute lack of hardwood charcoal at the local convenience store are both
possible reasons why this fuel source might come into play.
Selecting your fuel- True Hardwoods
Although this fuel source doesn't provide the same level of control of heat and temperature as hardwood
charcoal, there is no danger to the product in using this fuel source. This fuel source typically requires a bed of
coal or small kindling as a starter for the hardwoods. Always use seasoned/dried hardwoods as your fuel.
Selecting your fuel- Other
Other fuel options are strictly prohibited as they could damage your grill or possibly be dangerous.
Arrangement of your charcoal/fuel source:
Air flow is the largest factor and most important consideration when arranging your fuel source. Although
leftover charcoal can be re-used from the previous cookout, the smaller bits and ashes should be removed as
to not reduce the amount of air moving through the grill. Before adding additional fuel, stir the existing coals to
force the smaller parts and ashes into the bottom of the grill. Creating an easy flow of air through the unit will
prevent problems associated with a difficulty to achieve higher cooking temperatures. This is a good time to
dump your ash tray. Keeping your ash tray clean is also key to keeping good air flow as a buildup of ash will
prevent air flow.
When adding charcoal, avoid adding the small parts typically found in the bottom of the bag. These parts along
with the bottom of the bag debris can drastically prohibit air flow and create a discharge of ash and embers
from the lower air intake. It is recommended not to pour the bag out into the grill and instead scoop out the
larger pieces and add into the grill. Remember always use protective gloves when adding and arranging any
fuel source.
Selecting your Ignition Method
Dissimilar from other kamado grills, there is no danger of damaging your kamado using standard charcoal grill
lighter fluid. Selecting your ignition method for your coals is based upon personal preference and cooking
temperature. A few examples of ignition methods can be found below:
Using the Grill
Blaze Outdoor Products Instructional Book
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