Should You Use a Big Green Egg Grill for Slow Cooking? The Pros and Cons of This Ceramic Grill

Last updated on April 8th, 2023 at 04:09 pm

If you’re a fan of outdoor cooking, chances are you’ve heard of the Big Green Egg grill. This unique ceramic grill has gained a cult-like following among barbecue enthusiasts, and for good reason. Not only can it handle high-heat grilling, but it also excels at low-and-slow cooking.

However, the Big Green Egg comes with a hefty price tag, and you may be wondering if it’s worth the investment. We’re diving into the pros and cons of using a Big Green Egg, including how it performs when it comes to slow cooking. Let’s get started! 

Launched in 1974, Big Green Egg grill has grown in popularity over the years. This ceramic grill gets its inspiration from Japanese clay cookers known as kamados. The thick glazed ceramic protects the grill from the elements while ensuring foods have the optimal conditions as they cook. 

So, why might a person be considering a Big Green Egg Grill? The features found in this type of ceramic grill definitely stand out in a crowd. Many people like the Big Green Egg grill for slow cooking, while others are sold on the lifetime warranty.

Depending on your needs, you have several models to choose from, but the grill does come with some drawbacks you should know about. 

The Pros and Cons of the Big Green Egg Grill

The Warranty

The Big Green Egg grill features a limited lifetime warranty, so buyers know they will never need to purchase a new grill again. The high-quality materials ensure this unit holds up with time, so the warranty most likely won’t be needed. However, it is nice to have. 

Using the Big Green Egg Grill for Slow Cooking

The Big Green Egg is a versatile grill that excels in slow cooking, thanks to its ceramic construction and design. Here are some of the reasons why it’s a great choice for low-and-slow cooking:

• Retains heat:

• The thick walls of the Big Green Egg allow it to hold heat exceptionally well, making it perfect for slow cooking. Once it reaches the desired temperature, it can maintain that temperature for hours on end, without needing much adjustment.

• Precise temperature control:

• The Big Green Egg comes equipped with vents that allow for precise temperature control. You can easily adjust the airflow to maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for slow cooking.

• Moisture retention:

• The ceramic construction of the Big Green Egg also helps to retain moisture in your food, resulting in tender and juicy meats. The moisture that’s released during cooking is trapped inside the grill, circulating back into your food and keeping it moist.

Overall, the Big Green Egg’s ability to retain heat and moisture, combined with its precise temperature control, make it an excellent choice for slow cooking.

Whether you’re smoking brisket, cooking a pork shoulder, or making a batch of pulled pork, using the Big Green Egg grill for slow cooking can help you achieve mouth-watering results.

Big Green Egg Grill Models

People shopping for these grills will find a wide range of models to chose from. Whatever your specific needs, you’ll find a model that’s right for you. The 2XL is the biggest model offered today. A person can cook up to 40 burgers or 16 whole chickens simultaneously with this model. 

The Green Egg Mini, in contrast, can cook two chicken breasts at one time or one steak. Most people find this model won’t be big enough for regular use, as it can’t cook dinner for the average family. Nevertheless, this unit is ideal for tailgating or an apartment balcony. 

The company offers several other models to choose from too, including the Large and Small models. Do a little research to find the right one for your needs. 

Direct and Indirect Heat Options

Direct heat is ideal for cooking many foods. It mimics the grilling technique used in gas and charcoal grills. People use this grilling method when they want directional heat or when they wish to sear meat. This leads to the caramelization of the food, which is something many people love. You can stir fry or saute foods on the grill using this method. 

Indirect heat, on the other hand, allows the user to direct the heat of the charcoal. The ceramic used to construct the grill then absorbs this heat and radiates it. As a result, the heat is more uniform. In fact, by positioning the legs of the plate setter down, a person can even use the grill for baking. 

The Drawbacks of the Big Green Egg Grill

Before purchasing a Big Green Egg grill, understand that this unit is extremely heavy. Once it’s in place, most people choose not to move it again unless they absolutely have to. You’ll want to make certain there is a spot for the grill to sit permanently. 

In addition, the high sticker price surprises many buyers. Since the grill should last a lifetime, people need to consider how much they would spend replacing a less expensive grill. With this information, they can decide which option better meets their needs. However, once a person sees how much this gill can do, they may find it is worth the higher initial cost. 

So, when the time comes to replace your grill, these are some of the things to consider if you’re thinking about the Big Green Egg Grill.

Do you have one of these grills, or have you been considering one? Do you use your Big Green Egg grill for slow cooking? Leave us a comment below.

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