How The EGG Works
The Big Green Egg is a modern is a Kamado. A kamado is a ceramic cooker that uses natural charcoal to create rich, smoky flavours gas grills can’t match. Inspired by ancient clay ovens, it’s simpler than you think: light the charcoal, adjust the vents, and cook anything from steaks to cakes.
All cookers need heat, so let’s start there. Simply add charcoal, create a small pile, and light it with our natural fire starters. The fire will establish itself over 10–15 minutes with the vents and lid open, setting the stage for your cooking adventure.
Next, air enters through our iconic, patented, precision-flow draft door, letting you control the firebox’s airflow. Air exits via the rEGGulator Vent Cap—adjust it to trap or release heat, or close it to shut down. These weather- and rust-resistant vents ensure precise temperature control for perfect cooking.
Air then flows through the cast-iron fire grate into the ceramic firebox, both built to handle extreme heat. The grate allows airflow while dropping ash for easy cleanup. The firebox holds burning charcoal, using proven technology to prevent cracking and ensure a steady, flavor-rich heat source.
The most EGGcellent part of the Big Green Egg, our ConvEGGtor® converts your kamado grill into a pizza oven, smoker, or slow roaster. Place it feet up or down above the fire for direct or indirect cooking. Crafted from NSF-certified ceramics, it ensures optimal temperature control and retention.
If you can think of it, you can cook it on the EGG. It’s not just a grill—it’s multifaceted. Use searing grids, roasting trays, pizza stones, or saucepans. With over 50 cooking configurations, you can set half the Egg for roasting and half for searing, offering endless versatility.
Our signature green, dimpled exterior is crafted by artisans in our award-winning Mexico factory. Designed for optimal heat distribution, it features a weatherproof coating and a lifetime warranty. The ceramic retains heat and moisture, locking in and enhancing your food’s flavor.
Once you’ve lit your charcoal, set your cooking mode, and placed your food, our patented realignment system ensures the EGG dome aligns perfectly each time. Spring-loaded for easy lifting and gentle closure, the rust-proof, coated-alloy hinges resist heat expansion, guaranteeing a lifetime of reliable performance.
FAQs
What can you cook on a Big Green Egg?
Almost anything! A more appropriate question is what can't the Big Green Egg cook. The most common meals we see our Eggheads cooking are steak, roast, brisket, pizza, cakes, bread, curry, burgers, roast, paella, stir fry, casserole and smoked seafood.
What makes the Big Green Egg different from other grills?
Its ceramic construction retains heat and moisture better than metal grills, ensuring juicy food. It’s highly versatile, supports multiple cooking styles, and is fuel-efficient due to excellent insulation. The design is based on ancient kamado cookers, refined for modern use.
How long does it take to heat up a Big Green Egg?
It typically takes 15 minutes to reach cooking temperature. For high-heat grilling (600°F/316°C), it may take slightly less. For low-and-slow smoking (225°F/107°C).
Can beginners use a Big Green Egg?
Yes, we all start as beginners and in no time become EGGsperts. With anything new, learning can take time. In particular, temperature control can take some practice, but you'll have fun doing it.
How long does a Big Green Egg last?
With proper care, a BGE can last decades. The ceramic body is durable, and the lifetime warranty on the ceramic parts (for the original owner) covers cracks or defects, though accessories and metal parts may need occasional replacement.
What sizes does the Big Green Egg come in?
We have five models: MiniMax, Medium, Large, XL, and 2XL. The Large is the most popular, suitable for most households. You can explore the difference's by clicking here.