Kamado Joe Kettle Joe 22-inch Charcoal Grill review with SloRoller smoker insights

Description

First Impressions of the Kamado Joe Kettle Joe KJ15040320

The Kamado Joe Kettle Joe 22-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill immediately grabbed my attention with its striking blaze red finish and sturdy stainless steel construction. It’s not just a grill; it’s a statement piece for any outdoor cooking setup. As someone who loves experimenting with different cooking styles, the 2-Tier Divide & Conquer system intrigued me right off the bat. This flexible cooking system promised the ability to cook various dishes simultaneously at different temperatures—a feature I was eager to try.

Design and Build Quality

What stood out to me was the thoughtful design and robust build of this charcoal grill. The 22-inch cooking surface offers ample space for grilling, while the ceramic firebox is a game-changer for heat retention and fuel efficiency. The adjustable air vent and built-in thermometer made temperature control straightforward, even for a perfectionist like me. The inclusion of a 4-legged cart with locking casters adds both mobility and stability, making it convenient to move around my patio without fear of tipping over. However, the grill is on the heavier side, weighing in at 106.5 pounds, which might be challenging for some to assemble or relocate without help.

The hinged lid design deserves special mention. It eliminates the hassle of removing the lid entirely, a common pain point with traditional kettle grills. Adjusting the hinge to accommodate the SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber was seamless, allowing me to switch between smoking and high-heat grilling with ease.

Cooking Performance

Cooking on this grill was nothing short of impressive. The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber utilizes cyclonic airflow technology, creating an evenly distributed smoke and heat environment. I tested it with a brisket, and the results were phenomenal. The meat came out tender, smoky, and full of flavor, with no hot spots or uneven cooking. When I removed the SlōRoller and lowered the hinge, the grill reached temperatures up to 700°F, perfect for searing steaks and achieving that elusive, crispy crust.

The 2-Tier Divide & Conquer system is a standout feature. I simultaneously grilled vegetables on the upper rack while cooking burgers below, and both turned out perfectly. The 363 square inches of cooking space felt more than adequate for a medium-sized gathering, but I can see how larger families might find it slightly limiting.

Advantages

The Kamado Joe Kettle Joe has several key benefits that make it a worthy investment for grilling enthusiasts:

• Efficient heat retention thanks to its ceramic firebox, which uses less charcoal.
• Versatility with the ability to smoke at up to 500°F or grill at 700°F.
• Hinged lid design, eliminating the need to fully remove the lid while cooking.
• Durability with stainless steel components and a painted finish for weather resistance.

Caveats

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas for improvement to consider:

• The grill’s weight (106.5 pounds) makes it less portable compared to lighter models.
• Assembly is required, and it can be time-consuming without a second pair of hands.
• The cooking surface area might feel limiting for users who frequently cater to larger groups.

Other Options

In comparison to product competitors, such as the Weber Original Kettle Premium and the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado, the Kamado Joe Kettle Joe holds its own. The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber is a unique feature that sets it apart from the simpler design of the Weber. However, the Weber is lighter and easier to move, making it a better choice for those prioritizing portability. The Char-Griller Akorn offers similar heat retention capabilities but falls short in versatility, lacking the 2-Tier Divide & Conquer system that the Kettle Joe boasts.

Worth Every Penny?

When assessing the price to quality ratio, the Kettle Joe offers exceptional value for its features. It’s not the cheapest grill on the market, but the innovative design and multi-functionality justify the investment. For anyone serious about outdoor cooking, this grill delivers reliable performance and unmatched versatility, making it hard to overlook.

The Kamado Joe Kettle Joe is a grill that blends style, functionality, and innovation, making it a fantastic addition to any backyard setup.

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