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Charcoal grills are combustion appliances designed to and cook food over charcoal or briquettes.
The popular charcoal kettle grill was invented in 1951 by American entrepreneur named George Stephen.
Various styles and shapes have been developed since then, but they all follow the same principle.
Burning charcoal as fuel below metal cooking grates, that heats and cooks food from underneath.
There are a few different types of charcoal grills.
- Kettle grills. These grills are the most popular. They come in a round shape with a lid that can be closed for smoking or slow-cooking, as well as grilling. They usually have a venting system to control the temperature.
- Barrel grills. These grills come in a barrel shape, with a large cooking area and a have a separate firebox where to place the charcoal.
- Ceramic grills. These grills are made from heat-retaining ceramic, it allows for even cooking and temperature control. They can be used for a many of cooking styles, grilling, smoking and roasting.
When using a charcoal grill, it’s important to have the charcoal properly lit and allow the grill to fully heat up before any food is placed on the grates.
The temperature can be controlled by adjusting the vents or adding or removing charcoal.
It’s also important to properly clean and maintain the grill to ensure it lasts for many seasons of outdoor cooking.
There are endless charcoal grills on today’s market, but in this article we are going to recommend four models that are suitable for an outdoor kitchen.
Best Charcoal Grill for Outdoor Kitchen – What we Recommend
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Charcoal Grills and Their Benefits
Charcoal grills are a popular option for outdoor cooking and offer a number of benefits, including.
- Flavor. The rich, smoky taste you get from charcoal grills cannot be replicated with gas or electric ones. And if you need further convincing, consider this, 71% of American grillers prefer charcoal grills and smokers for the enhanced flavor they bring.
- Precise Control. Your steaks are cooking fast while the potatoes are taking their time. What do you do? Just move the steaks to the cooler side away from the charcoal. Your meat can rest and soak up the smoky goodness, while you can cook an array of foods with ease on a single charcoal grill.
- Value for money. Charcoal grills are much more cheaper than gas grills, and charcoal is a cheap source of fuel when compared to natural gas and propane.
- Portability. While gas grills owners struggle with lugging heavy propane tanks or extension cords, you can simply wheel your charcoal grill your car, or move in your garden with ease.
- Quick Ignition. If starting a fire seems complicated matter,don’t worry. A basic charcoal chimney, newspaper, and a match can have you cooking over hot coals in 15 minutes. The days of lighter fluid and precarious flames are over.
- High Heat. Charcoal grills burn hotter than their counterparts, giving you that perfect crispy outer layer and succulent interior. A true grill master knows how to harness the flames to their advantage, you can even cook meat slowly over indirect heat for hours, resulting in rich smoky flavors and juicy textures.
- Easy Repairs. Basic charcoal grills are simple to repair, but when it comes to electric, gas, or pellet grills, repairs can be much more complex and challenging.
Why People Love Charcoal Grilling
71% of American grillers prefer charcoal grilling over gas grilling for a variety of reasons.
With out a doubt the main reason is purely and simply for the char grilled taste.
Other grills come close, but nothing will replicate it.
Charcoal grilling is a strong American culture, nothing beats summer evenings with cold beers around charcoal grills.
According to reports there are more than 30 million charcoal grills owned by Americans,
This makes it the most favorite cooking appliance in many patios.
Weber is one of America’s prefered brand, the inventors of the classic kettle grill, but since then many brands have propped up that have become staple names in the charcoal grilling industry.
Brands like Char-griller, Dyna-Glo, Kamado Joe, and Big Green Egg are among others.
Additionally, many love the direct hands-on nature of charcoal grilling and the sense of controlling it gives a much more satisfing cooking process.
Benefits of Having an Outdoor Kitchen
- Save on Energy Costs. Using an indoor kitchen during hot summer months can increase your electric bill due to the extra heat, causing the air conditioner to work harder. Cooking outdoors keeps the air cooler and reduces energy bills.
- Perfect for Entertaining Outdoor. Kitchens provide a spacious area for guests to gather while the food is being prepared. With mood music, lighting, and comfortable outdoor furniture, it creates a perfect social gathering area, unlike the limited space of an indoor kitchen.
- Keep Odors Outside. Cooking outside prevents unpleasant smells from entering your home and sticking to furniture and clothing. Strong smells, such as fish or deep-fried foods, can linger for days, especially during the summer heat. The smells may also dissipate into the air from the garden or neighboring farms.
- Increases Home Value. An outdoor kitchen is a valuable investment that yields a high return on investment, especially when made with high-quality materials and appliances. It provides a lifetime of entertainment and enjoyment, designed to withstand tough weather conditions.
- Save on Eating Out. An outdoor kitchen provides an attractive space to cook and dine, reducing the need to go out to eat. It saves money and makes for an easy “drive” to and from dinner. Enhances Food Flavor and Health Grilling enhances the taste of all foods, while also being a healthier cooking technique that reduces calories from fat. The high heat from the grill helps retain moisture, creating unique flavors not possible in an indoor kitchen.
- Expands Living Space. Outdoor kitchens provide more room for guests to gather and enjoy the outdoors. By adding outdoor lounge furniture or patio dining sets, prepping food becomes a group activity, making it perfect for hosting lively parties or intimate dinners.
- Simplifies Cooking. Cooking outside eliminates smoke filling up your home and keeps the indoor kitchen cool. It also eliminates lingering odors from seafood and reduces utility bills. With everything you need conveniently outside, such as ice makers and refrigerators, you save time with trips in and out of the house.
- Boosts Resale Value. Outdoor kitchens are a luxury feature that makes a home more marketable, increasing its resale value. If your backyard is small, build the outdoor kitchen accordingly as prospective home buyers also appreciate open outdoor space.
- Enjoy the Outdoors. No matter where you live, an outdoor kitchen lets you enjoy the fresh air and the outdoors. It’s beneficial for your health, lowering stress and mental fatigue, and in areas with long winters, it lets you treasure your time outdoors.
Best Charcoal Grill for Outdoor Kitchen
There are so many great charcoal grills on today’s market, but here are four models that are highly recommended for an outdoor kitchen.
- Weber Summit Charcoal Grill
Here are some key points that describe the Weber Summit Charcoal Grill.
- Premium Construction. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is built to last, with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. It features a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, which provide excellent heat retention and durability. The grill also has a heavy-duty stainless steel hinged cooking grate, a stainless steel one-touch cleaning system, and a durable steel cart with heavy-duty wheels for easy mobility.
- Dual Fuel Capability. One of the standout features of the Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is its dual fuel capability. It can be used as a charcoal grill or a smoker, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred cooking method. The grill features a large, easy-to-use charcoal fuel grate that allows you to adjust the height of the charcoal for precise heat control, and a gas ignition system that makes lighting the charcoal quick and easy.
- Gourmet BBQ System. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill comes with Weber’s Gourmet BBQ System, which includes a hinged stainless steel cooking grate with a removable center section that can be replaced with other Weber accessories, such as a griddle, wok, or pizza stone. This allows you to expand your cooking options and create a wide variety of delicious meals.
- Excellent Heat Control. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is designed to provide precise heat control, allowing you to achieve perfect results every time you grill. It features a built-in lid thermometer for monitoring the temperature, and adjustable dampers on the bowl and lid that allow you to fine-tune the airflow and control the heat. The grill also has a smoke setting that allows you to easily smoke meats and other foods to perfection.
- Spacious Cooking Area. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill offers a generous cooking area, with a 24-inch diameter cooking grate that provides plenty of space for grilling large cuts of meat, multiple racks of ribs, or a variety of foods at once. The grill also has a warming rack that provides additional space for keeping cooked foods warm while you finish grilling.
- Convenient Features. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is packed with convenient features that make grilling easier and more enjoyable. It has a large, easy-to-read fuel gauge that shows the remaining fuel level, a built-in lid holder that allows you to hang the lid on the side of the grill when not in use, and a charcoal storage bin that keeps your charcoal dry and easily accessible. The grill also has a tool hook, a wire basket for storing accessories, and a removable ash catcher for easy cleanup.
- Durability and Warranty. The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is built to last, with high-quality materials and construction. It comes with a 10-year limited warranty, which provides peace of mind and assurance of its durability and performance.
In summary, the Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is a premium outdoor cooking appliance that offers excellent heat control, versatile cooking options, and convenient features.
Its dual fuel capability, gourmet BBQ system, and durable construction make it a top choice for serious grilling enthusiasts who demand the best in performance and quality.
Kamado Joe Classic II Charcoal Grill
- Ceramic Construction. The Kamado Joe Classic II is made from high-quality, durable ceramic that provides excellent heat retention and insulation. The ceramic walls of the grill are thick and heavy, which helps to lock in heat and moisture, making it ideal for various cooking techniques, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. The ceramic construction also gives the grill a sleek, modern look that adds style to any outdoor cooking space.
- Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its patented Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This unique system allows you to customize the cooking surface by using different levels of grates and heat deflectors, giving you the ability to cook multiple foods at different temperatures simultaneously. It also enables you to set up different heat zones for searing, indirect cooking, and smoking, providing ultimate versatility in cooking options.
- Excellent Heat Control. The Kamado Joe Classic II provides precise heat control, allowing you to easily adjust the temperature to achieve perfect results. It features a top vent and a bottom vent that allow you to fine-tune the airflow, controlling the heat and smoke levels inside the grill. The built-in thermometer on the dome lid provides accurate temperature readings, allowing you to monitor your cooking with ease.
- Large Cooking Surface. The Kamado Joe Classic II offers a large cooking surface, with a 18-inch diameter stainless steel cooking grate that provides ample space for grilling large cuts of meat, multiple racks of ribs, or a variety of foods at once. The grill also has a second level stainless steel grate for additional cooking space, and you can use the Divide & Conquer system to further customize the cooking surface to suit your needs.
- Premium Accessories. The Kamado Joe Classic II comes with premium accessories that enhance your grilling experience. It includes a patented slide-out ash drawer for easy ash removal, a stainless steel charcoal basket for efficient fuel management, a stainless steel cart with locking casters for easy mobility, and a durable powder-coated aluminum side shelves that provide convenient workspace.
- Versatility and Flavor. The Kamado Joe Classic II is known for its versatility and ability to add exceptional flavor to food. The ceramic construction and precise temperature control allow you to sear, smoke, roast, and bake a wide variety of foods, creating delicious meals with authentic wood-fired flavor. The grill is also compatible with a wide range of Kamado Joe accessories, such as a pizza stone, a rotisserie kit, and a cast iron griddle, which further expand your cooking options.
- Durability and Warranty. The Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last, with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty on the ceramic parts, and a 5-year warranty on the metal parts, providing peace of mind and assurance of its durability and performance.
In summary, the Kamado Joe Classic II Charcoal Grill is a premium outdoor cooking appliance that offers exceptional heat control, versatility, and durability.
Its ceramic construction, Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, and premium accessories make it a top choice for grilling enthusiasts who appreciate outstanding performance and flavor in their outdoor cooking.
Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Grill
Here are some key points that describe the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Grill.
- Durable Construction. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is constructed with triple-walled 22-gauge steel that provides durability and excellent heat retention. The exterior is coated with a powder-coated finish that protects against rust and weather elements, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Insulated Design. The insulated design of the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker helps to retain heat efficiently, allowing for precise temperature control and fuel efficiency. The triple-walled steel construction and tight-sealing gasket on the lid help to trap heat and smoke inside, creating a stable cooking environment for various cooking techniques like grilling, smoking, baking, and searing.
- Adjustable Dampers. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker features adjustable dampers on the top and bottom vents, allowing you to easily control the airflow and temperature inside the grill. This enables you to fine-tune the heat and smoke levels to achieve your desired cooking results, making it versatile for different cooking styles and recipes.
- Large Cooking Surface. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker offers a 20-inch diameter cast iron cooking grate that provides ample cooking space for grilling a variety of foods, including large cuts of meat, vegetables, and more. The cast iron grate is durable and retains heat well, creating excellent grill marks and sear on your food.
- Ash Pan and Dump Ash Pan. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker features a convenient ash pan and dump ash pan design, making ash cleanup a breeze. The ash pan collects ash and prevents it from falling into the bottom of the grill, making cleanup quick and easy. The dump ash pan allows you to easily dispose of the collected ash, ensuring a clean and mess-free grilling experience.
- Folding Side Shelves. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker comes with durable folding side shelves that provide convenient workspace for food prep, grilling tools, and accessories. The shelves can be folded down when not in use, saving space and making it easy to store the grill in tight spaces.
- Easy Mobility. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is equipped with two large wheels and two locking casters, making it easy to move the grill around your patio or deck. The locking casters provide stability and ensure that the grill stays in place during cooking, providing added safety.
- Affordable Price. One of the standout features of the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is its affordable price compared to other kamado-style grills on the market. It offers a great value for those who want to experience the benefits of a kamado-style grill without breaking the bank.
In summary, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Grill is a durable and versatile option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to experience the unique capabilities of a kamado-style grill.
Its insulated design, adjustable dampers, large cooking surface, and convenient features make it a great option for grilling, smoking, baking, and more.
Plus, its affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of budget-conscious grillers.
- Rösle Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill
Here are some key points that describe the Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill.
- Innovative Air Control System. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill features an innovative air control system that allows for precise temperature control. It has a unique air intake and exhaust system that enables you to easily adjust the airflow and control the heat levels, allowing you to achieve perfect cooking results every time.
- High-Quality Construction. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill is made from high-quality materials, including stainless steel and enamel-coated steel, which ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The stainless steel body and components are resistant to rust, corrosion, and wear, making the grill built to last.
- Large Cooking Surface. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill offers a spacious cooking surface of 22 inches in diameter, providing ample space for grilling a variety of foods, including large cuts of meat, vegetables, and more. The large cooking surface allows you to cook for a crowd or prepare multiple dishes at once.
- Dual Grilling Zones. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill features dual grilling zones, allowing you to create different heat zones for various cooking techniques. This enables you to sear, grill, or smoke different foods simultaneously, providing versatility in your cooking options.
- Easy Ash Cleanup. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill comes with an ash catcher system that makes ash cleanup quick and easy. The ash catcher collects ash and debris, preventing it from falling into the bottom of the grill and making cleanup a breeze.
- Convenient Features. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill is packed with convenient features, including a lid-mounted thermometer that allows you to monitor the internal temperature of the grill without lifting the lid, a removable ash catcher for easy cleanup, and a hinged grate that makes adding charcoal or wood chips during cooking hassle-free.
- Stylish Design. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill features a sleek and modern design that adds a touch of elegance to any outdoor cooking space. Its stainless steel construction and enamel-coated steel body give it a premium and stylish look that is sure to impress.
- Easy Mobility. The Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill is equipped with two large wheels, making it easy to move around your patio or deck. The wheels are sturdy and provide smooth mobility, allowing you to transport the grill with ease.
In summary, the Rösle AIR Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill is a top-quality charcoal grill with innovative features, durable construction, and convenient design elements.
Its large cooking surface, dual grilling zones, and easy ash cleanup make it a versatile and user-friendly option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who demand high performance and durability from their grills.
Ultimately, the best charcoal grill for an outdoor kitchen will solely depend on your needs and likes.
Important factors to consider when purchasing a charcoal grill are, size, features, budget, color, material, and moblity amongst others.