Backyard Blogging.

You know how to use your Big Green Egg, but did you know there are some tricks to enhance your cook? In this article, we look at six tips to enhance your grilling.

Tip #1:  Have a Full Load of Natural Lump Charcoal

The most important thing you can do is start with a full load of lump charcoal. You’ll want to have five pounds in your Big Green Egg, lit and ready.

It’s also a good idea to have some extra on hand at all times.

Tip #2: Leave Your Vents and Lid Open

As you are lighting your charcoal, leave your vents open. In addition, you want to keep the lid of your Big Green Egg open for the first five-10 minutes.

After that time, close your lid as you bring it to temperature. You can expect this to take 15-20 minutes unless it’s winter, when it may take a bit longer.

Tip #3: Don’t Forget to Burp the Egg

Yes,  that’s right. You need to “burp” your Egg once it reaches its temperature and before you throw the lid open.

You want to simply raise the lid a few inches. This releases the heat. Then, lower the lid. Repeat this several times so you don’t get blasted by the hot air.

Tip #4: Set Your EGG for Direct Grilling

When you direct grill your steaks, hamburgers, pork chops, and more, you want to preheat your EGG to 600-700 degrees.

Your coals should all be lit. You want to have both the bottom and top vents wide open.

Sear your steak/meat for about two minutes per side, giving them a small turn. Then, lower your lid.

As the juices from the meat drip on your coals, the lid traps the smoke and seals in the moisture. It makes for quicker cooking time and a more delicious piece of meat.

Tip #5: Add a ConvEGGtor

When you are smoking or indirect grilling on your EGG, you want to use a convEGGtor (you can get this from Ultra Modern).

The convEGGtor is basically a plate setter with three legs that fits in the bottom of your EGG’s firebox. You can put it in upside down with the legs up.

Tip #6: Use Hardwood

If you’re smoking on the EGG, and you want a really strong smoky flavor, add three-five chunks of your favorite hardwood on top of the unlit coals.

Ready for your own Big Green Egg, or do you have questions? We can help!