This review dives into the effectiveness of the Kick Ash Basket and Can, two accessories designed to streamline the cleaning process of a Big Green Egg smoker. We put these products to the test over multiple grilling sessions, including a long low-and-slow cook, to assess their performance in various scenarios. From initial light ash removal to the aftermath of a substantial rib cook, we meticulously examined how well these accessories captured and contained ash, and how easy they were to use and clean. We also evaluate the included gloves and consider the overall convenience and time savings they offer.This honest assessment details the advantages and minor drawbacks of the Kick Ash system. We explore whether these accessories are truly essential additions to your Big Green Egg setup, or simply a convenient upgrade. Our experience with both the basket and can is presented with practical observations and recommendations, allowing you to determine if the Kick Ash system is a worthwhile investment for simplifying your post-grilling cleanup routine and enhancing your overall Big Green Egg experience.
Read more: Top 10 Cast Iron Grill Baskets: Our Best Picks
First Impressions: Ash Removal After Two Cooks
After two grilling sessions, I was eager to test the Kick Ash Basket and Can. The initial ash removal process was surprisingly easy. The majority of the ash was contained within the Kick Ash Basket, making it simple to remove and empty.
Using a cheap paintbrush from Harbor Freight, I swept any remaining ash into the can. This simple tool made a significant difference in collecting the loose ash particles.
Kick Ash Can Performance
The Kick Ash Can effectively captured the majority of the ash. Lifting it out, I observed minimal ash residue remaining in the Big Green Egg. I found the design of the can to be well-thought-out, facilitating easy ash collection and disposal.
There was a small amount of ash build-up along the front edge, which would require occasional cleaning. However, this was minimal compared to the amount collected by the can.
Low and Slow Cook Test
To thoroughly evaluate the system, I tested it after a low and slow rib cook. This cooking style produces a significant amount of ash. The Kick Ash Basket and Can handled this without issue, demonstrating their effectiveness even with extended cooking times.
The ease of cleaning after this longer cook was a major selling point. The accessories made quick work of the added ash, highlighting their value for various cooking styles.
Grate Cleaning Tool and Gloves
I also used a spiral style grate cleaner for cleaning my grates, which I found more efficient than traditional wood scrapers, especially with multiple grate types.
The Kick Ash branded gloves provided were durable and well-suited for the task. They kept my hands clean and protected from dirt and ash during the cleaning process. I would recommend using gloves for this task, regardless of the brand.
Overall Review and Conclusion
Both the Kick Ash Basket and Can are fantastic additions to my Big Green Egg setup. The basket significantly improves ash management during cooking, and the can makes cleanup incredibly efficient.
While not strictly necessary, they dramatically reduce cleaning time and improve overall convenience. I highly recommend both products to any Big Green Egg owner seeking to simplify the cleaning process. The time saved and overall convenience easily justify the investment.
