This article presents a head-to-head comparison of two popular methods for starting charcoal in a Kamado Joe grill: traditional fire starters and the Grill Blazer torch. The author, facing a long-standing family debate between the convenience of propane and the superior flavor of charcoal, sought a solution to the often lengthy charcoal ignition process. This quest led to a speed test designed to determine whether the investment in a Grill Blazer justifies its higher price tag compared to readily available fire starters. The experiment involved two nearly identical Kamado Joe Big Joe grills, ensuring a fair comparison, with careful attention paid to controlling variables such as charcoal type and target temperature.The results offer a clear winner in terms of speed, highlighting the significant time savings achieved using the Grill Blazer torch. This detailed review examines not only the time difference between the two methods but also explores the practical implications of this difference, weighing the benefits of speed against cost considerations. Ultimately, this article aims to help readers decide which charcoal starting method best suits their needs and preferences, providing valuable insights for both budget-conscious grillers and those who prioritize speed and efficiency.
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The Great Charcoal Grilling Debate: Speed vs. Convenience
For years, the debate raged in my household: the practicality of a charcoal smoker versus the speed of a propane grill. My wife preferred the instant gratification of propane, while I craved the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal. The long wait times associated with charcoal grilling were the main sticking point. It seemed impossible to enjoy a quick weeknight meal with a kamado.
This led me on a quest to find a faster way to achieve that delicious, clean smoke. I explored numerous methods, but today, we focus on two top contenders: conventional fire starters and the Grill Blazer torch.
The Contenders: Fire Starters and the Grill Blazer
For this test, we used Kamado Joe fire starters as a representative of the more affordable and readily available charcoal starting method. On the other hand, we have the Grill Blazer, a more expensive, but potentially faster, option. The question is: does the time saved justify the higher cost of the Grill Blazer?
To ensure a fair comparison, we employed two nearly identical Kamado Joe Big Joe grills. To mitigate the slight size difference, I used the smaller grill for the fire starter test to potentially offset the ceramic mass and heat-up time.
The Experiment: A Head-to-Head Time Trial
Both grills were prepared with the same amount of Fogo Super Premium charcoal. We aimed to reach a target temperature of 400°F (204°C). I used a timer to track the time it took each method to reach that temperature, ensuring consistent testing conditions.
Additionally, I used an infrared thermometer to check the external grill temperature, providing an objective measure of heat-up time. This helps verify the 'warm to the touch' assessment for more accurate results.
Results and Analysis: A Significant Time Difference
The Grill Blazer significantly outperformed the fire starters. The Grill Blazer reached 400°F in approximately 15 minutes, while the fire starters took significantly longer—around 40 minutes. This demonstrated a substantial time savings using the Grill Blazer.
It's important to acknowledge that the smaller grill was used for the fire starters, theoretically providing an advantage. Even considering this, the time difference remains significant, highlighting the Grill Blazer's efficiency.
Conclusion: Is the Grill Blazer Worth the Investment?
The Grill Blazer's speed is undeniable. The 25-minute time savings can be crucial for busy weeknights or spontaneous grilling sessions. While the initial investment is higher than fire starters, the convenience and time efficiency make it a worthwhile investment for many charcoal grill enthusiasts.
However, the decision ultimately depends on individual needs and priorities. If quick grilling is paramount, the Grill Blazer is a top choice. But those who prioritize budget over speed might be content with using fire starters and a little more patience.