Awarded a BBC Gardeners' World Best Buy, this iconic barbecue is a multitasking piece of kit that grills, smokes, bakes and roasts. A true investment piece, the barbecue function is excellent, taking just 20 minutes to get up to heat and producing delicious, succulent food. It's ideal for anyone who takes outdoor cooking seriously.
Buy the Big Green Egg on Amazon
Buy Big Green Egg lump charcoal on Amazon
Is the Big Green Egg barbecue easy to assemble?
You can choose to pay for your Egg to come preassembled, which is an extra charge of £50, or opt for their White Glove Delivery service, where it is delivered and assembled to your garden, followed by a tour of how it works. Otherwise, you will need to assemble it yourself. Instructions are included in the box with the Egg and there are clear videos on their website to show you how to put the ceramic oven and grill together and assemble the handle, steel rim and lid. It's a step by step process but the Egg is heavy and needs handling carefully.
What is the Big Green Egg barbecue like to use?
This is an extremely versatile grill, which unlike other charcoal barbecues is ceramic. The aptly named egg-shaped case and hood are lined with NASA-inspired high-grade ceramics so it locks in all-round heat and it can reach soaring temperatures or hold an extremely low one for many hours with high precision. Setting up the barbecue is fairly simple. After inserting the firebox, filling with charcoal and lighting, it's ready to use in about 20 minutes. The temperature is controlled quite simply from a vent in the dome and a sliding grill at the bottom and both are extremely sensitive. It does take a little time for the thermometer needle to move up and down,which requires patience but you get used to it very quickly. Cleaning is also easy. Just brush the grills, shut the regulator and bottom grill, close the dome and leave it to cool. Once it's cold enough to handle, simply rake out the ashes.
How does the Big Green Egg barbecue cook?
Direct cooking over the coals, with locked-in, all-round heat resulted in super-tasty and succulent, with no sticking or scorching.
Is the Big Green Egg barbecue good value for money?
This is an expensive piece of kit but for serious outdoor chefs it's a worthy investment. Numerous racks, grills and baking stones available to buy with it and you can choose all the bits and pieces you want, but beware the price can rise steeply.
Who is the Big Green Egg barbecue useful for?
Using the Big Green Egg as a simple barbecue is one thing, but this smart grill can do much more. It’s ideal for budding grill chefs and enthusiasts who can enjoy a multitude of functions, including smoking, roasting, grilling and baking. As well as the large model, smaller and even larger size Eggs are available.
For more reviews, read our round-up of the best charcoal BBQs.
