Grilling in cold weather can seem like a daunting task. Whether you're a professional or a novice, you can have delicious meals no matter the season. Nothing beats a hearty meal in the winter, from roasted veggies to seared steak, chili, and more!
Does Grilling in the Cold Affect your Kamado Joe?
Yes! The elements can take a toll on your grill in the winter months. It's important to winterize your grill and protect it from the elements to prevent rust.
Prep your grill for the elements.
You will need to winterize your grill in the winter.
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Cover, cover, cover!
If you take anything from this blog, it should be the importance of having a cover. Covers can protect your grill from ice, snow, etc. Trust us, it's easier to shake off snow than it is to scrape off snow. Your grill will thank you!
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Clean!
Clean your grill! Once or twice a year, you should do a more thorough cleaning of the inside of the grill. Remove the internal components and remove any residual ash or debris that has collected between the grill body and the internal components. Use a plastic bristle brush to clean the inside ceramic surface and scoop or vacuum debris from the bottom of the grill before replacing the internal component.
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Season!
Similar to when you first got your grill, you will need to season. Seasoning is always a good method between seasons, or when you have grilled often.
- Add charcoal and light it.
- Install the Divide & Conquer® flexible cooking rack in the top position and both heat deflectors on the accessory rack.
- Open the top and bottom air vents fully and let the temperature inside the grill rise to 600°F (315°C) with the dome closed.
- Hold the temperature at around 600°F (315°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Close the bottom vent fully and wait another 15-20 minutes to close the top vent.
This process will burn off any unwanted residue from the inside of your grill. Light cracked porcelain called crazing is part of the natural characteristic.
Pro Tips
Accessorize
We're serious. Snow gloves aren't grill gloves. From what we can tell, grillers do get cold.
Accessibility
Clear a path to your grill or move it closer! Just make sure your grill isn't under a cover or an overhang. Give your grill ample room for smoke and flame. If you're unsure about how much room, check your manual!
Fuel
Winter grilling requires more fuel than summer grilling! Make sure you're not in a pinch trying to refuel at the last minute!
Cook times
With colder weather, expect your grill to take longer to heat up than in the summer.
Heat Retention
As the age old saying goes, "If you're looking, you're not cooking".
Now that you've read this blog, you are prepared for winter grilling! Now bundle up, and grill on! If you have any delicious meals, show us on social media @kamadojoe!
