Big Flavor in a Small Package – The Joe Jr® Advantage

When it comes to bold results in a compact footprint, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr® portable kamado grill delivers every time. Don’t let the size fool you—this powerhouse of a grill packs all the ceramic heat retention, airflow control, and versatility you love in a full-size Kamado into a portable, tailgate-ready design. Whether you’re at deer camp, on the back patio, or cooking curbside, the Joe Jr® portable charcoal grill gives you precise control over temperature and smoke—perfect for executing wild game recipes with finesse. 

"The only thing I love more than hunting wild turkeys is making flavorful recipes with the meat when I get home" - Jennifer

The Science of Basting: Layers of Flavor, Locked In

Basting isn’t just for looks—it’s science at work. Repeatedly brushing barbecue sauce onto meat during a cook allows sugar and spices to caramelize gradually, building rich, sticky layers of flavor while preventing moisture loss. The key is timing: apply early enough to infuse flavor but late enough to avoid burning the sugars. For bacon-wrapped turkey, each baste helps the bacon crisp, the glaze set, and the meat stay tender—turning simple skewers into serious flavor bombs.

This grilled wild turkey recipe is part of our Serve Up Adventure recipe series with Jennifer Danella. Looking for more? Click to see more wild game recipes made on her Kamado Joe

Unlocking the Flavor of Wild Turkey

Wild turkey brings a leaner, gamier profile than its grocery store counterpart, with a meatier texture and more intense flavor. That’s why balancing heat, smoke, and fat is essential. Wrapping each cube in bacon introduces richness, while jalapeños and cheese offer contrast—heat and creaminess in every bite. Add a smoky barbecue glaze, and you've got the ideal flavor combo: spicy, sweet, salty, and savory all in one.