Frequently Asked Questions*
What is a Big Green Egg and how does it work?
The Big Green Egg is a ceramic kamado-style grill that uses premium lump charcoal for fuel. Its thick ceramic walls provide exceptional heat retention and moisture control, allowing you to grill, smoke, roast, and bake at temperatures from 100°C to 400°C+. The patented air flow system gives you precise temperature control through adjustable top and bottom vents.
How does Big Green Egg compare to Napoleon gas BBQs?
Big Green Egg and Napoleon serve different cooking styles. Big Green Egg is a ceramic kamado using charcoal, excelling at smoking, slow roasting, and authentic wood-fired flavour with exceptional heat retention. Napoleon gas BBQs offer instant ignition, precise burner control, and convenience for quick weeknight grilling. Your choice depends on priorities: Big Green Egg for traditional charcoal cooking and smoking versatility, Napoleon for gas convenience and infrared searing. Both are premium brands offering exceptional quality and UK warranty support.
What sizes of Big Green Egg are available and which is right for me?
Big Green Egg offers six sizes: MiniMax (portable, ideal for 2-4 people), Small (2-4 people), Medium (4-6 people), Large (6-8 people, most popular), XLarge (8-12 people), and 2XL (12+ people for large gatherings). The Large is the most popular size, offering the best balance of cooking capacity and versatility for most families.
How is a Big Green Egg different from a regular BBQ?
Unlike traditional metal BBQs, the Big Green Egg's ceramic construction provides superior heat retention, moisture control, and fuel efficiency. It maintains consistent temperatures for hours with minimal fuel, works in all weather conditions, and offers true multi-function cooking (grill, smoke, roast, bake) in one unit. The ceramic also lasts a lifetime, unlike metal grills that rust and deteriorate.
Can I use a Big Green Egg in UK weather conditions?
Yes, the Big Green Egg's ceramic construction is designed for year-round outdoor use in all UK weather conditions. The ceramic retains heat exceptionally well, making it efficient even in cold or wet British weather. However, we recommend using a cover when not in use to protect the metal components and extend their lifespan.
What can I cook on a Big Green Egg?
The Big Green Egg is incredibly versatile. You can grill steaks, burgers, and vegetables, smoke brisket and ribs low-and-slow, roast whole chickens and joints, bake pizzas and bread, and even cook desserts. The precise temperature control allows you to cook anything from delicate fish to high-heat seared steaks.
Is the Big Green Egg difficult to use for beginners?
No, whilst there's a learning curve to master temperature control, the Big Green Egg is beginner-friendly. Start with simple recipes like burgers or chicken, and gradually experiment with smoking and baking. The ceramic design is forgiving - it holds temperature well and recovers quickly from lid openings. Many resources, cookbooks, and online communities are available to help you learn.
What accessories do I need to get started with a Big Green Egg?
Essential starter accessories include a convEGGtor (heat deflector for indirect cooking/smoking), a quality instant-read thermometer, heat-resistant gloves, a grill gripper for safe grate handling, and premium lump charcoal. Many users also add a pizza stone, cast iron grid, and ash tool for enhanced versatility.
What type of charcoal should I use in a Big Green Egg?
Big Green Egg recommends using premium natural lump charcoal, such as Big Green Egg branded charcoal. Avoid briquettes, instant-light charcoal, or treated wood, as these can produce harmful chemicals and damage the ceramic. Premium lump charcoal burns cleaner, hotter, produces better flavour, and lasts longer.
Can I buy Big Green Egg online with UK delivery?
Yes, shop our complete Big Green Egg range online with free UK delivery on selected models. Browse kamado grills, accessories, charcoal, and covers with detailed specifications. For local customers in Berkshire, Bracknell, Ascot, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, and Reading, we also offer showroom collection and local delivery.
Where can I see Big Green Egg in person?
Visit our Berkshire showroom at Oaktree Garden Centre to see the complete Big Green Egg range on display. Our specialists provide expert demonstrations and advice on kamado cooking. Convenient for customers in Bracknell, Ascot, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, Reading, and surrounding areas.
Does the Big Green Egg come with a warranty?
Yes, Big Green Egg offers a limited lifetime warranty on the ceramic components and a 5-year warranty on metal components (varies by part). This demonstrates the exceptional build quality and durability. Always register your Big Green Egg after purchase and follow the manufacturer's care instructions to maintain warranty coverage.
Can I leave my Big Green Egg outside all year?
Yes, the ceramic construction is weatherproof and designed for permanent outdoor placement in UK weather. However, we strongly recommend using a premium ventilated cover to protect the metal bands, hinges, and hardware from the elements. This extends the life of these components and keeps your EGG looking great.
*These FAQs provide general guidance. Always follow the specific product manual and manufacturer instructions for safety, assembly, and operation. Manufacturer guidelines take precedence.