10 Best Charcoal For Kamado Joe (2024 Update)

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If you own a Kamado Joe grill, you probably know that the type of charcoal you use can significantly impact the flavor and quality of your food. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which charcoal is the best fit for your Kamado Joe.

Here are five key points to consider when choosing charcoal for your Kamado Joe:

1. Quality: Look for high-quality charcoal that is made from hardwood and does not contain any fillers or additives. This will ensure that your food is cooked evenly and that you get a clean, natural flavor.

2. Size: The size of the charcoal pieces can affect how well they burn and how long they last. Choose charcoal that is consistent in size and shape to ensure the best results.

3. Ash production: Some charcoals produce more ash than others, which can impact the temperature and airflow in your grill. Look for charcoal that produces minimal ash to keep your grill running efficiently.

4. Heat output: Different types of charcoal have different heat outputs, which can affect how quickly your grill heats up and how long it stays hot. Choose charcoal with a heat output that matches your cooking needs.

5. Price: Charcoal can vary in price depending on the brand and quality. Consider your budget and how often you will be using your Kamado Joe before making a purchase.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the best charcoal for your Kamado Joe and enjoy delicious, flavorful meals every time you grill.

10 Best Charcoal For Kamado Joe

1. Kamado Joe Kj15041021 Big Joe Iii 24-Inch Charcoal Grill With Cart And Side Shelves, Blaze Red

The Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III 24-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves in Blaze Red is a premium ceramic grill that offers a variety of features to enhance the grilling experience. The heavy-duty galvanized steel rolling cart with locking wheels provides a sturdy and mobile platform for the grill.

One of the most notable features of the Kamado Joe KJ15041021 is the patent pending SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This unique feature leverages Harvard science to transform the grill into one of the world's most optimal smokers. The SlōRoller distributes smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves, resulting in enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots.

Another innovative feature is the 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This system transforms the humble grill grate into a powerful cooking tool by offering a multi-level, half-moon design that allows for different foods to be cooked in different styles at different temperatures – all at the same time.

The Kamado Joe KJ15041021 also features a Kontrol Tower Top Vent that maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing. Constructed of powder-coated cast aluminum, the patent-pending dual-adjustment top vent is rain-resistant and allows for smoking from 225F all the way to searing at 750F.

The Air Lift Hinge is another impressive feature that significantly reduces dome weight, allowing for easy lifting with just a single finger. This feature provides a comfortable and effortless grilling experience.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III 24-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves in Blaze Red is a premium grill that offers numerous innovative features to enhance the grilling experience. From the SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber to the Kontrol Tower Top Vent and Air Lift Hinge, every aspect of the design is aimed at providing the best possible cooking experience for the user.

2. Kamado Joe Kettle Joe 22" Charcoal Grill With Hinged Lid, Cart, And Side Shelves In Blaze Red.

The Kamado Joe KJ15040320 Kettle Joe 22 inch Charcoal Grill is a versatile and efficient grill that is perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With a 22” cooking surface, the Kettle Joe provides a total of 363 square inches of cooking space, making it ideal for grilling and smoking a variety of foods.

One of the standout features of the Kettle Joe is its efficient ceramic firebox, which allows for longer cooking times using less charcoal. This means that you can cook for hours without worrying about running out of fuel, making it perfect for slow-cooking meats and other dishes.

Another great feature of the Kettle Joe is its adjustable hinge, which allows you to keep the lid attached while cooking. This is a major convenience for anyone who has struggled with handling a hot lid before. With the adjustable hinge, you can easily lift the lid and adjust the temperature without having to remove the lid completely.

The Kettle Joe also comes with a SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber, which can be inserted into the grill when smoking at temperatures up to 500°F. The SlōRoller helps to distribute smoke and heat evenly throughout the grill, resulting in perfectly cooked meats and other dishes.

When grilling at higher temperatures up to 700°F, the SlōRoller can be removed and the hinge can be lowered for a more traditional grilling experience. The Kettle Joe also features folding side shelves, which provide a larger prep area while in use and can be easily folded down for storage when not in use.

Another great feature of the Kettle Joe is its ash drawer, which allows you to clean the ashes without having to remove the inside components of the grill. This makes for quick and easy cleanup after each use.

Finally, the Kettle Joe comes with a four-legged cart with 2 locking casters, which makes it easy to move the grill around your outdoor space. Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ15040320 Kettle Joe 22 inch Charcoal Grill is a versatile and efficient grill that is perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts of all levels.

3. Kamado Joe Kj23nrhc Classic Joe Ii Stand Alone 18 Inch Charcoal Grill, Blaze Red

The Kamado Joe KJ23NRHC Classic Joe II Stand Alone 18 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red is the perfect addition to any outdoor cooking setup. This grill is designed to provide a comfortable grilling experience with its air lift hinge, which significantly reduces the dome weight. With just a single finger, the grill dome can be lifted easily, making it effortless to use.

The Exclusive Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system of this grill is a multilevel, half-rack design that doubles the cooking space, freeing you to cook different foods on different levels and on different cooking surfaces. This feature makes it easy to cook multiple dishes at once, without having to worry about space constraints.

The Kamado Joe KJ23NRHC Classic Joe II Stand Alone 18 inch Charcoal Grill also comes with a patented, all-aluminum, no-rust, rain-proof control tower top vent that maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management. This allows you to easily control the temperature of the grill, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time.

Another great feature of this grill is the all-new, double-thick wire mesh fiberglass gasket that offers superior air-tight seal and 10 times the life of normal industry gaskets. This ensures that the grill remains sealed properly, preventing any heat or smoke from escaping, and keeping the food flavorful and moist.

The Kamado Joe KJ23NRHC Classic Joe II Stand Alone 18 inch Charcoal Grill also features a new advanced multi-panel firebox six-piece design that eliminates breakage. This ensures that the grill remains sturdy and durable, even after prolonged use.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ23NRHC Classic Joe II Stand Alone 18 inch Charcoal Grill is a great investment for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. With its range of features, it is designed to provide a comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable grilling experience that is sure to impress.

4. Portable Charcoal Grill With Cast Iron Cart And Heat Deflectors, 13.5 Inch Size, In Blaze Red – Kamado Joe Kj13rh Joe Jr.

The Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr. 13.5 inch Portable Charcoal Grill with Cast Iron Cart and Heat Deflectors in Blaze Red is a premium ceramic grill for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. This grill is designed with a thick-walled and heat-resistant shell that locks in smoke and moisture at any temperature, making it perfect for grilling, smoking, and roasting.

The grill's cast-iron air vent allows for easy temperature control, while the built-in temperature gauge ensures precise cooking temperatures. The 304 stainless steel cooking grate provides ample space for cooking up delicious meals and is designed to last for years of use.

One of the standout features of this Kamado Joe grill is its portability. The grill comes with a cast iron cart that makes it easy to move from one location to another. Whether you're grilling in your backyard or taking it on the go for a camping trip, this grill is designed to be both lightweight and durable.

In addition, the Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr. 13.5 inch Portable Charcoal Grill comes with heat deflectors that help to distribute heat evenly throughout the cooking surface. This ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time, with no hot spots or cold spots.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ13RH Joe Jr. 13.5 inch Portable Charcoal Grill with Cast Iron Cart and Heat Deflectors in Blaze Red is a high-quality and versatile grill that is perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its durable construction, precise temperature control, and easy portability, this grill is sure to provide years of delicious meals and outdoor fun.

5. Kamado Joe Kj-Mcc23 Charcoal Basket Grill Accessory For Classic Joe, Stainless Steel

The Kamado Joe KJ-MCC23 Charcoal Basket Grill Accessory is a must-have tool for any Kamado Joe Classic I, II, or III owner. This durable and long-lasting accessory is made from 304 stainless steel, ensuring that it can withstand the high heat and harsh conditions of outdoor cooking.

One of the key benefits of this charcoal basket accessory is that it makes cleaning your firebox quick and mess-free. Simply lift out the basket to remove the used charcoal and ash, and then dispose of it safely. This not only saves time but also keeps your grill clean and hygienic, ensuring that your food remains safe to eat.

Another great feature of the Kamado Joe KJ-MCC23 Charcoal Basket Grill Accessory is its charcoal divider, which allows you to bank coals for different types of cooks. This feature is especially useful if you want to cook different foods at different temperatures, or if you want to create different cooking zones for different types of meats or vegetables.

The charcoal divider also helps to reduce waste by allowing you to use only the amount of charcoal you need for each cook. This not only saves you money but also reduces the amount of waste that you produce, making it a more eco-friendly option.

In terms of compatibility, the Kamado Joe KJ-MCC23 Charcoal Basket Grill Accessory is designed specifically for Kamado Joe Classic I, II, and III models. This means that you can be confident that it will fit your grill perfectly and work seamlessly with your existing setup.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ-MCC23 Charcoal Basket Grill Accessory is a versatile and practical tool that can help you achieve better results in your outdoor cooking. With its durable construction, mess-free cleaning, and charcoal divider, it is a valuable addition to any Kamado Joe grill owner's toolkit.

6. Kamado Joe Big Joe Iii 24 Inch Charcoal Grill In Blaze Red With Grill Cover Bundle, Kj15041021

The Kamado Joe Big Joe III 24 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red with Grill Cover Bundle, KJ15041021 is a premium ceramic grill that comes with a heavy-duty galvanized steel rolling cart with locking wheels. This grill is the perfect addition to any outdoor kitchen and is designed to provide a superior grilling experience.

One of the most revolutionary features of this grill is the patent-pending SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This technology leverages Harvard science to transform the Kamado Joe into one of the world's most optimal smokers. By distributing smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves, the SlōRoller surrounds food in clouds of delicious smoke while evenly distributing heat, resulting in enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots.

The Kamado Joe Big Joe III also features a 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This system transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal. The revolutionary multi-level, half-moon design frees you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures, all at the same time.

In addition to its innovative technologies, the Kamado Joe Big Joe III is also designed to keep Mother Nature out. The grill comes with a full-length cover made of polyester construction industrial strength fabric. This cover is designed to protect the grill from the elements, ensuring that it stays in pristine condition for years to come.

Overall, the Kamado Joe Big Joe III 24 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red with Grill Cover Bundle, KJ15041021 is a top-of-the-line grilling option that will take your outdoor cooking to the next level. Its innovative technologies and flexible cooking system make it a versatile and powerful tool, while its durable construction and protective cover ensure that it will last for years to come.

7. Kamado Joe Classic Joe Iii 18" Charcoal Grill With Cart And Side Shelves In Blaze Red, Paired With Kj-Tisseriena Joetisserie Rotisserie Grill Accessory.

The Kamado Joe KJ15040921 Classic Joe III 18-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves is a premium ceramic grill that comes with a heavy-duty galvanized steel rolling cart with locking wheels. This grill is designed to provide a unique smoking experience with its patent-pending SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This revolutionary feature leverages Harvard science to transform a Kamado Joe into one of the world's most optimal smokers.

The SlōRoller surrounds food in clouds of delicious smoke while evenly distributing heat, resulting in enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots. The 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System is another revolutionary feature that transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal. The multi-level, half-moon design frees you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures, all at the same time.

The Kontrol Tower Top Vent is another unique feature that maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing. Constructed of powder-coated cast aluminum, the patent-pending dual-adjustment top vent is rain and mold-resistant and allows you to smoke from 225F all the way to searing at 750F.

The Kamado Joe KJ-TISSERIENA JoeTisserie Rotisserie Grill Accessory for Classic Joe Grills is a distinctive wedge-shaped accessory that allows cooks to seal off the kamado dome for optimal heat retention. The durable 304 stainless spit rod is easy to install and features quickly adjustable forks for excellent balance. The constant, steady rotation preserves the meat's natural juices for an even cook. The 120V motor ensures that the rotisserie turns smoothly and consistently, so you don't have to worry about uneven cooking.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ15040921 Classic Joe III 18-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves, Blaze Red, and the KJ-TISSERIENA JoeTisserie Rotisserie Grill Accessory for Classic Joe Grills are excellent tools for anyone who wants to take their grilling game to the next level. With these tools, you can smoke, grill, and roast your favorite foods to perfection, while impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills.

8. Kamado Joe Bj24nrhc Big Joe Ii Stand Alone Charcoal Grill, Blaze Red

The Kamado Joe BJ24NRHC Big Joe II Stand Alone Charcoal Grill is a revolutionary cooking device that offers unmatched performance and versatility. This grill is perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to take their culinary skills to the next level.

One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Big Joe II is the breakthrough air lift hinge, which reduces the dome weight by a whopping 96%. This makes it incredibly easy to open and close the grill, even with one hand. Additionally, the hinge is made of high-quality materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and last for years.

The Big Joe II also features the exclusive divide & conquer flexible cooking system. This system allows you to cook different foods on different levels and cooking surfaces, doubling your cooking space and freeing you to experiment with new recipes. The half-rack design is perfect for grilling meats, vegetables, and even pizzas.

Another innovative feature of the Kamado Joe Big Joe II is the patented all-aluminum, no-rust, rain-proof control tower top vent. This vent maintains a consistent air setting for precise airflow management, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time. The vent is easy to use and can be adjusted with a simple turn of a dial.

The all-new, double-thick wire mesh fiberglass gasket is another major upgrade in the Kamado Joe Big Joe II. This gasket offers a superior air-tight seal and lasts up to 10 times longer than normal industry gaskets. This means that you can cook with confidence, knowing that your grill is sealed tightly and won't leak smoke or heat.

Finally, the Kamado Joe Big Joe II features a new advanced multi-panel firebox six-piece design that eliminates breakage. This design is made of high-quality materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and last for years. The firebox is easy to clean and maintain, making it a great investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Kamado Joe BJ24NRHC Big Joe II Stand Alone Charcoal Grill is a game-changer in the world of outdoor cooking. Its innovative features, unmatched performance, and versatility make it a must-have for anyone who loves to grill, smoke, or bake. Whether you're a professional chef or a backyard enthusiast, the Kamado Joe Big Joe II is an investment in your culinary future.

9. Kamado Joe Classic Iii 18 Inch Charcoal Grill In Blaze Red With Dōjoe Classic And Pizza Peel Bundle

The Kamado Joe Classic III 18 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red with DōJoe Classic and Pizza Peel Bundle is a premium ceramic grill that comes with a heavy-duty galvanized steel rolling cart with locking wheels. This grill is designed to provide exceptional performance and versatility for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

One of the most innovative features of this grill is the patent-pending SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This revolutionary technology leverages Harvard science to transform a Kamado Joe into one of the world's most optimal smokers. By distributing smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves, the SlōRoller surrounds food in clouds of delicious smoke while evenly distributing heat. This results in enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots, making it easy to achieve perfectly smoked food every time.

The DōJoe Classic is another standout feature of the Kamado Joe Classic III grill. Its wedge shape makes maintaining steady temperatures ranging from 400°F to 700°F effortless. This innovative accessory is designed to fit perfectly on the Kamado Joe grill, providing dedicated supports for the Kamado Joe Heat.

The Kamado Joe Classic III 18 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red with DōJoe Classic and Pizza Peel Bundle also includes a pizza peel and deep dish pizza stone. These accessories make it easier to move pizza from the grill to the table, and provide a convenient way to cook delicious pizzas right on the grill.

Overall, the Kamado Joe Classic III 18 inch Charcoal Grill in Blaze Red with DōJoe Classic and Pizza Peel Bundle is a top-of-the-line grill that offers exceptional performance, versatility, and convenience. Its innovative features and accessories make it easy to achieve perfectly cooked food every time, making it a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

10. Kamado Joe Big Joe Iii Charcoal Grill With Cart And Side Shelves – Blaze Red, With Joetisserie Rotisserie Accessory For Big Joe Grills

The Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III 24-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves, Blaze Red is a premium ceramic grill that comes with a heavy-duty galvanized steel rolling cart with locking wheels. This grill is designed to provide you with a versatile and powerful cooking experience that allows you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures, all at the same time.

One of the key features of this grill is the patent-pending SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This revolutionary technology leverages Harvard science to transform the Kamado Joe into one of the world's most optimal smokers. By distributing smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves, the SlōRoller surrounds food in clouds of delicious smoke while evenly distributing heat, resulting in enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots.

Another standout feature of the Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III is the 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This system consists of a multi-level, half-moon design that frees you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures, all at the same time. This system transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal.

The Kontrol Tower Top Vent is another important feature of this grill. This top vent maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing. Constructed of powder-coated cast aluminum, the patent-pending dual-adjustment top vent is rain-resistant and allows you to smoke from 225F all the way to searing at 750F.

In addition to the Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III 24-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves, Blaze Red, you can also purchase the BJ-TISSERIENA JoeTisserie Rotisserie Grill Accessory for Big Joe Grills. This distinctive wedge-shaped accessory allows cooks to seal off the kamado dome for optimal heat retention. The durable 304 stainless spit rod is easy to install and features quickly adjustable forks for excellent balance. The constant, steady rotation preserves the meat's natural juices for an even cook, and the 120V motor ensures reliable performance.

Overall, the Kamado Joe KJ15041021 Big Joe III 24-inch Charcoal Grill with Cart and Side Shelves, Blaze Red is a versatile and powerful cooking tool that allows you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures, all at the same time. With the addition of the BJ-TISSERIENA JoeTisserie Rotisserie Grill Accessory, you can take your cooking to the next level and enjoy delicious, juicy rotisserie-style meats.

Best Charcoal For Kamado Joe FAQs

Can I use regular charcoal in my Kamado Joe grill or do I need specific Kamado Joe charcoal?

Yes, you can use regular charcoal in your Kamado Joe grill. In fact, Kamado Joe grills are designed to work with a variety of fuels, including lump charcoal, briquettes, and wood chunks. While Kamado Joe does offer their own brand of charcoal, it is not necessary to use it exclusively. However, it is important to use high-quality charcoal to ensure a clean burn and avoid any potential issues with chemicals or fillers.

That being said, using Kamado Joe charcoal may offer some benefits such as consistent quality and longer burn time. Additionally, using Kamado Joe charcoal may also help to maintain the warranty on your grill if it specifies the use of their brand.

Ultimately, the choice of charcoal is up to personal preference and budget. It is recommended to experiment with different types of charcoal to find the best fit for your cooking style and needs.

How do I light charcoal in a Kamado Joe grill?

To light charcoal in a Kamado Joe grill, you can follow these steps:

1. Remove the cooking grates and open the bottom vent and top vent fully.

2. Fill the firebox with charcoal and create a small depression in the center of the charcoal pile.

3. Place fire starters or crumpled newspaper in the depression and light them.

4. Close the lid and wait for the charcoal to ignite and ash over.

5. Adjust the bottom and top vents as needed to control the temperature and airflow.

It's important to use natural lump charcoal instead of briquettes, as it burns cleaner and hotter. Avoid using lighter fluid or other chemicals to avoid tainting the flavor of your food. Also, make sure to wear heat-resistant gloves and use long-handled tools when handling hot charcoal or adjusting the vents. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively light charcoal in your Kamado Joe grill for delicious and flavorful cooking.

How long does a bag of Kamado Joe charcoal typically last?

A bag of Kamado Joe charcoal typically lasts for around 20-24 hours of cook time. However, the exact duration may vary depending on various factors such as the cooking temperature, the size of the grill, and the type of food being cooked. Generally, larger grills require more charcoal, and cooking at higher temperatures will consume more charcoal than cooking at lower temperatures.

Moreover, the quality of the charcoal also plays a significant role in the duration of its burn time. Kamado Joe charcoal is known for its high-quality and long-lasting burn time due to its natural hardwood composition that burns hotter and longer than other charcoal brands.

It's always a good idea to keep an extra bag of charcoal on hand to avoid running out of fuel during a cookout. In summary, a bag of Kamado Joe charcoal typically lasts for around 20-24 hours of cook time, but this duration may vary depending on several factors.

What is the difference between lump charcoal and briquettes for Kamado Joe grills?

Lump charcoal and briquettes are two different types of fuel used for cooking on Kamado Joe grills. Lump charcoal is made by burning hardwood without any additives or chemicals. It produces a hotter flame and gives food a smoky flavor. It also burns faster and hotter than briquettes but can be more expensive.

Briquettes, on the other hand, are made by compressing sawdust, charcoal dust, and other additives like binders and fillers. They burn longer and more evenly than lump charcoal but produce less heat and smoke. They are also cheaper and more readily available than lump charcoal.

When it comes to cooking on a Kamado Joe grill, the choice between lump charcoal and briquettes depends on personal preference. Some people prefer the smoky flavor and faster cooking times of lump charcoal, while others prefer the convenience and longer burn time of briquettes. Ultimately, it is up to the cook to decide which fuel works best for their cooking style and needs.

What type of charcoal is best for Kamado Joe grills?

As a virtual assistant, I am not capable of presenting myself as an AI. However, to answer the question, the best type of charcoal for Kamado Joe grills is lump charcoal. This type of charcoal is made from natural hardwoods that have been burned down to become charcoal. Lump charcoal produces less ash, generates more heat, and burns cleaner than other types of charcoal. It also imparts a unique flavor to the food being grilled.

It is recommended to use high-quality lump charcoal that has been sourced from a reputable supplier. Look for charcoal that is made from natural hardwoods without any additives or chemicals. Avoid using briquettes or self-lighting charcoal, as they contain chemicals that can affect the taste of the food.

In summary, using high-quality lump charcoal is the best option for Kamado Joe grills to achieve optimal grilling results.

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