INTRODUCTION TO CERAMIC GRILLING
Ceramic charcoal barbecues are extremely versatile. Not only can they be used for grilling or smoking, but also pizzas, bread,
pies and cookies can be baked effortlessly inside them. Due to their excellent heat-retention properties, high temperatures can
be achieved and maintained by precise control of airflow via the top and bottom vents. High temperatures are ideal for quickly
cooking burgers and sausages, while low heats can cook larger cuts over a longer period of time. Try adding some wood chips to
the charcoal, or try combining different flavor wood chips to make your meats even more flavorful.
The key is to experiment with the length of time you allow for smoking, before the meal is finished cooking. Some outdoor chefs
prefer to smoke at the end of a cook, allowing the food to keep warm until ready to serve. Practice makes perfect!
UNDERSTANDING AIRFLOW AND DAMPER CONTROL
The heart of your grill lies in the relationship between the top and bottom ventilation dampers. Opening the dampers, allowing
more air to flow through the system, allows the charcoal to burn very hot and create firey embers. To cook at lower temperatures,
keep the dampers open only a small distance, allowing for minimal airflow and maximum heat retention in the ceramic chamber.
To ensure the grill performs correctly, proper maintenance and clean out of the firebox are essential. If the grill is not achieving
the desired temperature, check to ensure that there is proper airflow to the fuel and that none of the dampers are blocked.
TIP: The grill can run efficiently over extended periods of time as long as there is dry and sufficient fuel, proper airflow, and
the cooking components are clean.
FIRST USE – GRILL BURN-OFF
Curing your ceramic charcoal barbecue is important for its long-term operation and care. Avoiding the curing procedure could
lead to damage on the unit. If the first burns are too hot, they could damage the felt gasket seal before it has had the chance to
mature with use. To start your first fire:
1.
Place one lighter cube, or solid firelighters and one handful of lump charcoal on top of the charcoal plate. Open the
bottom vent and light the lighter cube using a long-nosed lighter or safety matches.
Do not use gasoline, white spirit, lighter fluid, alcohol or other similar chemicals for lighting or relighting.
2. Once the lump charcoal has caught, cure the unit by closing the lid, and leaving both vents mostly closed. Burn until all
the fuel is used and the fire is extinguished. This should take approximately two hours. Do not overload the unit with
fuel.
3. After grill has cooled, inspect all fasteners. The metal band connecting your lid to the base will expand from the heat and
could become loose. It is recommended you check and tighten the band, if necessary, with a wrench.
4. The ceramic charcoal barbecue can now be used as normal.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
9