If you’re passionate about outdoor cooking, you’ve likely encountered a variety of Kamado grills. These versatile cookers have a loyal following, known for their ability to grill, smoke, bake, and roast with precision. Among the many options available, the Blaze Aluminum Kamado stands out—not just for its robust construction, but also for its premium price tag. At over $1,700, it’s a significant investment. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in and find out.
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First Impressions: What Sets the Blaze Aluminum Kamado Apart?
The Blaze Aluminum Kamado is a striking piece of equipment. Unlike most Kamados made from ceramic, the Blaze is crafted from cast aluminum. This key difference is immediately noticeable and offers several advantages.
- Durability: Aluminum is rust-resistant and virtually indestructible. While ceramic Kamados are prone to cracking if mishandled, the Blaze Kamado is built to withstand the test of time. It’s a grill that can be passed down through generations.
- No Cart Included: Unlike many Kamados that come with a cart for easy mobility, the Blaze Kamado is designed primarily for outdoor kitchen installations. However, if you need a cart, it’s available as a separate purchase. The cast aluminum feet that come with the grill ensure there’s an air gap between the bottom of the grill and the surface it’s installed on, which is crucial for safe operation.
- Unique Design Features: The Blaze Kamado features a 20-inch wide cooking grate made from 12mm stainless steel, designed for both durability and excellent heat retention. The grate can be lifted on one side to add charcoal or wood chunks during cooking. Additionally, it has a secondary grate for lower grilling or for placing a deflector plate, making it easy to switch between direct and indirect cooking.
- Innovative Airflow Control: The air intake on the Blaze Kamado is simple yet effective. The door slides open and closed to regulate airflow, and it can be locked in place for consistent cooking temperatures. The exhaust vent is built into the top of the grill and is adjustable for precise control, ensuring that you can manage your cook with ease.
- No Gasket Needed: Unlike most ceramic Kamados that require a felt gasket to seal the lid, the Blaze Kamado uses a tight aluminum-to-aluminum seal. This design eliminates the need for gasket replacements and ensures a long-lasting, airtight seal.
Cooking with the Blaze Kamado: A Real-World Test
To truly understand what the Blaze Aluminum Kamado offers, we put it through a series of rigorous tests in our outdoor kitchen. Here’s how it performed across different cooking scenarios:
Fajitas for a Crowd
We hosted a family gathering, cooking fajitas for 17 people. The Blaze Kamado easily handled the task. Using Fogo charcoal, we fired up the grill to around 550°F. First up were chicken thighs, seasoned with our custom fajita mix. The large cooking grate provided ample space, allowing us to achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken.
Next came the skirt steak. Despite being thin and long, the steak cooked evenly, with perfect grill marks in just two minutes per side. The Blaze Kamado’s ability to maintain high temperatures while offering consistent heat distribution made this cook a breeze.
Hot and Fast Chicken Wings
Wanting to test the Blaze Kamado’s ability to handle indirect cooking, we set it up with the deflector plate and aimed for a cooking temperature of 400°F. We seasoned the wings with our spicy chicken rub and placed them in the center of the grate to avoid direct heat. After 30-40 minutes, the wings were crispy and flavorful, with no charring—a testament to the grill’s ability to cook evenly at high heat.
Low and Slow with Precision
To test the Blaze Kamado’s performance in low and slow cooking, we smoked a pork butt for a classic barbecue dish. Setting the grill to a stable 250°F, we were impressed by how well the Blaze maintained the temperature for hours on end. The result? A beautifully smoked pork butt, tender and juicy, with a deep, smoky flavor.
Searing Steaks
For our final test, we cranked up the Blaze Kamado to its maximum temperature—around 900°F. We seasoned some ribeye steaks and threw them on the grill for a high-heat sear. The grill marks were impeccable, and the steaks had a perfect crust while staying juicy inside. The Blaze Kamado’s ability to reach such high temperatures quickly is one of its standout features, making it ideal for searing.
The Blaze Kamado vs. Ceramic Kamados: How Does It Compare?
When comparing the Blaze Aluminum Kamado to its ceramic counterparts, several factors come into play:
- Heat Retention and Stability: Ceramic Kamados are known for their excellent heat retention, but the Blaze Kamado holds its own, thanks to the thick aluminum construction. While it might not match the ceramic in thermal efficiency, it heats up faster and recovers more quickly when the lid is opened.
- Durability: The Blaze Kamado’s aluminum build is a clear winner in terms of durability. You don’t have to worry about cracks or chips, and it’s less likely to suffer damage from accidental bumps or drops.
- Weight: One downside of ceramic Kamados is their weight, which makes them difficult to move. The Blaze Kamado, while still hefty, is lighter than most ceramics and easier to handle if you ever need to relocate it.
- Maintenance: The Blaze Kamado requires less maintenance—no need to replace gaskets or worry about ceramic surfaces chipping. The ash tray and grates are easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance option for busy cooks.
Is the Blaze Aluminum Kamado Worth the Investment?
At a price point of $1,789 (without the cart), the Blaze Aluminum Kamado is certainly an investment. However, considering its durability, versatile cooking options, and premium build quality, it’s a grill that’s built to last. The limited lifetime warranty further adds to its value, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
For those serious about outdoor cooking and looking for a Kamado that can handle a variety of cooking styles, from low and slow smoking to high-heat searing, the Blaze Aluminum Kamado is a top contender. Its robust construction, innovative features, and consistent performance make it a worthy addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Final Thoughts
The Blaze Aluminum Kamado is not just another grill; it’s a powerful cooking tool that delivers on its promises. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a home cook looking to elevate your grilling game, this Kamado offers the performance and durability that justify its premium price.
So, is the Blaze Aluminum Kamado the right choice for you? If you value quality, durability, and versatility in your outdoor cooking equipment, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s a grill that will not only meet but exceed your expectations, making every cook a success.
Gordon Ramsay from Cooking For Profit
For more in-depth reviews and expert cooking tips, visit cookingforprofit.com.
