Big Green Egg Review Minimax w/ Ribeye & smoked pulled pork butt | BGE mini-max BBQ steak

Baby Back Maniac
10 Dec 201618:05

TLDRIn this review, the host discusses their experience with the Big Green Egg Mini Max, a portable kamado-style grill. They share its weight, size, and cooking capabilities, noting it's suitable for small families and versatile cooking. The video highlights the grill's efficiency, ease of use, and the addition of a ceramic Grill store heat deflector. The host also compares the Mini Max to other grills, suggesting it's ideal as a second, portable cooker or for those seeking a daily-use grill with charcoal-saving benefits.

Takeaways

  • 🏷️ The Big Green Egg Mini Max is a portable kamado-style grill, second smallest in the Big Green Egg line.
  • 🔍 The reviewer acquired the Mini Max through a trade and created this review to address the lack of information online.
  • 💪 Despite being portable, the Mini Max is quite heavy, weighing around 90 lbs, making it more suitable for two people to carry.
  • 🔥 The Mini Max heats up quickly, reaching 750°F in about 12-13 minutes.
  • 🥩 It has a cooking grate of 13 inches in diameter, suitable for cooking three large ribeyes comfortably.
  • ♨️ The fire grate is just under 5 inches from the cooking grate, providing ample space for heat distribution.
  • 🔧 The Mini Max comes with a ceramic firebox and a cast iron fire grate, similar to other Big Green Eggs.
  • 📏 The total height of the Mini Max is approximately 21 inches, which can vary slightly depending on the top vent seating.
  • 🔄 The Mini Max is versatile with the addition of an aftermarket heat deflector, enhancing its cooking capabilities.
  • 🍖 The reviewer cooked a large pork butt, showcasing the grill's ability to handle substantial cuts of meat.
  • 📋 The Mini Max is a full-fledged Big Green Egg experience in a smaller, more manageable size, ideal for smaller families or as a secondary grill.

Q & A

  • What is the Big Green Egg Mini Max and why was it being discussed in the video?

    -The Big Green Egg Mini Max is a portable kamado-style grill. It was being discussed because the reviewer had recently acquired a used one and wanted to share their experience and answer questions they had when researching the product.

  • How did the reviewer come to own the Mini Max?

    -The reviewer acquired the Mini Max through a trade with a buyer who was interested in purchasing another grill the reviewer was selling on Craigslist.

  • What is the size category of the Mini Max within the Big Green Egg product line?

    -The Mini Max is the second smallest in the Big Green Egg line, being part of the two mini sizes designed for portability.

  • How heavy is the Mini Max according to the reviewer?

    -The Mini Max is listed at about 90 pounds, which the reviewer confirms feels accurate and is a weight that is manageable but not ideal for one person to carry over long distances.

  • What is the diameter of the cooking grate on the Mini Max?

    -The cooking grate on the Mini Max measures exactly 13 inches across.

  • How much clearance is there between the cooking grate and the fire grate on the Mini Max?

    -There is just under five inches of clearance between the cooking grate and the fire grate on the Mini Max.

  • What is the warranty situation for the Mini Max since it was a used purchase?

    -Big Green Eggs come with a lifetime warranty on the ceramic for the original owner, but since it was a used purchase, the reviewer does not receive the warranty. Additionally, if bought from certain outlets like Sam's Club, it's considered gray market and not warrantied by Big Green Egg.

  • What aftermarket product was mentioned in the review that enhances the Mini Max's functionality?

    -The reviewer mentioned an aftermarket heat deflector called the 'woo' from the Ceramic Grill Store, which enhances the Mini Max's versatility.

  • How quickly can the Mini Max reach a high temperature?

    -On a 28° day, the Mini Max reached 750° in about 12 to 13 minutes.

  • What are some of the pros and cons of the Mini Max as discussed in the review?

    -Pros include the Mini Max being a full-on Big Green Egg experience, efficient on charcoal, manageable, and versatile with the addition of accessories. Cons include its size limitations for larger cooks, the need for a table or stand, and the fact that it's not as portable as one might expect due to its weight.

  • Who would the reviewer recommend the Mini Max for?

    -The reviewer suggests the Mini Max is suitable as a second, portable cooker for those who already have a larger grill, or as a day-to-day cooker for smaller families looking to save on charcoal.

Outlines

00:00

🍳 Introduction to the Mini Max by Big Green Egg

The speaker introduces the Mini Max by Big Green Egg, a portable grill that they acquired through a trade. They discuss the grill's portability, size, and features. The Mini Max is the second smallest in the Big Green Egg line, designed for portability with sturdy handles and a cart for easy transport. It weighs approximately 90 lbs, making it somewhat portable but more suitable for two people to carry. The speaker shares their initial research and curiosity about the grill, which led them to create this video to answer questions they had and to provide information for potential buyers. They also detail the grill's dimensions, including a cooking grate measuring 13 inches across and a clearance of about 5 inches between the cooking grate and the charcoal grate.

05:00

🔥 Performance and Warranty Discussion

The speaker talks about the performance of the Mini Max, highlighting its rapid heating capabilities, reaching 750°F in about 13 minutes on a 28° day. They also discuss the warranty, noting that the original owner has a lifetime warranty for ceramic cracks under normal use, but as a second owner, they do not have this benefit. They mention the concept of 'gray market' products, which are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty. The speaker also reviews an aftermarket heat deflector, comparing it to the original Big Green Egg product. They conclude with a cooking test, grilling a ribeye steak and commenting on the grill's ability to sear and char the meat effectively.

10:01

📋 Pros, Cons, and Neutral Observations

The speaker lists the pros, cons, and neutral observations about the Mini Max. Neutral points include the need for a table to elevate the grill and the incompatibility with large charcoal pieces. Cons include the grill's size limitations for larger cuts of meat and the need to manage ash buildup. Pros include the grill's efficiency, manageable size and weight, and versatility with the addition of a ceramic Grill store product. The speaker suggests that the Mini Max could serve as a daily cooker for smaller families or as a secondary grill for larger ones.

15:03

🏡 Who Should Buy the Mini Max and Final Thoughts

The speaker contemplates who should consider purchasing the Mini Max, suggesting it as a second, portable cooker for those who already own a larger grill or for smaller families looking for a daily-use grill. They compare the Mini Max to other grills, such as the Joe Jr. and the Jumbo Joe by Weber, highlighting the features and benefits of each. The speaker concludes by likening the Mini Max to an iPad—expensive and not necessarily justifiable, but enjoyable to use. They encourage viewers to subscribe for upcoming content and invite questions and comments.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Mini Max

The 'Mini Max' refers to a smaller model within the Big Green Egg product line. It is designed to be portable and is the second smallest in the series. In the video, the reviewer discusses the Mini Max's portability and its suitability for those who want a compact yet functional kamado-style grill. The Mini Max is highlighted for its ability to be carried and used in various settings, making it an attractive option for those with space constraints or who value the flexibility of a mobile cooking setup.

💡Portable

The term 'portable' in the context of the video refers to the ease with which the Mini Max can be moved from one location to another. Despite its relatively heavy weight of approximately 90 lbs, the Mini Max features sturdy handles and a cart designed for transportation. The reviewer notes that while it is not lightweight, it is manageable for short distances and can be considered 'two-person portable' for longer moves, emphasizing the balance between the grill's size and its mobility.

💡Big Green Egg

The 'Big Green Egg' is a brand known for its ceramic kamado-style grills. The video focuses on the Mini Max model, which is part of this line. The Big Green Egg is appreciated for its durability, heat retention, and versatility in cooking. The reviewer compares the Mini Max to other models within the brand, discussing its features and benefits, and how it fits into the broader range of Big Green Egg products.

💡Ceramic Grill Store Woo

The 'Ceramic Grill Store Woo' mentioned in the script is an aftermarket heat deflector that the reviewer has added to enhance the functionality of the Mini Max. It is noted for its effectiveness in heat distribution and its contribution to the grill's versatility. The reviewer praises this accessory for expanding the grill's capabilities, allowing for different cooking techniques and enhancing the user experience.

💡Charcoal Efficiency

The reviewer discusses the 'charcoal efficiency' of the Mini Max, which refers to how well the grill uses charcoal to maintain heat and cook food. The Mini Max is described as a 'workhorse' that is 'super efficient on charcoal,' meaning it requires less fuel to achieve and maintain high cooking temperatures. This efficiency can lead to cost savings for users and is a desirable feature for those who grill frequently.

💡Cooking Grate

The 'cooking grate' is the surface on which food is placed for cooking in the Mini Max. The reviewer measures it to be exactly 13 inches across, providing a clear idea of the grill's cooking capacity. The grate's size is crucial for understanding how much food can be cooked at once and is a key consideration for potential buyers who need to know if the grill can accommodate their cooking needs.

💡Fire Grate

The 'fire grate' is the component of the Mini Max that sits directly above the charcoal and below the cooking grate. It is essential for the grill's heat distribution and cooking performance. The reviewer measures the clearance between the fire grate and the cooking grate to be just under five inches, which is an important factor in determining the grill's heat retention and cooking efficiency.

💡Warranty

The 'warranty' discussion in the video addresses the lifetime coverage provided by Big Green Egg for their ceramic products under normal use. The reviewer notes that as a second owner, they do not receive the lifetime warranty, which is typically reserved for the original purchaser. This is an important consideration for potential buyers of used Big Green Egg products, as it may affect their decision-making process regarding the purchase of a new or used grill.

💡Competitors

The reviewer compares the Mini Max to other grills, identifying 'competitors' such as larger Big Green Egg models, the Kamado Joe Jr, and the Weber Jumbo Joe. These comparisons help to position the Mini Max within the market and provide viewers with alternatives to consider based on their specific needs for size, portability, and price. The discussion of competitors is valuable for viewers who are making an informed decision about their grill purchase.

💡Versatile

The term 'versatile' is used to describe the Mini Max's ability to handle a wide range of cooking tasks. The reviewer emphasizes that with the addition of the Ceramic Grill Store Woo, the grill becomes even more versatile, capable of various cooking methods. This versatility is a selling point for the Mini Max, as it appeals to users who want a grill that can adapt to different cooking styles and recipes.

Highlights

Introduction to the Big Green Egg Mini Max and its portability.

The Mini Max is the second smallest in the Big Green Egg range and is designed for portability.

The Mini Max weighs approximately 90 lbs, making it somewhat portable but likely requiring two people for longer distances.

The total height of the Mini Max is 21 inches, with some variance possible based on the top vent.

The cooking grate measures exactly 13 inches across.

There is just under five inches of clearance between the cooking grate and the charcoal grate.

The Mini Max heats up to 750° in about 12-13 minutes on a 28° day.

The Mini Max fits three bone-in ribeyes comfortably.

The Mini Max requires a table or elevated surface for use.

It does not use big charcoal, requiring a switch to a different type for use in the Mini Max.

A thermometer's presence may interfere with large cooks, suggesting it needs to be removed during such sessions.

The Mini Max is well-suited for small families but may not be ideal for larger cooks or parties.

The ash management requires attention, as it can become bogged down after a few hours of use.

The Mini Max is a full-on Big Green Egg experience in a smaller, more manageable size.

It is super efficient on charcoal, which can lead to savings.

The Mini Max is very versatile, especially with the addition of an aftermarket heat deflector.

The Mini Max could become a primary cooker for smaller families, offering a good size for most of their cooking needs.

The main competition to the Mini Max is a larger Big Green Egg, offering more cooking space for a higher price.

For those looking at the Mini Max, also consider the Joe Jr from Kamado Joe or the Jumbo Joe by Weber for different cooking needs.

The Mini Max is best suited as a second cooker or a daily cooker for smaller families, offering a unique, enjoyable cooking experience.

Casual Browsing

GWPJ MINIMAX BGE V1

2024-09-05 19:05:00

Mini MAX, TEAM Mini MAX, ultralight and experimental aircraft, TEAM Mini Max Aircraft

2024-09-05 18:16:00

Mini Max Goes Bad | Big Hero 6 The Series | Disney XD

2024-09-05 20:26:00

MINI MAX - BYSTRY POTOK PŁYNIE (BIESIADA 2024)

2024-09-05 19:44:00

Mini Max - Bo ja jestem Biznesmenem (COVER) BIESIADA LATO 2024

2024-09-05 16:44:00