Build a coal fire
Build a small well in your charcoal, light 2–3 natural firelighters in the centre, and let the fire grow slowly with vents fully open. Once the coals are established, close the lid and once you're within 50°C of your target temperature, gradually close the vents until you settle at your desired temperature.
Prevent your screen from going dark as you follow along.
- 01
Open the Vents
Open both the bottom vent and top vent fully to allow maximum airflow.
Good airflow is key to getting a clean, steady fire started.
- 02
Load the Charcoal
Fill the firebox with lump charcoal:
- Stack larger pieces at the bottom
- Smaller pieces on top
- Leave a small well or gap toward the front and centre where the fire will start
- 03
Light the Fire
Place 1–2 natural wood firelighters into the well and light them.
Avoid using too many — kamados are efficient, and a small fire is all you need to get going.
- 04
Leave the Lid Open
Leave the lid open for around 5–10 minutes.
This allows the firelighters to fully ignite the surrounding charcoal and begin building a stable flame.
- 05
Close the Lid
Once you see a good area of charcoal catching (glowing and lightly ashed over), close the lid but keep both vents fully open.
This helps the fire strengthen and spread through the charcoal bed.
- 06
Start Adjusting the Vents
As the temperature begins to rise, start adjusting the vents gradually to control the airflow.
Close them down in small increments as you approach your target cooking temperature.
- 07
Allow to Stabilise
Give the kamado time to stabilise. It heats up efficiently, so steady adjustments will help you avoid overshooting your temperature.
- 08
Add Your Components
Using heat proof gloves, add in the rest of your components:
- Heat deflectors
- Grill grates
Allow them to soak up to temperature.
- 09
Stabilise Again
Give the kamado time to stabilise once more after adding components.
- 10
You're Ready to Cook!
Once you've been settled at your target temperature for 15 minutes, you're good to go! 🔥