Char-Griller 16820 AKORN Charcoal Grill Slate Owner’s Manual

Char-Griller 16820 AKORN Charcoal Grill Slate

Product Information

Specifications:

• Model Number: 16820 / D16820 / E16820
• Patents: Multiple Patents Pending
• Manufacturer: Char-Griller | A&J Manufacturing
• Contact Information: Customer Service – 1-912-638-4724, Service@CharGriller.com
• Manual Copyright: Char-Griller | A&J Manufacturing
• Manual Version: OM16820 C.3

Important Safety Warnings:
Before assembling and operating your grill, please read and follow all safety warnings and instructions carefully to ensure safe usage and prevent accidents. Some important safety warnings include:

• Use caution when assembling and operating the grill to avoid scrapes or cuts from sharp edges.
• Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or alcohol for lighting charcoal as it may cause an explosion leading to severe bodily injury.
• Do not use lighter fluid on already lit coals.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill and never leave it unattended when in use.
• Keep the grill at least 15 feet away from any combustible material such as decks, buildings, fences, trees, bushes, etc.
• Use extreme caution when adding charcoal and/or wood.
• Never move the grill when it is in use or contains hot coals or ashes. Always keep the grill in a level position during usage.
• Always latch the lid when it is in the closed position.
• Avoid placing the grill near flammable liquids, gases, or areas with flammable vapors.
• When opening the grill, first open it slightly to let a small amount of air in for a few seconds to prevent dangerous flashbacks.
• Use caution as flames can flare-up when fresh air suddenly comes in contact with fire. Keep hands, face, and body safe from hot steam and flame flare-ups when opening the lid.
• Removing excess fat before cooking will help prevent flare-ups.
• Keep the grill clean to help prevent flare-ups.
• Always put charcoal on top of the fire grate and not directly into the bottom of the grill.
• Always wear oven mitts to protect hands from burns, especially when adjusting dampers. Avoid touching hot surfaces.
• When opening the lid, make sure it is pushed all the way back and rests against the lid support bracket to prevent bodily injury from a falling hood.
• Close the lid and all dampers to suffocate the flame.
• Always hold an open lid from the handle to prevent it from closing unexpectedly.0
• Never leave coals and ashes unattended. Before leaving the grill unattended, ensure that coals and ashes are removed safely. Place remaining coals and ashes in a noncombustible metal container and saturate completely with water. Allow coals and water to remain in the metal container for 24 hours prior to disposing.
• To protect against bacteria that could cause illness, follow proper food handling practices such as keeping all meats refrigerated, thawing in the refrigerator or microwave, keeping raw meats separate from other foods, washing everything that contacts raw meats, cooking thoroughly, and refrigerating leftovers immediately. Cook meats medium to well done.

Product Usage Instructions

Assembling the Grill:
Follow the provided assembly instructions in the user manual to properly assemble the grill. Ensure that all parts are securely connected and fastened before proceeding.

Lighting the Grill:
Follow these steps to light the grill:

1. Ensure that the grill is placed in a safe location at least 15 feet away from any combustible material.
2. Remove the lid and open all dampers.
3. Place charcoal on top of the fire grate, avoiding direct contact with the bottom of the grill.
4. Using a suitable charcoal starter, light the charcoal according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once the charcoal is lit and covered with ash, carefully place the cooking grates back in position.

Operating the Grill:
Follow these guidelines when operating the grill:

• Always wear oven mitts to protect your hands from burns.
• Adjust the dampers to control the airflow and temperature inside the grill.
• Monitor the cooking process and adjust the dampers as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
• Use long-handled utensils to handle food on the grill to avoid getting too close to the heat source.
• Carefully open the lid when necessary, ensuring that it is pushed all the way back and rests against the lid support bracket.
• Close the lid and all dampers to suffocate the flame when finished cooking.

Cleaning and Maintenance:
Proper cleaning and maintenance of the grill are essential for optimal performance and longevity. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure that the grill has completely cooled down before cleaning.
2. Remove any leftover charcoal and ashes from the grill using a suitable tool.
3. Clean the cooking grates, fire grate, and other removable parts with a grill brush or suitable cleaning tool.
4. Wipe the exterior surfaces of the grill with a damp cloth or sponge.
5. Regularly inspect the grill for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn-out or damaged parts as necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gasoline or kerosene to light the charcoal?
No, it is strictly prohibited to use gasoline or kerosene for lighting charcoal as it may cause an explosion and severe bodily injury. Please follow the recommended methods for lighting charcoal provided in the user manual.

How far should I keep the grill from combustible materials?
It is recommended to keep the grill at least 15 feet away from any combustible material such as decks, buildings, fences, trees, bushes, etc. This distance helps prevent fire hazards and ensures safety during usage.

Can I leave the grill unattended when in use?
No, it is important to never leave the grill unattended when in use. Always supervise the grill and keep children and pets away from it to prevent accidents. Ensure that the grill is in a stable position and follow all safety guidelines provided in the user manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS:
Read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before assembling and operating your grill.

STOP! CALL FIRST!
Do NOT return the product to the store. If you have any questions or need parts, contact Char-Griller Customer Service at 1-912-638-4724 (USA) or email Service@CharGriller.com. Please have your serial number ready.

Document Your Grill Model and Serial Numbers:
Find your model and serial number on the back of the grill body or on the leg. Fill in the information below:

Register Your Grill: To take full advantage of the Char-Griller warranty, register your grill by visiting www.CharGriller.com/Register or calling Customer Service at 1-912-638-4724. Registration provides important protections:

1. In the event of a product recall, Char-Griller can easily contact you.
2. If a warrantied part is broken or missing, Char-Griller can promptly send you the needed parts.

Note : You will need your model number, serial number, and a copy of the original sales receipt when registering.

Warranty Information:
Please retain a copy of the dated proof of purchase (receipt) for warranty claims. The following warranty periods apply:

Charcoal / Pellet / Kamado Grills:

• Grill Hood AND Bottom (excludes removable Ash Pan): 5 years from date of purchase for rust through / burn through
• Ash Pan AND Defective Parts: 1 year from date of purchase

Gas Grills:

• Grill Hood (TOP half) AND Main Burner Tubes (excludes Side Burner): 5 years from date of purchase for rust through / burn through
• Grill Body (BOTTOM half) AND Side Burner AND Defective Parts: 1 year from date of purchase

Dual Fuel Grills (Gas & Charcoal):

• Charcoal Grill – Hood AND Bottom AND Gas Grill Hood (TOP half) AND Main Burner Tubes (excludes Ash Pan and Side Burner): 5 years from date of purchase for rust through / burn through
• Ash Pan AND Defective Parts AND Gas Grill Body (BOTTOM half) AND Side Burner: 1 year from date of purchase

Parts, Accessories, and Grill Covers:
1 year from date of purchase (seam tears only for covers)

Surface Rust:
Surface rust is not considered a manufacturing or materials defect. Surface issues such as scratches, dents, corrosion or discoloring caused by heat, abrasive and chemical cleaners, surface rust, or the discoloration of steel surfaces are NOT covered under these warranties.

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS

READ ALL SAFETY WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE ASSEMBLING AND OPERATING YOUR GRILL

Read the following instructions carefully and be sure your appliance is properly assembled, installed, and maintained. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious bodily injury and/or property damage. If you have any questions concerning assembly or operation, call 1-912-638-4724.

• Use caution when assembling and operating your grill to avoid scrapes or cuts from sharp edges.

• Do not use gasoline, kerosene or alcohol for lighting charcoal. Use of any of these or similar products could cause an explosion possibly leading to severe bodily injury.

• Do not used lighter fluid on already lit coals.

• Keep children & pets away from grill. Supervision is necessary and do not leave grill unattended when in use.

• Use caution when moving grill to prevent strains.

• Keep grill at least 12 feet from any combustible material (decks, buildings, fences, trees, bushes, etc).

• When adding charcoal and/or wood, use extreme caution.

• Never move grill when it is in use or when it contains hot coals or ashes, keep the grill in a level position at all times while in use.

• ALWAYS latch lid when lid is in closed position.

• Do not place grill near flammable liquids, gases or where flammable vapors may be present.

• When opening grill, first open slightly to let a small amount of air in for a few seconds. This prevents large amounts of oxygen from getting to suffocated coals which may cause dangerous flash back.

• Use caution since flames can flare-up when fresh air suddenly comes in contact with fire. When opening the lid, keep hands, face and body safe from hot steam and flame flare-ups.

• Removing excess fat before cooking will help prevent fl are-ups.

• Keep your grill clean to help prevent fl are-ups.

• Always put charcoal on top of the fire grate and not directly into the bottom of the grill.
  WARNING:  FUELS USED IN WOOD OR CHARCOAL BURNING APPLIANCES, AND THE PRODUCTS OF COMBUSTION OF SUCH FUELS, CAN EXPOSE YOU TO CHEMICALS INCLUDING CARBON BLACK, WHICH IS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, AND CARBON MONOXIDE, WHICH IS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM. For more information go to: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

• Do not exceed a temperature of 700˚ F.

• Do not allow charcoal and/or wood to rest on the walls of grill. Doing so will greatly reduce the life of the grill

• Always wear oven mitts to protect hands from burns, especially when adjusting dampers. Avoid touching hot surfaces.

• When opening lid, make sure it is pushed all the way back so it rests against the lid support bracket. Use extreme caution as hood could fall back to a closed position and cause bodily injury.

• Close lid and all dampers to help suffocate flame.

• Always hold an open lid from the handle to prevent it from closing unexpectedly.

• Never leave coals and ashes unattended. Before grill can be left unattended, coals and ashes must be removed. Use caution to protect yourself and property.

• Carefully place remaining coals and ashes in a noncombustible metal container and saturate completely with water. Allow coals and water to remain in metal container 24 hours prior to disposing.

• To protect against bacteria that could cause illness, keep all meats refrigerated and thaw in refrigerator or microwave. Keep raw meats separate from other foods, and wash everything that comes in contact with raw meat.

• Cook meat thoroughly, and refrigerate leftovers immediately.

• Use a calibrated food thermometer and the USDA guidelines to ensure that meat, poultry, seafood, and other cooked foods reach a safe minimum internal temperature.

• Grill is for use outdoors and in well-ventilated areas, only.

• Always have a fire extinguisher near at all times. Maintain and check your fire extinguisher regularly.

REGISTER YOUR GRILL:

• To take full advantage of the Char-Griller warranty be sure to register your grill by visiting www.CharGriller.com/Register or calling Customer Service at 1-912-638-4724.
• Registration provides important protections:
  1. In the extremely unlikely event of a product recall Char-Griller can easily contact you and rectify the issue.
  2. If a warrantied part is broken or missing we can send you the needed parts promptly.

NOTE:  You will need your model #, serial number, and a copy of the original sales receipt when registering.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

A COPY OF THE DATED PROOF OF PURCHASE (RECEIPT) IS REQUIRED WHEN REGISTERING OR SUBMITTING A WARRANTY* CLAIM. PLEASE RETAIN A COPY OF THE RECEIPT FOR YOUR RECORDS. Char-Griller® will replace any defective part of its grillers/smokers, under warranty, as outlined below. PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION IN DETAIL AND IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-912-638-4724 OR SERVICE@CHARGRILLER.COM.

Charcoal / Pellet / Kamado Grills|
---|---
     Grill – Hood AND Bottom (excludes removable Ash Pan)|       5 years from date of purchase for rust          through / burn through
     Ash Pan AND Defective Parts|      1 year from date of purchase
Gas Grills|
---|---
      Grill Hood (TOP half) AND Main Burner Tubes (exckudes Side Burner)| 5 years from date of purchase for rust          through / burn through
      Grill Body (BOTTOM half) AND Side Burner        AND Defective Parts| 1 year from date of purchase
Dual Fuel Grills (Gas & Charcoal)|
---|---
       Charcoal Grill – Hood AND Bottom AND Gas Grill Hood (TOP half) AND Main Burner Tubes (excludes Ash Pan and Side Burner)|       5 years from date of purchase for rust          through / burn through
       Ash Pan AND Defective Parts AND Gas Grill Body (BOTTOM half) AND Side Burner|      1 year from date of purchase
Parts, Accessories, and Grill Covers|      1 year from date of purchase (seam tears only for covers)
---|---

SURFACE RUST IS NOT CONSIDERED A MANUFACTURING OR MATERIALS DEFECT

• Char-Griller® grills are made of steel and if exposed to the elements rust will occur naturally. Please refer to the section entitled, “Usage” to review how to care for your grill properly.
• Surface issues such as scratches, dents, corrosion or discoloring by heat, abrasive and chemical clearers, surface rust or the discoloration of steel surfaces are NOT covered under these warranties.
• Warranties are for the replacement of defective parts only. Char-Griller® is not responsible for damage resulting from accident, alteration, misuse, abuse, hostile environments, improper installation, and installation not in accordance with local codes of service of unit.

Excluded Under ALL Warranties
Paint; Surface Rust; Heat Damage; Incorrect Parts ordered by customer, including shipping; Worn Parts; Missing or damaged parts not reported within two (2) months of purchase date; Defective parts not reported within one (1) year of purchase date; Fading grill cover.

NOTE:  For warranty claims, photos and prepaid return of the item in question may be required. Misuse, abuse or commercial use nullifies all warranties.

Parts List

HARDWARE LIST AND TOOLS REQUIRED

(Tools Not Included) 7/16″ nut driver

Hardware: Pack:

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

• Step 1 Place GRILL BODY upside down and install LEG BRACKETS with three (3) ½ inch hex bolts each. Next install LEGS (3) with two (2) ½ inch hex bolts and two 1/4 inch lock washers each into LEG BRACKETS. DO Not Tighten Bolts Until After Step #3. Screw CASTER onto rear leg, lock CASTER before tightening. Make Sure the leg with the caster is in the back and wheel support braces on the front legs are facing outward.
• Step 2  Attach BOTTOM SHELF to LEGS with five 1/2 inch hex bolts and lock washers.
• Step 3  Insert AXLE through front LEGS and BOTTOM SHELF. Tighten all bolts.
• Step 4 Install one WASHER, COTTER PIN and HUB CAP onto the AXLE then slide the AXLE through WHEELS and legs as shown. Finish by attaching 2nd WASHER, COTTER PIN and HUB CAP.
• Step 5 Turn grill upright, LOCK CASTER and place HOOD on the GRILL BODY. Attach hinge on back of HOOD to GRILL BODY using four (4) 3/4 inch hex bolts with thread locking compound.
• Step 6 Attach FRONT HANDLE to HOOD with four (4) 1/2 inch hex bolts. First attach one HANDLE BRACKET to the Lid and then hold the HANDLE in place while attaching the other HANDLE BRACKET to the Lid. HANDLE BRACKETS are left and right handed.
• Step 7  Attach SIDE SHELVES to SIDE SHELF BRACKETS using two (2) shoulder bolts and two (2) hex nuts for each shelf.
• Step 8 To install ASH PAN, hold ASH PAN up against the bottom of the GRILL BODY from the front with the center pin on the inside. Slide the ASH PAN back and use clips on the sides of the grill to snap into position as shown.
• Step 9 Position O-Ring on bottom of damper by rolling it up to the bead. With O-Ring in position, install DAMPER with two (2) 1/2 inch bolts from inside the HOOD. Damper coating will scratch with use. This does not affect the function or performance of the damper. Next, install THERMOMETER GASKET, THERMOMETER, and BEZEL with wing nut, as shown below. NOTE: Heat Gauge:
  • This heat gauge is accurate to +/- 10% of the actual temperature. We suggest verifying this with your oven. You will not be able to adjust / calibrate the AKORN heat gauge, but you will be knowledgeable as to its degree of accuracy.
  • If you require precise temperature control, we recommend using a digital meat thermometer.
• Step 10  Install: FIRE BOWL, FIRE GRATE, COOKING GRATES and WARMING RACK inside of the lower body.
• Step 11: Attach six (6) UTENSIL HOOKS to the underside of the two side shelves (3 each). Use depressions in the wood as a starting point for screwing in the UTENSIL HOOKS.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Setting Up

• Set grill up on solid, flat surface with adequate wind shelter. Do not move grill while hot, and do not leave unattended during operation.
• This appliance is designed for use outdoors, away from any flammable materials. It is important that there are no overhead obstructions and that there is a minimum distance of 12 feet (~4 m) from the side or rear of the appliance. It is important that the ventilation openings of the appliance are not obstructed. The barbecue must be used on a level, stable surface. The appliance should be protected from direct drafts and positioned or protected against direct penetration by any trickling water (e.g. rain).

PLEASE NOTE : NO RETURNS ON USED GRILLS

Seasoning and Preparing the Grill   IMPORTANT!
 BEFORE YOU USE YOUR GRILL FOR THE FIRST TIME YOU MUST SEASON THE CAST IRON COOKING GRATE. Before you use your grill it is important to season it. Seasoning will burn off coating used to protect your grill during shipping and help protect your cast iron grates from rusting while preparing them for use.

1. Wash your cooking grates in warm soapy water.
2. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a towel. DO NOT AIR DRY. NEVER PUT YOUR COOKING GRATE OR ANY PART OF YOUR GRILL IN YOUR DISHWASHER.
3.  Once your cooking grate is dry apply a coating of vegetable oil or shortening to your cooking grate, be sure to coat both sides thoroughly.
4. Build a medium sized fire on the fire grate. Always put charcoal on top of the fire grate and not directly into the bottom of the grill. For best results, we recommend using Lump Charcoal.
5. After coals ash over, spread out coals, replace cooking grates, close lid and heat at approximately 400° F for an hour. This process will burn off any residue left from shipping and manufacturing as well as season your cast iron cooking grate.
6. Seasoning should be done periodically to lengthen the life of your cooking grate.

TIP:  Clean grates while warm using gloves and a baseball-sized aluminum foil ball.

Lighting Your Grill

Note : we recommend using Lump Charcoal because they contain no additives or fillers. This makes for more efficient burning, less ash than charcoal briquettes and much better tasting food.

More air flow means more heat.

For Regular use:
Make a pyramid of Lump Charcoal in the center of the fire grate 1.5—2 lbs. Lump Charcoal (about the weight of two 12 oz sodas.) Light using fire starters or a charcoal chimney starter. WE RECOMMEND NOT TO USE LIGHTER FLUIDS. Leave LID open until the coals are lit and there is no black smoke com-ing from the coals, Smoke should be clear/white and there should be no flames coming off the coals. Starter sticks (we recommend starter sticks with no kerosene, fats, or scents) should be completely burned before you begin cooking. Adjust dampers to control temperature. More air flow means more heat.

For lower temperature (250 ˚F and below), long duration grilling and smoking:
Use approximately 1lb. of mostly computer mouse or larger sized pieces of Lump Charcoal to build a fire in the center of the fire grate. Start fire as described above. Once the fire has reached your desired cooking temperature adjust dampers to let less air through, monitor your grill temperature and adjust accordingly.
For High temperature grilling (650 ˚F and above):
Use mostly smaller pieces of Lump Charcoal, golf ball sized, and more than you would normally use for regular grilling (2—3 lbs. Lump Charcoal). After you start a fire as described above leave damper open to maintain a high temperature. Coals will burn more quickly and more can be added by using the re- movable center fire grate.
For Smoking:

1. Follow instructions for lower temperature cooking (350˚F and below).
2. Pre-soak wood chips for 35 minutes. Soak chunks for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until wood is completely saturated.
3. After grill has reached desired temperature, sprinkle two handfuls of soaked wood chips or chunks over the lit charcoals.
4. Let the chips begin to smoke by closing the lid.
5. You can begin cooking after a few minutes. More soaked chips may be added to the fire later if necessary.

Heat Gauge:
This heat gauge is accurate to +/- 10% of the actual temperature. We suggest verifying this with your oven. If you require more precise temperature control, the use of a meat thermometer is recommended.

NOTE:  Smoke may escape from areas other than the smokestack.

Cooking with INDIRECT Heat on a Kamado:
Smokin’ Stone™ and Pizza Stones are sold separately at CharGriller.com. Both Stones can be used interchangably.

• Smokin’ Stone, Grate, Drip Pan & Meat Rack

  • This is ideal for ROASTING large cuts of meat (low and slow). The meat stays flavorful and juicy as it slowly roasts and is basted in it’s own juices. Add apple juice or beer to drip pan if desired.
  • Place Smokin’ Stone™ on the three handles near the top of the Fire Bowl; followed by the Cooking Grate, a Drip Pan (any shallow aluminum pan will work), and a Meat Rack (sold separately).

• Smokin’ Stone, Drip Pan, Grate & Meat Rack
  This is another method of INDIRECT cooking. Also ideal for ROASTING large cuts of meat and ribs, this method catches the meat’s drippings below the grate.

• Smokin’ Stone, Drip Pan & Meat Rack
   This is a third method of INDIRECT cooking and an excellent way to cook large turkeys, chicken or other fowl.

• Grate, Pizza Stone, Drip Pan & Meat Rack
  Pizza Stone can be used as a Smokin’ Stone™ when placed on the Cooking Grate; with a Drip Pan on top of the Pizza Stone; then with a Meat Rack placed inside of the Drip Pan.

Finishing Up
When your are finished grilling you can shut down your grill by closing both dampers and allowing the fire to suffocate. Be patient. This make take an hour or more.

Emptying the Ashes:
  ONLY EMPTY ASHES WHILE GRILL IS NOT IS USE After the fire is completely extinguished you should wait several hours before emptying the ashes to ensure they are not still hot and a burn hazard.

1. Knock any ashes that did not fall into the ash pan from the fire grate. (If there are pieces of partially burned charcoal on the fire grate you can save them for next time. They are still good).
2. Tap the sides of the fire bowl to knock loose any ash that is on the sides.
3. Unclip the ash pan from the bottom of the grill and slide out towards the front.
4. Give the ash pan a few firm taps to loosen any ash that may be stuck.
5. Place the ashes in a metal container and cover with water to ensure there are no lit coals then you can dispose of the ashes.

IMPORTANT:  Charcoal is porous and holds moisture. DO NOT leave charcoal in your grill while you are not using it. Charcoal and ashes leftinside the ash pan may reduce the life of your grill.

TIPS FOR AKORN GRILLING

• (Direct Heat Above Coals)
  • Leave grill Lid down while cooking to eliminate flare ups & to provide even cooking
  • Add wood chips for flavor. When smoking, soak chips in water for 40 mins. prior to placing in the grill
  • Meat Thermometers give internal temperatures for rare, medium or well done. WHen testing temperatures, insert the probe into thickest part of meat.
  • If using a WIRED digital thermometer, we suggest running the probe’s wire thru the top damper so it’s not necessary to open lid to read the meat’s temperature. Opening the lid adds extra smoking time.
  • Over cooking causes the meat to dry out
  • Damper adjustments lowers or raises heat. Remeber, more air equals higher temperature.
  • EASIEST TEMPERATURE SETTING : Open bottom damper and only adjust the top damper. Opening or closing the top damper ¼” generally adjusts the temperature up or down approximately 25°F.
  • To lower the temperature: Close both dampers & open lid intermittently to release the hot air. Additionally, you can hand spray a little cold water on the coals to reduce the temperature faster.
  • Closing both dampers after cooking will extinguish the fire and preserve some charcoal for next time.
  • LUMP CHARCOAL is recommended as fuel because it lights faster, burns hotter, cleaner, adds flavor, has less ash clean up, lasts longer (18 to 24 hrs) and you can use less lump charcoal than briquettes.
  • In order to avoid unnatural after-taste on your food, do not use lighter fluid. Rather, use an electric starter or fire starters.
  • When cooking at high temperature, open lid slowly or open top damper 10 seconds before opening to avoid fireball or flash back.
  • Bring meats to room temp before cooking.
  • When starting fire, after coals are lit but before they turn white, you can close the lid and start regulating dampers to control internal dome temperature.
• STEAKS
  • Trim excess fat and apply a dry rub to both sides of steaks.
  • Sear 1 ½ inch steaks on the AKORN™ directly over the coals for 2 or 3 minutes at 650° F.
  • Flip the steaks and grill for another 2 or 3 minutes.
  • Flip steaks again and shut both top and bottom dampers and let steaks remain on grill for another 3 or 4 minutes before removing.
  • Internal meat temperatures: 145° F – Med Rare; 160° F -Med; 170° F -Well Done.
  • Dry Rub Seasoning:
  • Mix 1/8 cup kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp white pepper
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Apply to both sides.
  • Steak Marinade:  In a glass pan mix:
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 1 minced garlic clove
  • small minced onion
  • ¼ tsp pepper Place the meat in the marinade and refrigerate for 3 hours.
• BURGERS:
  • Grill ½ lb Burgers exactly the same as Steaks EXCEPT… grill for 2 minutes before each flip.
  • Char-Griller “Special” Burger: For a special burger treat, mix hamburger with Meat Magic®, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, kosher salt, ground pepper, chopped onions & let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature.
• HAMBURGER (or, really any meat!) MARINADE:
  • Combine 1 cup soy sauce
  • 2 coarsely chopped large onions
  • 2 cloves garlic (halved)
  • Place in an electric blender; cover, process at high speed for 1 minute or until mixture is smooth.
  • Stir in ¼ cup bottle gravy coloring (Kitchen Bouquet®& Gravy Master®)
  • 2 tsp Beau Monde seasoning (or substitute 1tsp MSG & 1tsp seasoned salt)
  • Marinate meat at room temp for 2 hrs or refrigerate up to 24 hrs in a covered dish.
  •  Bring meat to room temp before cooking.
• RACK OF LAMB:
  • A typical rack of lamb is 8 bones and weighs 1 1/2 to 2 pounds. A single rack of lamb is perfect for two people. A big investment, but a fantastic meal. Bottom end has a thick, round piece of meat, which on the rack is like a long, thin roast. Once cut it is like a small pork chop. Ask your butcher to remove the thin skin from outside of the rack & cut off the chine bone to make it easier to carve.
  • Preparation:
  • Wrap bare long bones sticking up from rack with foil (to avoid crusting). Do not overcook or cook at too high a temperature because these bones can burn and crumble. Keep the bones up, away from the fire by placing in a “U” Rack.
  • Remove loose pieces of fat. Dry with paper towel & season with mustard, salt, pepper & garlic
  • Sear lamb quickly over hot fire at 500° F for 3 mins per side then drop heat and/or move the rack to a cooler part of the grill to let center roast. This creates a perfect caramelized crust and keeps the center tender and juicy.
  • Close lid and let sit for another 5 minutes.
  • Test internal temperature as you go. Do not overcook. Lamb is rare at 120° F; medium 150° F
  • Remove from grill and tent under foil for 10 mins before carving (this is called, “Resting”). The rack will continue to cook and increase a couple degrees on the inside while resting.
  • To carve the rack of lamb, stand it up on the meat side with the bones curving away from you.
  • Slide a sharp knife down, between the bones cutting gently through the meat. You should be able to see the bones all the way down along the back side of the rack.
• CHICKEN (Requires Slower Grilling):
  • First, cut and remove the center bone from the chicken.
  • Flatten the breast by pressing flat until the cartilage is broken.
  • Rub olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle thyme, parsley, sage, rosemary, salt & pepper.
  • Grill with skin side down for approximately 17 minutes at 350° F or until skin is crispy;
  • Flip and grill for approximately 28 minutes or until internal chicken temperature is 160° F.
• CHICKEN MARINADE:
  • Combine ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp sweet basil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder w/ parsley
  • ¼ tsp pepper.
  •  Pour over chicken pieces in glass dish.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight. Use marinade to baste chicken while cooking
• CEDAR PLANK SALMON:
  • Soak planks for 3-4 hrs before cook. Rub salmon with olive oil, dizzy pig raging rub & lemon.
  • Prepare AKORN™ at 425°
  • Place plank on grill. Once it starts ‘crackling,’ Place salmon on grill (around 5 minutes)
  •  For thick salmon filets, estimate about 10 – 13 minutes for the fish to start ‘flaking’.
• SWEET CORN IN HUSKS:
  • Trim excess silk from end and soak in cold salted water 1 hour before grilling.
  • Grill 25 minutes – turning several times.
• QUAIL OR DOVES:
  • Cover birds in Italian dressing and marinate overnight.
  • Pour remaining dressing and cover with Texas Pete® Hot Sauce for 6 hours.
  • Wrap birds in thick bacon secured by a toothpick.
  • Place on grill. Keep turning until bacon is black.
  • Grill for 20 minutes. Sear with lid open at HIGH temperature (500-700° F) for 1 minute on each side before closing lid and lowering temperature.
• KABOBS:
  • Alternating on skewers any combination of meat, onions, tomatoes, green peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, circular slice of corn-on-the-cob, or pineapple. Meat could consist of chunks of shrimp, scallops, lobster, chicken, sausage, pork, beef, etc.
  • Marinate the meat in refrigerator for several hours.
  • Grill each side approximately 7 minutes turning occasionally while basting with marinade. Leave a small amount of room between pieces in order to cook faster.
  • Grill with lid up and the fire grate in the lowest position. See marinade recipe on last page.
• Kabob Marinade:
  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup vinegar
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Mix all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to boil.
  • Allow marinade to cool before marinating your meat in it.
  • Marinate beef in mixture a minimum of 4 hours.
• SHRIMP (Peeled) & CRAYFISH:
  • Place on skewers.
  • Coat with melted butter and garlic salt.
  • Grill 4 minutes on each side or until pink. Cocktail sauce optional.
• BAKED POTATOES:
  • Rub with butter and wrap in foil and cook on grill with lid down for 50 minutes.
  • Turn after 25 minutes (no need to turn if smoked).
  • Squeeze to check for doneness.

TIPS FOR AKORN SMOKING

• Smoke long and slow in the 200° to 350° F range
• Adjust the dampers for desired temperature. Remember, more air equals higher temperature.
• Lump charcoal is preferred over briquettes.
• Put several layers of charcoal in firebox with soaked hickory chips (soak 40 min to 3 hrs) mixed in or on top of coals for a wood smoke flavor to the meat.
• Use less lump charcoal than you would briquettes.
• For slow cooking, (250 to 350°) build small fire and light with fire starter at top of the charcoal pile
• Light charcoal pile at bottom for high temp fires. Easy to heat up, harder to bring down.
• Bring meat to room temp before cooking and use meat thermometer to know when done.

Indirect Heat

• PORK BUTT or VENISON (bone in – 6/9 lbs):

  • 1 cup commercial dry BBQ rub and/or deeply inject seasoning of your choice into meat
  • Work the rub into the butt until it is moist.
  • Wrap in saran and place in refrigerator for 3 to 5 hours.
  • Cook the butt for 18 hours at 235° F or when internal meat temperature reaches 200°F.
  • Remove & double wrap in foil and let sit 30 minutes before pulling apart.

• RACK OF BABY BACK RIBS:

  • Remove membrane by placing the tip of a meat thermometer between the membrane and a bone near the end of the rack of ribs.
  • Work membrane loose and peel it off.
  • Wash the ribs under cool water.
  • Apply dry rub to all sides and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  • Smoke for 1½ hr at 325° F.
  • Remove meat from grill and brush all sides with honey BBQ sauce.
  • Put meat into a rib rack in a foil pan with 1” apple juice.
  • Cover with foil & cook 1 hr at 325°F or until pork’s internal meat temp is: Med 160°F; Well Done 170°F; Insert tooth picks to test tenderness.
  • Remove and serve.
  • Char-Griller Rib Sauce:
  • 1 cup of your favorite dry BBQ rub
  • 1 cup of honey
  • 1 ½ cup apple juice
  • 2 cups honey BBQ sauce.
  • Mix thoroughly and brush on ribs

• RIB ROAST:

  • Preparation:
  • Use a 4 lb standing rib roast
  • Rub seasoning over the entire roast
  • 1 TBS paprika
  • 3 TBS crushed garlic
  • 2 TBS Worcestershire
  • 2 tsp Adolph’s tenderizer.
  •  Apply salt & pepper to suit your tastes.
  •  Set roast aside in V rack.
  • In casserole dish, mix
  • 1 cup rock salt
  • 1 TBS flour
  • one egg wht
  • 1 TBS water to tacky paste.
  • Place roast back in casserole dish and press the salt/flour mixture on to the roast surface.
  • Continue to do so until the entire roast surface is covered with the salt/flour mix.  Note:  Use cheese cloth to hold the salt to the surface of the roast if desired.
  • Cooking Directions:
  • Over a drip pan with no water, place roast in to roasting rack
  • Cook roast 15 minutes per pound at 500 to 525°F for medium rare
  • Put meat thermometer in roast last 30 mins cooking: 145°rare; 160°med; 175°well done
  • When cooking is done, remove roast and allow it to sit uncovered for 10 minutes
  • Break shell of salt away from roast & remove. Salt will be brittle and may have to scraped from meat surface.
  • Let roast sit another 5 mins, slice and serve.
  • Au Jus Sauce:
  • In 10” skillet or shallow pan place 4 to 6 small chunks of roast along with 3 to 4 TBS water.
  • Stir & heat over med heat until water becomes dark & viscous from the chunks of roast.
  • Add 1 to 2 cups of water and increase heat under pan.
  • When water just starts to boil, add 2 teaspoons of beef bullion crystals.
  • Stir until crystals are completely dissolved.
  • Remove from heat, strain to remove any chunks of roast used for flavoring and serve.

• PRIME RIBS: (Bone In)  Smaller end often juicier (2 bones = 4 people)

  • Season prime rib with garlic, pepper, BBQ rub, and wrap in plastic & let sit for at least 1 hr.
  • Place drip pan below to catch drippings
  • Sear the outside for a crust or others prefer to cook at 350° for 3 hours for 8 lb prime rib
  • Remove before the prime rib is cooked, tent in foil and let sit for 10 minutes.

• TURKEY or WHOLE CHICKEN : Use up to a 15 lb Turkey or 8 lb Chicken.

  • Place Bird vertically (up right) on cone wire rack in a drip pan. You can also lay the bird horizontally in “U” Meat Rack.
    NOTE:  Using the optional Smokin’ Stone AKORN accessory is ideal for this method. Simply remove the cooking grate and place the Smokin’ Stone directly above the fire grate. This provides indirect heat, keeps the meat juicy, and offers more cooking space for large cuts of meat.

  • Apply commercial dry rub, salt & pepper on entire bird and apply rub under the breast skin at neck and some inside the cavity.

  • Fill drip pan with 2 cups chicken broth, wine, water, celery & onion.

  •  Cook approx 12 minutes per lb at 325°F until internal meat temp (in breast) is 160°F.

  • Use drippings in the Drip Pan to make gravy.

• SMOKED TURKEY:

  • Empty cavity rinse and pat dry with paper towel.
  • Tuck wing tips under the back and tie legs together
  • Place in center of cooking grid directly above foil drip pan of water.
  • Smoke for 12 minutes per pound. Allow several extra minutes per pound if stuffed to allow for expansion.
  • Use a meat thermometer for best results (190F internal).

• SMOKED BAKED HAM:  You can smoke fully cooked canned ham or smoked and cured whole ham or shank or butt portion.

  • Glaze
  • 1 cup of light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • Combine sugar, juice and honey. Let glaze sit for at least 4 hours.
  • Place fire grate in the lowest position and a drip pan under the meat.
  • Remove rind and score fat diagonally to give a diamond effect.
  • Insert a whole clove into the center of every diamond.
  • Place ham with fat side up in center of cooking grid directly above drip pan. Close lid.
  • About 9 minutes per pound is suggested for fully cooked hams. Smoked or cured ham, which is not fully cooked, should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Baste with ham glaze 3 or 4 times during last 30 minutes of cooking time.
  • Garnish with pineapple rings about 15 minutes before end of cooking time.

• SMOKED HOT DOGS STUFFED:

  • Slit hot dogs lengthwise, within 1/4 inch of each end.
  • Stuff hot dogs with cheese and relish and wrap in bacon.
  • Place on cooking grid over drip pan and smoke 15-20 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

• SMOKED CHICKEN PARTS AND HALVES:

  • Rinse pieces in cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  • Brush each piece with vegetable oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Brown pieces directly above coals with lid open for several minutes.
  • Then place pieces on cooking grate directly above drip pan.
  • With the grate in the low position, cook with lid down for 55 to 60 minutes or until done. Do not use vegetable oil or salt and pepper if using marinade.

• SMOKED VENISON:

  • Venison Marinade:
  • 1 cup Balsamic or wine vinegar
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 2 oz. Worcestershire
  • 1/2 oz. Tabasco
  • 2 tbsp. Season All
  • 1-2 chopped jalapenos
  • 3 oz. soy sauce
  • Bacon Marinade
  • 2 oz. wine vinegar
  • 2 oz. Worcestershire
  • 4 dashes Tabasco
  • Place leg of venison in a container or “hefty bag” and marinate for 2-4 days, turning daily. Marinate bacon overnight in its marinade.
  • Remove roast from refrigerator at least an hour before cooking.
  • Season generously with seasoned salt and coarse ground black pepper.
  • Wrap 1 lb. Bacon over the top of the roast, and smoke 20/25 minutes per pound, or until tender. Do not overcook.

• SMOKED SHRIMP & CRAYFISH:

  • Mix in a foil pan 1/2 cup butter, two cloves of crushed garlic, Tabasco, sliced green pepper, 1 tablespoon each of minced onions, salt and juices from one lemon.
  • Add shrimp and/ or crayfish and smoke 45 minutes.

• SMOKED VEGETABLES:

  • Turnips, potatoes, carrots, okra, mushrooms, peeled onions, zucchini, squash, etc.
  • Put in pan and cover with water and cook for several hours while cooking the meat. Or place vegetables on grill and smoke for 50 minutes, either wrapped in foil or not.

• SMOKED FISH:

  • Marinate in brine (1/4 cup dissolved in 1 qt of water) or marinate fish in 1 cup white wine, 1 cup soy sauce mixed with 1 cup lemon juice.
  • Marinate overnight in covered dish in refrigerator.
  • Let air on rack 20 minutes before placing on Pam®-sprayed grill.
  • Smoke 25 minutes.

• SMOKED SPARE/BACK RIBS:

  • Peel off tough layer of skin on back side.
  • Rub all surfaces with seasoning.
  • Place ribs in center of grid above drip pan and smoke approximately 1 1/2 hours or until meat pulls away from bone.
  • Baste with barbecue sauce during last 30 minutes.

BAKING on the AKORN
Bake pizza, bread, cornbread, biscuits, cobblers, cookies and pies. We recommend purchasing the Smokin’ Stone™ and/or Pizza / Baking Stone accessory for best results. The stone allows moisture to be drawn from dough and provides crispy and light crusts.

BAKED BREAKFAST PIZZA:

• Start by smoking center cut bacon on the AKORN™.
• Next scramble 4 or 5 eggs on the stove, or use Cast Iron skillet and make on the AKORN™.
• While the eggs are cooking, brown several cups of hash browns.
• Make or purchase 1 jar (approx 10 oz) white gravy.
• Use a precooked pizza crust and spread a layer of white gravy onto it.
• Next mixed hash browns, eggs and bacon into a bowl and place them onto the pizza crust
• Top with cheese and more gravy.
• Cook at 450° for approximately 13 mins

12 inch HOME MADE PIZZA:

• Sauce:  1 Tbsp olive oil, 1/2 onion diced small, 1 clove garlic minced, 1 x 15-oz can whole tomatoes, 1 sprig Fresh Oregano, 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/8 tsp ground pepper
• Crust:  1½ cups warm water, 2 TBS olive oil, 2 tsp kosher salt, 3 x 3/4 cups bread flour, ½ corn meal, 2 tsp sugar, 2 tsp rapid rise yeast
• Preparation
  • Sauce:
  • Heat the oil in a 1-1/2 qt sauce pan. Cook the onion and garlic until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir as necessary.
  • Add tomatoes, crush lightly with hands as added. Add juice too. Strip leaves from oregano stem & chop
  • Add oregano & sugar. Simmer, stir occasionally for about 20-30 mins, until thickened. Add salt / pepper.
  • Crust
  • Purchase ready-made crust or dough, or…..
  • Place ingredients in the order listed into bread machine. Run machine on pizza cycle. To use immediately, move to Pizza Screen (or place in oiled bowl, cover & place in refrigerator until ready touse).
  • Pizza
  • Add the sauce and other ingredients (if you like) to the crust.
  • The pizza can be cooked two different ways.
  1. Preheat grill to 650°. Wet pizza stone (to cool), place pizza on stone and cook 6 mins.
  2. If grill cannot achieve hot temp, then pre-heat grill to 350° and cook 15-20 mins (until golden brown)
  • Let sit for 5 minutes and enjoy! Pizza screen will help take pizza on and off grill.

BEEF CUTS

PORK CUTS

Keep your receipt with this manual for Warranty.

CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-912-638-4724 Service@CharGriller.com
Contents of this manual are Trademarked and Copyrighted by Char-Griller | A&J Manufacturing. Using the information contained in this manual without consent of Char-Griller and/or A&J Manufacturing is strictly prohibited.

For Pricing or to Order, Visit: www.CharGriller.com or CALL: 912-638-4724 or FAX : 912-638-2580 or MAIL : P.O. Box 30864 Sea Island, GA 31561 Visit our online store at: www.CharGriller.com for more Char-Griller® Professional Accessories™

™ & © Char-Griller / A&J Mfg.

References

• Char-Griller BBQ Grills and Smokers
• greenegggrilling.com
• Naked Whiz Publishing Empire
• Nibble Me This
• Manual-Hub.com – Free PDF manuals!

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