In early October, over 5,000 enthusiastic fans of the beloved Big Green Egg gathered at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, a suburb of Atlanta, to celebrate Oktoberfest. This annual event has grown significantly since it began in 1998 as a small meetup of dedicated fans, or “EGGheads.”
Attendees enjoyed cooking demonstrations featuring mouthwatering dishes like braised pork belly tacos, live music, and the opportunity to sample creative recipes from fellow Big Green Egg owners.
This year was particularly special as it marked the 50th anniversary of Big Green Egg and a Guinness World Record for serving the most significant amount of chicken wings—an impressive 655.8 pounds sourced from Georgia’s Springer Mountain Farms.
A Legacy of Flavor
Entrepreneur Ed Fisher introduced the Big Green Egg to the public in 1974, showcasing these unique dome-shaped kamado ovens in his Atlanta storefront. Initially designed for cooking rice in Japan, these grills quickly captured customers’ attention.
Fisher’s decision to bring them to the United States alongside popular pachinko machines was genius. Fifty years later, the Big Green Egg impresses grill enthusiasts with its remarkable cooking capabilities and versatility.
Dan Gertsacov, the CEO of Big Green Egg, expressed the joy of cooking over fire, stating, “It is the most enjoyable way to cook. We’ve been cooking over fire for thousands of years, so cooking on the Egg is just a continuation of that ritual.”
He emphasized that the Big Green Egg is more than just food; it’s about creating lasting memories with family, friends, and neighbors.
A Multifunctional Grill
The Big Green Egg is more than just a grill; it’s a culinary powerhouse. Fueled by all-natural lump hardwood charcoal, it grills juicy burgers and brats, roasts turkey, smokes ribs, stir-fries shrimp, and bakes pies.
With a range of accessories, including a pizza stone and cast-iron Dutch oven, the cooking possibilities are endless.
Originally crafted from clay, the Big Green Egg’s design has evolved to use a durable, heat-insulating ceramic approved by NASA. This upgrade ensures longevity and performance, while the rich green porcelain glaze makes it an eye-catching addition to any backyard.
A Grill for Every Occasion
Big Green Egg offers a variety of sizes to suit different needs and occasions. From the compact mini, perfect for intimate picnics, to the 2XL, which can cook up to 20 steaks at once, there’s an option for everyone.
According to Gertsacov, “We make great, lasting grills that people pass down from generation to generation.”
He believes cooking traditions are essential for fostering connections and understanding the significance of food beyond mere nourishment.
However, the price tag for a Big Green Egg can be steep. The large model, which is the most popular size, costs around $1,149.99.
While its craftsmanship and efficiency may justify the cost for severe BBQ enthusiasts, those who only grill occasionally might find it a bit much.
A Culinary Experience on Vacation
If owning a Big Green Egg isn’t practical due to budget constraints or limited outdoor space, there’s still a chance to enjoy the experience. Many hotels increasingly incorporate the Big Green Egg into their offerings, providing guests with unique culinary opportunities.
Hotels like The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa, and Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, embrace this trend, allowing guests to explore local food traditions under the guidance of knowledgeable chefs.
The grill has become an integral part of the food and beverage program at the InterContinental Buckhead, situated in the heart of Big Green Egg’s hometown. Banquet chef David Royal, a dedicated EGGhead, explains how the grill enhances their offerings “It allows us to elevate classic grill items—everything from smoked meats to vegetables.”
The hotel can set up the Big Green Egg in various picturesque locations, like its Windsor Garden, to create interactive dining experiences. This setup lets guests engage not just with the final dish but also with the entire culinary journey.
Celebrating 50 Years of Cooking
As Big Green Egg marks this significant milestone, it reflects on its journey and the community it has fostered. The brand has transformed cooking into an experience filled with connection and joy.
Gertsacov’s words resonate with many gathered around the grill, making cherished memories with friends and family.
The Big Green Egg’s story is one of innovation, community, and a passion for cooking. From its humble beginnings to becoming a staple in backyards across the country, it continues to inspire culinary creativity and foster connections.
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Big Green Egg remains committed to making cooking a joyous experience, one meal at a time.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an avid griller or enjoy the occasional BBQ, the Big Green Egg offers a unique way to enhance your cooking adventures. With its impressive capabilities and the community it has built, this grill is more than just a cooking appliance; it brings people together.
So, gather your friends and family, fire up the Big Green Egg, and create lasting memories over a delicious meal.
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