Hey man! Excellent video with lots of detail. Would love to see more cooks on your junior. I’ve recently just got one and struggle to find cooks/recipes I can follow along at home until I master it. I’ve recently also bought some cast iron pans for cooking. Be great to see stuff geared towards accessory substitutes for people with the junior. Anyway awesome as always. 👌
Thanks! Will do Emmet, really appreciate you watching, commenting and subscribing. Just did our first pizza on the Joe Jr. this weekend and will be making that into a video to show how it went / what we learned etc.
@@SmokingDadBBQI know this is an older video but I am wondering the warranty on the Joe jr.? I want one but want to make sure it has some support if it accidentally cracks. Thanks
I've just started using the JJ, and having never done fire based cooking, I was shocked at not only how good the flavour is, but how much I can fit in. First cook I did was a whole chicken with pork belly burnt ends around it. The second cook was another whole chicken with 9 drumsticks around it. I'm cooking a pork shoulder tomorrow for what I assume will be about 8 hours - the only thing I'm worried about is how much fuel to use. One of the biggest surprises I had was at how little fuel you need to use to sustain temperature for a long time. I'm left with a significant amount of fuel that I've re-used in the next cook. It's a genuinely amazing product that has opened up my BBQ world.
I had been wanting to buy a smoker for a while, but had a limited budget. Your video convinced me the Joe Jr was the way to go. Since getting the Jr a few weeks back I've cooked roast chicken, pork shoulder, steak for fajitas and most recently a small brisket flat, all went really well and tasted delicious. Never thought I would be BBQing in the UK winter! Thanks again for the videos.
Doh! Accidentally posted comment when my son was logged in, so reposting myself. I had been wanting to buy a smoker for a while, but had a limited budget. Your video convinced me the Joe Jr was the way to go. Since getting the Jr a few weeks back I've cooked roast chicken, pork shoulder, steak for fajitas and most recently a small brisket flat, all went really well and tasted delicious. Never thought I would be BBQing in the UK winter! Thanks again for the videos.
i just came across this video while i’ve been debating what size would be adequate for me...this pretty much answered all of my questions...picking it up and moving it around myself is pretty important to me...so thank you for making my decision so much easier!!
The short answer is Yes, it is. I have three smaller barbeques, all around 150 sq. inches, and they have handled family barbequing well. The upsides they provide that you haven’t mentioned is less charcoal, faster startup time, portability, yet the same great cooking attributes.
That's it. Pulled the trigger on a Joe Jr today!! As a new dad and soon to be smoking neighbor just across the Michigan/Ontario border, thanks for the great content! Your enthusiasm is infectious!!
I have a Jr and a classic. I have had them for three years. In the summer we keep JR in the rv. We do most of our cooking on it as we travel. It keeps the rv cooler. And cooks great meals. Love them both. We are raving fans of Kamado joe. Love your video's.
Thanks for all the Jr. videos. I'm seriously looking at adding it to my lineup and they have been extremely helpful, especially the comparison with the BGE counterpart.
Great video! I'll definitely be adding the junior to my line up at some point. I think it offers a great size for smaller cooks where you don't need to fire up the classic
Awesome . I’d love to see some tutorials on going low and slow with the Joe jr. obviously it doesn’t have some of the helpful accessories that the classic does for that purpose. Cheers!
Thanks so much. Happy to do that, in the meantime check out last weeks video (8hr low and slow on the jr) as I walk through some setup info at the beginning that might help - ua-cam.com/video/dPSGNDWDIXk/v-deo.html
@@SmokingDadBBQ thanks a lot. I was toying with the idea of a joe jr and your latest video has almost sealed the deal. Now I'm just going to plant the seed in my wife's head haha. Looking forward to seeing the new grills in action!
As always, your explanations and reasonings are spot on. The Jr will comfortably feed 4 adults and it is almost as capable as the ‘proper’ size Joes. I said almost because there is no sloroller or rotisserie and basket accessories available for the Jr. this makes it deficient in cooking things such as crispy chicken wings compared with the bigger Joes. Other than that, the Jr is simply AMAZING and cooks everything brilliantly. I followed Smoking dad’s video on cooking pizzas and the pizzas that came out of the Joe Jr rival those from traditional wood fired ovens! Worth every single dollar
Thanks for all the videos… I‘ve had a BGE for well over a decade and these videos hav helped me step up my game with it at our vacation property… just got my Joe Jr this week for home and am looking forward to breaking it in. Then going to add a Big Joe for family events.
Thanks I've been thinking of getting the little Joe because I'm tired of using my big Joe for just myself. Like to just cook a steak or something its so charcoal hungry and doesn't sear well unless you REALLY load it up to the top and waisted all that extra.
Just ordered my first KJ tonight , and it was the JR. You just made my day with this video. I eventually will go bigger but for now I need to learn the ropes for this style of cooler. I’m used to gas 😢 and have a Webber kettle which I really love. Now to find your old video on how to start it how much lump , wood , etc. thanks
I’ve been wanting a Kamado for some time but worried about the entry cost (I want the Big Joe 3 but it’s $3k) I just order the Joe Jr (it arrives tomorrow) as my first foray in to ceramic grill cooking to be sure I will enjoy as much as am hoping I will.
Thank you for the video! Love the channel. Please do more JR cooks. Interested in low & slow pork butt & wings. Also a video detailing what accessories are available for the Joe Jr. Thanks!
I have a Big Joe and am really looking into the Jr. It would be great for quick weeknight meals and also to be able to bring it on the road. I also loved your old table and will build myself one next year when we redo the deck. Thanks for the awesome videos as usual.
Love your videos! I purchased a Junior next to my classic 3. Struggled with temperature at first cook with Junior. I have the ash basket installed and the original bottom grate with the holes in it. What do you recommend? Get the original bottom grate out for better airflow? Thanks!
Brilliant! Thanks for another great video, James. Very informative, and you may have just sold me on my next purchase. The Joe Jr. is really a stud. Look forward to seeing the new lineup!
Awesome video! I'm completely sold on the Jr. I've been looking to get back into charcoal and get a ceramic cooker, and based off everything you have mentioned in the video, it's the perfect cooker, number of people cooking for, value, size, etc. I can't wait to get one in and do some pulled pork.
James I appreciate your breakdown. As a Boston resident I was in between a few models of grills/ smokers for my first. This is the model I just decided on and I’m stoked! Main reasons being the convenience and portability- gonna be perfect for my camping trips as well!
Awesome video, thanks my Joe Jr is coming this week. Great to know that the Joe Jr can handle a family of 4, as I have only done a couple of cooks on my Akorn Jr. I have a question, I noticed in another video that you changed out the chimney/vent for one similar to the Kontrol Tower. Do you know if the kamado joe cover still fits the Joe Jr with that chimney?
Very informative James. Glad I saw your channel. Looking forward to learning from you. I don’t have a ceramic grill but love what you are doing. Thanks for sharing have a great weekend!
Congrats on the big joe!! Just got an ETA of late August for mine... Ugh... I can't wait to see how you utilize all that space. I was considering getting a Jr. In the future for small cooks
Could we have more detailed cooking recipes for JJ like you do for big grills? Its all good to know that lots of things can be cooked, but for learners its a bit overwhelming and we don't know any better what and how to cook. Thank you 😊
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thanks pal. Had one delivered yesterday by coincidence, turns out the dealer in the region wasn't far away 😃 Cost £459! But hey, that's what credit cards are for 😂
Very cool; I took delivery of my Big Joe 3 yesterday. Your videos are part of what made me pull the trigger on this grill vs. Weber Summit and BGE despite the shipping delays (waited 2.5 months!). Looking forward to seeing your experience with the BJ3.
Hi James, one thing I like about the Joe Jr, is how quickly it can heat soak. For making pizza I like Classic size because of expansion rack that gets my pizza stone closer to top of dome. I agree that sufficient for 2 to 4.
I bought my Joe jr last year. I took your advice and bought the charcoal basket and took out the cast iron bottom part for airflow. I’m thinking about upgrading one size bigger, not because the JR is too small for us 2 but more because I noticed that with low and slow (for example spareribs in a stand) the edges of the product burn because it’s in the hot airflow near the edge of the dome. Am I correct that the product I’m preparing low and slow should not stick out into the hot air flow or am I doing something else wrong?
I just ordered a Joe Jr wanting to take it up a level from my gas grill! Please do more with the Jr, I could use some good ideas on how to work my way into the Kamado lifestyle.
Deal! Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing Greg! 100% have some more ideas up the sleeve with the Jr. Thinking pizza might be next, anything you'd like to see specifically?
Great review, as always - thanks! Question: How about grill grate height/distance over the coals. Sometimes I want to do a direct grill, but "soft", in terms of higher off the coals. Does the lack of distance cause any problems with TOO much direct heat, or having to "smother" the fire to reduce the temperature? Strange, I know, but have experienced that with other kamados in the past. Thanks!
Congrats on your upcoming Big Joe. I notice how sparkling clean your KJs always look in your videos. As an owner of a Big Joe and daily user, it could use a good exterior cleaning. We keep it covered- kind of afraid of using the wrong thing to de-grease and get it back to looking clean. Maybe you can do a video on this sometime?
They are hard to find depending on your store. I like the lodge 10.25" pan (no handle), SmokeWare 10" drip pan and vent cap/ gasket, Kick Ash Basket, and KJ sear plate would be what I use most often
Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing Joe! The deflector plate is only for when you want to cook indirect and you want the grill to perform like a convection oven (baking, roasting etc. typically low and slow). Direct grilling for searing, getting some char etc. (steak, veggies etc.). You can grill directly for foods where the meat tastes better when the fat hits the hot coals (spatchcock chicken etc.) but you just need to carefully mind your temps to make sure you don't burn the bottom
Hi there, those chicken thighs in a cast iron skillet look good, what's the recipe? I will pick up my kamado Joe jr soon, so far I've been using 18" WSM and broil King keg. Cheers
Can you put Penroc Lava Rock on the bottom creating a circle and add your charcoal in the centre. Hoping to get extra free even heat inside? I also cook on stainless steel plates, easy cleanup after. Grill stays clean. I precooked in slowcooker then finish of in kamado joe jr for outstanding meal, done with chicken and veg. I bought the vessel cart for joe jr fits perfectly .
Greetings from Sweden! I enjoy your videos a lot. Was looking for a new grill, we already had 2x Weber 47 cm and was looking for some more real estate and also something more fun. Currently a big joe 2 and jr "family package" has a great deal at the local seller. I ended up with the Weber performer gbs with gas starter. Would love to see table build, comparison and walkthru and maybe 2 vs 3 vs weber kettle/summit. Is the 3 worth its price over the 2? Do I "need" the Big vs the 47 cm classic? Or will a jr complement my current Weber 47+57 setup for kamado low slow and warm? Will you be my guide? Thanks a lot!
Thanks so much Calle. Happy to share the table plan as it comes together, and I am working on a summit comparison for later in the summer. Always happy to answer any questions that come up
I have a jr too and wonder why they didn’t put some type of a screen on the bottom vent or ash pan like my Classic 2. I worry about ash falling and burning deck.
Very cool. When all three are running, things like comparing the time to bring up to temp and average amount of lump per cook will be very useful information. Does Jr have room for rack tiers?
Thanks for the idea Steve. It doesn't but you can cheat it by installing the grid on the firebox and inverting the metal ring so that you can add a small 8" grid from amazon on top to create a second tier
I use my Jr more and more and actually prefer it over my classic when it comes to smoking simply due to it being much easier to dial in and keep temps. It's a pulled pork station!
I've had a Big Joe 3 and Joe jr for long time. Over time the Jr has become my go to grill for most items. I still do most of my bbq on the big joe but most everything else I find that the jr is more than enough. Combine that with the fact that it's 1/10 of the charcoal and takes about 1/3 of the time to get booted up it's a clear winner. I just bought the nest for the Joe Jr and that's been a game changer. Before I just had it in the rack that it came with. I've also taken it to my parents house a few times to do pork butts for the family. My father has a green egg mini max and we'd usually put a butt on each. The mini max always runs out of charcoal and the Jr can make it the entire cook typically. I've had to add charcoal on long cooks to the Jr but for what it is. It does a great job.
Great video, i totally agree with you. I have a jr and a classic 2. But for only grilling my meat or low i slow i tend to work on the jr.. For multiple zone grilling i tend to work on the classic 2.
Planning a table for the Joe Jr (which is on order). What is the vertical distance from the bottom of the base to the grill surface? And as a comparison, what is the vertical distance from the ground to the grill surface on a Classic Joe? I would like to build the table such that the grill surface height would be the same. Thank you for your input!
Sorry to keep you waiting, had to go measure it. The table height I am not happy with (32") as its too tall.... I built it that height so that the Joe Jr can fit in the box when not in use which is handy, but I use it far more often than I store it and the height is annoying. 12 vs. 20.5 is the jr vs. classic with a tape measure from the bottom to the lower gasket
@@SmokingDadBBQ Awesome thank you for the response. So if I'm reading correctly - to make the grill height the same on the classic / Jr., I would need a 8.5" stand?
Ok... finally did it. Been watching your Kamado Joe videos for a while now and saw the Joe Jr on sale for $300 (on Amazon where I get free prime shipping and 5% back via the Amazon store card) and that was just enough for my impulse control to be weaker. My wife and I are moving into a new construction house in about 3 months so planned to get something then, but the same money now or later so might as well get it now and start cooking on it! Really going to rely on your videos on how to cook on it. Figured a Joe Jr. was a good gateway grill/smoker. Even if we get something like a big joe later it won't be a waste of $300 and be a great small capacity grill for regular use to get up to temp faster and save on fuel when we don't need capacity.
all ceramic Kamado brands including the 3 sizes KJ’s i have have enough fuel to last any cook without refilling charcoal …. that being said i do like to throw some wood chips in the bottom vent to add more smoke on long cooks (i show this in my joe jr brisket video)
Thanks for the video! Can you cook a rack of ribs on a Joe Jr? Or a spatchcock chicken? How long will it hold temperature for say a pork Butt? What accessories do they make for the Joe Jr.?
I have a bunch of these in my Joe Jr playlist you might be interested in checking out including two racks of ribs - ua-cam.com/video/D7ym4HnQXfY/v-deo.html Pulled pork and some accessories - ua-cam.com/video/o9o7MLtsblw/v-deo.html Spatchcock chicken - ua-cam.com/video/W_BjxCnnb1s/v-deo.html
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thank you. I’ve found these since my comments. I would still like to see just 1 rack of ribs cooked on the Joe Jr. Also a high heat cook of a regular person’s ribeye or t-bone 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick that you’d find in any grocery store. Thanks again
Great video James! You do such a nice job on the explanations! Kamado Joe is lucky to have such a fan, they are a great Kamado! When I saw about cooking for 4 it made me laugh because I sometimes think my Big Joe is not big enough for just my wife and I! LOL Cheers!
I only eat chicken and fish which are smaller in size portion however i am also looking for more smoky flavor which sloroller may provide compare to JR. please advise which one should i go for.
the Kamado Joe Classic 3 might be your best bet for the SloRoller but i think you can get more than enough smoke on the Jr. I have the JR with a soapstone and its more than enough smoke to turn out some great chicken and fish / scallops etc.
I'm glad you aren't going to be without a Classic. I got rid of my Big Joe and didn't bother to replace it. I think the two-classic setup is the best case scenario :)
I'm thinking of that too. My big joe is too fuel hungry even for small cooks like a steak or two you gotta really really fill up that basket every cook
Do you recommend the kick ash can for the joe jr? Will purchase next month and would like to know the essential accessories you recommend. On my list is the soapstone, the cast iron sear grate, the smokehouse chimney, and the cover. Just curious about the kick ash can. Thx so much for all of your videos. You are the main reason I am going with the joe jr. It’s just my husband and myself and I am the griller in the family.
i have yet to try the can so can't speak too that one. the ash basket is a must IMO, and the cap is a nice to have, especially if you're in a spot with rain and or you don't want the daisy wheel to change settings when you open the dome. a lodge 10.25" cast iron pan with handles that is 12" which fits in the 13" diameter space is great, as is the soapstone. i hardly use the cast iron plate since getting the soapstone cover is nice too
I just replaced my little akorn with a joe jr, I like that it uses less charcoal to get hot and is perfect for meals for 2, I love my OG joe as well but in the cold months it does take an extra time to get hot.
I’m really impressed with capability and price ..... I currently have a Weber kettle, wsm,pit barrel, and pk 360, I believe this will be my next purchase especially if I can find new for 399$
Hello. Thanks for the video. I was wondering, it seems that the ceramic chicken holder from Kamado is too large for the Junior. What's the holder you're using for your beer can chicken on the junior ?
Great presentation on pros and cons. Looking for mainly smoking use for a Kamado and debating between Jr and Classic. Your video has helped a great deal. Have you tried a rack of baby backs yet? can you only do half or can you side by each them?.
Hey man! Excellent video with lots of detail. Would love to see more cooks on your junior. I’ve recently just got one and struggle to find cooks/recipes I can follow along at home until I master it. I’ve recently also bought some cast iron pans for cooking. Be great to see stuff geared towards accessory substitutes for people with the junior. Anyway awesome as always. 👌
Thanks! Will do Emmet, really appreciate you watching, commenting and subscribing. Just did our first pizza on the Joe Jr. this weekend and will be making that into a video to show how it went / what we learned etc.
A tip: watch movies on kaldroStream. Me and my gf have been using them for watching all kinds of movies during the lockdown.
@Ashton Alejandro yea, I've been watching on kaldroStream for since november myself :)
@Ashton Alejandro yup, been using kaldrostream for since november myself :D
@@SmokingDadBBQI know this is an older video but I am wondering the warranty on the Joe jr.? I want one but want to make sure it has some support if it accidentally cracks. Thanks
I've just started using the JJ, and having never done fire based cooking, I was shocked at not only how good the flavour is, but how much I can fit in. First cook I did was a whole chicken with pork belly burnt ends around it. The second cook was another whole chicken with 9 drumsticks around it. I'm cooking a pork shoulder tomorrow for what I assume will be about 8 hours - the only thing I'm worried about is how much fuel to use. One of the biggest surprises I had was at how little fuel you need to use to sustain temperature for a long time. I'm left with a significant amount of fuel that I've re-used in the next cook. It's a genuinely amazing product that has opened up my BBQ world.
I had been wanting to buy a smoker for a while, but had a limited budget. Your video convinced me the Joe Jr was the way to go. Since getting the Jr a few weeks back I've cooked roast chicken, pork shoulder, steak for fajitas and most recently a small brisket flat, all went really well and tasted delicious. Never thought I would be BBQing in the UK winter! Thanks again for the videos.
you bet, congrats on the Joe jr. Paul
How many people were you cooking for? Looking at the jnr too as an intro to Kamodo cooking.
Doh! Accidentally posted comment when my son was logged in, so reposting myself. I had been wanting to buy a smoker for a while, but had a limited budget. Your video convinced me the Joe Jr was the way to go. Since getting the Jr a few weeks back I've cooked roast chicken, pork shoulder, steak for fajitas and most recently a small brisket flat, all went really well and tasted delicious. Never thought I would be BBQing in the UK winter! Thanks again for the videos.
Congrats, thats awesome
i just came across this video while i’ve been debating what size would be adequate for me...this pretty much answered all of my questions...picking it up and moving it around myself is pretty important to me...so thank you for making my decision so much easier!!
cheers
The Joe Jr. is incredible. Great video showing the power of the joe jr.
Couldn't agree more!
The short answer is Yes, it is. I have three smaller barbeques, all around 150 sq. inches, and they have handled family barbequing well.
The upsides they provide that you haven’t mentioned is less charcoal, faster startup time, portability, yet the same great cooking attributes.
Great video! It’s crazy to see how much the quality improved since the beginning
Thanks much. really appreciate it
That's it. Pulled the trigger on a Joe Jr today!! As a new dad and soon to be smoking neighbor just across the Michigan/Ontario border, thanks for the great content! Your enthusiasm is infectious!!
congrats and cheers fellow smoking dad
I have a Jr and a classic. I have had them for three years. In the summer we keep JR in the rv. We do most of our cooking on it as we travel. It keeps the rv cooler. And cooks great meals. Love them both. We are raving fans of Kamado joe. Love your video's.
That is awesome! and thanks so much for the kind words
Thanks for all the Jr. videos. I'm seriously looking at adding it to my lineup and they have been extremely helpful, especially the comparison with the BGE counterpart.
Glad to help
Awesome Video.. Just ordered my Joe Jr.. Thank You For Sharing 👍
Glad I could help! Congrats on the Jr
Awesome videos! Didn’t realize your channel was so new. Best of luck with the channel! I’m definitely going to keep watching.
Thanks! yes not even a year old yet
Great video! I'll definitely be adding the junior to my line up at some point. I think it offers a great size for smaller cooks where you don't need to fire up the classic
Definitely! cheers mate
Another thought out awesome show. I learn so much while watching you do your thing. Good job buddy.
I appreciate that Tommy. thanks so much
Awesome... Awesome video James. Looking forward to see what your new setup is going to look like. 👍 Keep up the amazing content.
Thanks Andrew 👍 Much appreciated
Awesome . I’d love to see some tutorials on going low and slow with the Joe jr. obviously it doesn’t have some of the helpful accessories that the classic does for that purpose. Cheers!
Thanks so much. Happy to do that, in the meantime check out last weeks video (8hr low and slow on the jr) as I walk through some setup info at the beginning that might help - ua-cam.com/video/dPSGNDWDIXk/v-deo.html
Cual es mejor el kamado jr o kamado classic 1?gracias y muy buenos videos
Perfect timing. This is my comparison of price and space this week between them - ua-cam.com/video/7B8owry2dog/v-deo.htmlsi=w6MU8OJjRORSO94C
Great videos. I recently discovered your channel and I am getting more and more of an itch to get a kamado joe! Keep it up!
Awesome! Thank you Michael. Thanks so much for watching, commenting and subscribing! Happy to answer any questions you have as you do your research
@@SmokingDadBBQ thanks a lot. I was toying with the idea of a joe jr and your latest video has almost sealed the deal. Now I'm just going to plant the seed in my wife's head haha. Looking forward to seeing the new grills in action!
Just picked up the Jr for portability. Plan on taking to the cabin for Christmas prime rib. Wish me luck!
fantastic, enjoy
As always, your explanations and reasonings are spot on. The Jr will comfortably feed 4 adults and it is almost as capable as the ‘proper’ size Joes. I said almost because there is no sloroller or rotisserie and basket accessories available for the Jr. this makes it deficient in cooking things such as crispy chicken wings compared with the bigger Joes.
Other than that, the Jr is simply AMAZING and cooks everything brilliantly. I followed Smoking dad’s video on cooking pizzas and the pizzas that came out of the Joe Jr rival those from traditional wood fired ovens!
Worth every single dollar
fantastic, thank you
Thanks for all the videos… I‘ve had a BGE for well over a decade and these videos hav helped me step up my game with it at our vacation property… just got my Joe Jr this week for home and am looking forward to breaking it in. Then going to add a Big Joe for family events.
Thank-you, cheers
This video is really helpful for me to make decision buy or not. It did show Joe junior amazing side.
thanks, it always surprises me how capable it is
Thanks I've been thinking of getting the little Joe because I'm tired of using my big Joe for just myself. Like to just cook a steak or something its so charcoal hungry and doesn't sear well unless you REALLY load it up to the top and waisted all that extra.
tomorrows video is a 8lbs tomahawk on the kettle joe
Great video! It’s crazy to see how much your videos improved
Glad you think so! really appreciate that
Just ordered my first KJ tonight , and it was the JR. You just made my day with this video. I eventually will go bigger but for now I need to learn the ropes for this style of cooler. I’m used to gas 😢 and have a Webber kettle which I really love. Now to find your old video on how to start it how much lump , wood , etc. thanks
congrats
I’ve been wanting a Kamado for some time but worried about the entry cost (I want the Big Joe 3 but it’s $3k) I just order the Joe Jr (it arrives tomorrow) as my first foray in to ceramic grill cooking to be sure I will enjoy as much as am hoping I will.
Thank you for the video! Love the channel. Please do more JR cooks. Interested in low & slow pork butt & wings. Also a video detailing what accessories are available for the Joe Jr. Thanks!
ewwee2k you read my mind 😂
I have a Big Joe and am really looking into the Jr. It would be great for quick weeknight meals and also to be able to bring it on the road. I also loved your old table and will build myself one next year when we redo the deck. Thanks for the awesome videos as usual.
Thanks so much. Pressure is on to try and build a second one that hopefully isn't worse lol
Awesome video. I have the Jr and Big Joe 2... love both of them. They make the perfect flexible team of grills
So true right? Great combo
Great video, thanks. It’s helped me decide that the classic will be more than enough for me and my family
Good choice! Congratulations
@@SmokingDadBBQ lol, well I am getting a bit ahead of myself, I know now what I need to try and convince my wife to let me buy 😉
Thanks again
Love your videos! I purchased a Junior next to my classic 3. Struggled with temperature at first cook with Junior.
I have the ash basket installed and the original bottom grate with the holes in it.
What do you recommend? Get the original bottom grate out for better airflow? Thanks!
Brilliant! Thanks for another great video, James. Very informative, and you may have just sold me on my next purchase. The Joe Jr. is really a stud. Look forward to seeing the new lineup!
Thanks so much John. Much appreciated.
Awesome video! I'm completely sold on the Jr. I've been looking to get back into charcoal and get a ceramic cooker, and based off everything you have mentioned in the video, it's the perfect cooker, number of people cooking for, value, size, etc. I can't wait to get one in and do some pulled pork.
Glad it was helpful! Congrats on the JR
I see the Big Joe reflection in the window James! Cant wait to see you cook on it!
hehe it might just be 😊
Found this Chanel today and watched soo many videos that I am Pulling the trigger right now.. Salute
congratulations
Just ordered one from Walmart on clearance for $298.00, including shipping. I couldn't pass up that deal. Can't wait to try it out
James I appreciate your breakdown. As a Boston resident I was in between a few models of grills/ smokers for my first. This is the model I just decided on and I’m stoked! Main reasons being the convenience and portability- gonna be perfect for my camping trips as well!
congrats on your new grill
Awesome video, thanks my Joe Jr is coming this week. Great to know that the Joe Jr can handle a family of 4, as I have only done a couple of cooks on my Akorn Jr. I have a question, I noticed in another video that you changed out the chimney/vent for one similar to the Kontrol Tower. Do you know if the kamado joe cover still fits the Joe Jr with that chimney?
it does with the top portion removed (the sleeve stays on)
@@SmokingDadBBQ cool, thanks
Very informative James. Glad I saw your channel. Looking forward to learning from you. I don’t have a ceramic grill but love what you are doing. Thanks for sharing have a great weekend!
Awesome! Thank you!
Great video, answers all the questions I had, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Congrats on the big joe!! Just got an ETA of late August for mine... Ugh... I can't wait to see how you utilize all that space. I was considering getting a Jr. In the future for small cooks
Thanks so much Devin, my Classic that I bought in June also won't arrive until Aug ugh. As you can tell from this video, I am a big fan of the Jr
Hi thank you for the video. Can you use the the rotisserie equipment on this version? If not, is there one for the Joe jr.?
What size pan is the Lodge cast iron in the video cooking the brussel sprouts? 26cm or 30.5 cm? Thanks.
it’s 10.25” not including the handles. with them it’s 12” and fits in the Joe jr
I want more Joe Junior👍 great video
thanks so much Fred
Look forward to the table build....that Jr has always fascinated me
Thanks so much David ... its a fun grill
Could we have more detailed cooking recipes for JJ like you do for big grills? Its all good to know that lots of things can be cooked, but for learners its a bit overwhelming and we don't know any better what and how to cook. Thank you 😊
Pretty cool James! I’ve never used a joe jr just a bge years ago. Great walkthrough and it does seem cool. Awesome video!
Thanks for watching Charley. Much appreciated
Superb video, thanks from the UK.
They're pretty expensive so it's really interesting to see how capable you've found this model.
I'm very tempted 👍🏻
Glad it was helpful! hope you can find a sale for less than 499... if it helps, thats the same price where i am in Canada
@@SmokingDadBBQ
Thanks pal.
Had one delivered yesterday by coincidence, turns out the dealer in the region wasn't far away 😃
Cost £459!
But hey, that's what credit cards are for 😂
Very cool; I took delivery of my Big Joe 3 yesterday. Your videos are part of what made me pull the trigger on this grill vs. Weber Summit and BGE despite the shipping delays (waited 2.5 months!). Looking forward to seeing your experience with the BJ3.
Right on, congratulations! we unbox it this cook and cook snd share our first cook soon after that
Hi James, one thing I like about the Joe Jr, is how quickly it can heat soak. For making pizza I like Classic size because of expansion rack that gets my pizza stone closer to top of dome. I agree that sufficient for 2 to 4.
Thanks so much Robert... you're right, it is by far the energy efficiency champion
I bought my Joe jr last year. I took your advice and bought the charcoal basket and took out the cast iron bottom part for airflow.
I’m thinking about upgrading one size bigger, not because the JR is too small for us 2 but more because I noticed that with low and slow (for example spareribs in a stand) the edges of the product burn because it’s in the hot airflow near the edge of the dome. Am I correct that the product I’m preparing low and slow should not stick out into the hot air flow or am I doing something else wrong?
Seems like you don't want to answer your question
I just ordered a Joe Jr wanting to take it up a level from my gas grill! Please do more with the Jr, I could use some good ideas on how to work my way into the Kamado lifestyle.
Deal! Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing Greg! 100% have some more ideas up the sleeve with the Jr. Thinking pizza might be next, anything you'd like to see specifically?
Great review, as always - thanks! Question: How about grill grate height/distance over the coals. Sometimes I want to do a direct grill, but "soft", in terms of higher off the coals. Does the lack of distance cause any problems with TOO much direct heat, or having to "smother" the fire to reduce the temperature? Strange, I know, but have experienced that with other kamados in the past. Thanks!
Hey James - obviously looking forward to seeing all 3 sizes in action! But a new trolley would be incredible!
awesome 👏. can’t wait to start building
Congrats on your upcoming Big Joe. I notice how sparkling clean your KJs always look in your videos. As an owner of a Big Joe and daily user, it could use a good exterior cleaning. We keep it covered- kind of afraid of using the wrong thing to de-grease and get it back to looking clean. Maybe you can do a video on this sometime?
Thanks! Will do! The pergola shelters them so they look clean on camera but up close they look well loved lol
Thanks, great video. I got the info I needed.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks. Just ordered a jr. Best place for accessories? Dont see many specifically for the Jr.
They are hard to find depending on your store. I like the lodge 10.25" pan (no handle), SmokeWare 10" drip pan and vent cap/ gasket, Kick Ash Basket, and KJ sear plate would be what I use most often
Yes it is enough for a family of four or five , for 2 years we used it several days every week to slow smoke or bbq , its quick and perfect
100%
Great video! How do you know when yo use the deflector plate, and when not to?
Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing Joe! The deflector plate is only for when you want to cook indirect and you want the grill to perform like a convection oven (baking, roasting etc. typically low and slow). Direct grilling for searing, getting some char etc. (steak, veggies etc.). You can grill directly for foods where the meat tastes better when the fat hits the hot coals (spatchcock chicken etc.) but you just need to carefully mind your temps to make sure you don't burn the bottom
@@SmokingDadBBQ wow superb information!
After seeing this video, I ran out and bought a KJ jr today. Got lucky and found one available. Love the videos, James. Good Job!
Right on, congratulations!!! Thanks for the kind words
Thank you 🙏 for all your videos and info
Glad you like them!
Hi there, those chicken thighs in a cast iron skillet look good, what's the recipe?
I will pick up my kamado Joe jr soon, so far I've been using 18" WSM and broil King keg. Cheers
Can you put Penroc Lava Rock on the bottom creating a circle and add your charcoal in the centre.
Hoping to get extra free even heat inside?
I also cook on stainless steel plates, easy cleanup after.
Grill stays clean.
I precooked in slowcooker then finish of in kamado joe jr for outstanding meal, done with chicken and veg.
I bought the vessel cart for joe jr fits perfectly .
Greetings from Sweden! I enjoy your videos a lot. Was looking for a new grill, we already had 2x Weber 47 cm and was looking for some more real estate and also something more fun. Currently a big joe 2 and jr "family package" has a great deal at the local seller. I ended up with the Weber performer gbs with gas starter. Would love to see table build, comparison and walkthru and maybe 2 vs 3 vs weber kettle/summit. Is the 3 worth its price over the 2? Do I "need" the Big vs the 47 cm classic? Or will a jr complement my current Weber 47+57 setup for kamado low slow and warm? Will you be my guide? Thanks a lot!
Thanks so much Calle. Happy to share the table plan as it comes together, and I am working on a summit comparison for later in the summer. Always happy to answer any questions that come up
Eye opening, really did not expect that from the Jr
right? it’s a capable little unit for sure
My first KJ arriving this week, it's a Jr. so pleased to see you can do so much with it, could not justify the price hop up to a Classic.
congratulations
I have a jr too and wonder why they didn’t put some type of a screen on the bottom vent or ash pan like my Classic 2. I worry about ash falling and burning deck.
has not happened but i agree that would be nice to see an upgrade
What kind of portable cart would you suggest for the Joe Jr? Did you make your table? Is there a vid on it?
I only have a video building my main table but it shows the same process for the jr - ua-cam.com/video/l-XuZaG5-ag/v-deo.html
Very cool.
When all three are running, things like comparing the time to bring up to temp and average amount of lump per cook will be very useful information.
Does Jr have room for rack tiers?
Thanks for the idea Steve. It doesn't but you can cheat it by installing the grid on the firebox and inverting the metal ring so that you can add a small 8" grid from amazon on top to create a second tier
Awesome video as always buddy! When i get my joe ill know were to look for some tips.
haha you got it Ricky. Thanks
I use my Jr more and more and actually prefer it over my classic when it comes to smoking simply due to it being much easier to dial in and keep temps. It's a pulled pork station!
So true right? It was a monster with the pulled pork and the beef ribs ... so stable
I've had a Big Joe 3 and Joe jr for long time. Over time the Jr has become my go to grill for most items. I still do most of my bbq on the big joe but most everything else I find that the jr is more than enough. Combine that with the fact that it's 1/10 of the charcoal and takes about 1/3 of the time to get booted up it's a clear winner. I just bought the nest for the Joe Jr and that's been a game changer. Before I just had it in the rack that it came with. I've also taken it to my parents house a few times to do pork butts for the family. My father has a green egg mini max and we'd usually put a butt on each. The mini max always runs out of charcoal and the Jr can make it the entire cook typically. I've had to add charcoal on long cooks to the Jr but for what it is. It does a great job.
Great video, i totally agree with you. I have a jr and a classic 2. But for only grilling my meat or low i slow i tend to work on the jr.. For multiple zone grilling i tend to work on the classic 2.
Thanks for sharing! Thanks so much Loki
Planning a table for the Joe Jr (which is on order). What is the vertical distance from the bottom of the base to the grill surface? And as a comparison, what is the vertical distance from the ground to the grill surface on a Classic Joe? I would like to build the table such that the grill surface height would be the same. Thank you for your input!
Sorry to keep you waiting, had to go measure it. The table height I am not happy with (32") as its too tall.... I built it that height so that the Joe Jr can fit in the box when not in use which is handy, but I use it far more often than I store it and the height is annoying. 12 vs. 20.5 is the jr vs. classic with a tape measure from the bottom to the lower gasket
@@SmokingDadBBQ Awesome thank you for the response. So if I'm reading correctly - to make the grill height the same on the classic / Jr., I would need a 8.5" stand?
Love my Jr., having a time keeping the temp low and slow. Video on that would be nice! Keep up the tasty work.
You got it
Ok... finally did it. Been watching your Kamado Joe videos for a while now and saw the Joe Jr on sale for $300 (on Amazon where I get free prime shipping and 5% back via the Amazon store card) and that was just enough for my impulse control to be weaker. My wife and I are moving into a new construction house in about 3 months so planned to get something then, but the same money now or later so might as well get it now and start cooking on it! Really going to rely on your videos on how to cook on it. Figured a Joe Jr. was a good gateway grill/smoker. Even if we get something like a big joe later it won't be a waste of $300 and be a great small capacity grill for regular use to get up to temp faster and save on fuel when we don't need capacity.
congrats
I've heard on looooong cooks you have to add wood/ charcoal again? Was that the case on your 8 hour low n slows?
all ceramic Kamado brands including the 3 sizes KJ’s i have have enough fuel to last any cook without refilling charcoal …. that being said i do like to throw some wood chips in the bottom vent to add more smoke on long cooks (i show this in my joe jr brisket video)
@@SmokingDadBBQ awesome, thanks man!
I have the komado komodo but I plan on getting the Jr. There are only 2 of us. Please tell me what accessories would be best for me to get. Thanks
I would get the soapstone as it doubles as a pizza stone and the charcoal basket
Great stuff brother! Can't wait to see the BJ3 in action!
thanks so much Tim
Thanks for the video! Can you cook a rack of ribs on a Joe Jr? Or a spatchcock chicken? How long will it hold temperature for say a pork Butt? What accessories do they make for the Joe Jr.?
I have a bunch of these in my Joe Jr playlist you might be interested in checking out including
two racks of ribs - ua-cam.com/video/D7ym4HnQXfY/v-deo.html
Pulled pork and some accessories - ua-cam.com/video/o9o7MLtsblw/v-deo.html
Spatchcock chicken - ua-cam.com/video/W_BjxCnnb1s/v-deo.html
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thank you. I’ve found these since my comments. I would still like to see just 1 rack of ribs cooked on the Joe Jr. Also a high heat cook of a regular person’s ribeye or t-bone 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick that you’d find in any grocery store. Thanks again
Was grilling hot and fast and the plastic handle shows melt points. Anyone had this before?
was your dome open with the flames coming up? Never had this with the dome closed
Great video James! You do such a nice job on the explanations! Kamado Joe is lucky to have such a fan, they are a great Kamado! When I saw about cooking for 4 it made me laugh because I sometimes think my Big Joe is not big enough for just my wife and I! LOL Cheers!
hahaha thanks Craig. it definitely is fun doing your sides as well on the big joe and that’s where space disappears quickly 😂
I only eat chicken and fish which are smaller in size portion however i am also looking for more smoky flavor which sloroller may provide compare to JR. please advise which one should i go for.
the Kamado Joe Classic 3 might be your best bet for the SloRoller but i think you can get more than enough smoke on the Jr. I have the JR with a soapstone and its more than enough smoke to turn out some great chicken and fish / scallops etc.
Could you please tell me where you got the ash basket for the joe jr
from Kick ash basket... occasionally on amazon, otherwise they ship direct
I'm glad you aren't going to be without a Classic. I got rid of my Big Joe and didn't bother to replace it. I think the two-classic setup is the best case scenario :)
Thanks John... making me nervous lol. I did love the two Classics as a pair
I'm thinking of that too. My big joe is too fuel hungry even for small cooks like a steak or two you gotta really really fill up that basket every cook
Another great video review James!
I appreciate that Scott, much appreciated
any suggestion for lighting and maintaining on joe jr. Struggling with the joe jr charcoal
i will do a joe jr specific temp video, but this might help - ua-cam.com/video/L1qU89KAl-0/v-deo.html
My Joe Jr and Kick Ash Basket finally came in - picking them up tomorrow. Any suggestions for a good burn in cook?
enjoy the better airflow... i am thinking beef ribs
Smoking Dad BBQ awesome thanks! Looking forward to it. What cut of beef ribs do you think is best?
Do you recommend the kick ash can for the joe jr? Will purchase next month and would like to know the essential accessories you recommend. On my list is the soapstone, the cast iron sear grate, the smokehouse chimney, and the cover. Just curious about the kick ash can. Thx so much for all of your videos. You are the main reason I am going with the joe jr. It’s just my husband and myself and I am the griller in the family.
i have yet to try the can so can't speak too that one. the ash basket is a must IMO, and the cap is a nice to have, especially if you're in a spot with rain and or you don't want the daisy wheel to change settings when you open the dome.
a lodge 10.25" cast iron pan with handles that is 12" which fits in the 13" diameter space is great, as is the soapstone. i hardly use the cast iron plate since getting the soapstone
cover is nice too
Awesome as always my bro!
Appreciate that brother. Keep it up yourself, almost past the 1k mark
I just replaced my little akorn with a joe jr, I like that it uses less charcoal to get hot and is perfect for meals for 2, I love my OG joe as well but in the cold months it does take an extra time to get hot.
Right on
Could you share your recipe for the marinade for the fajita steaks? Thanks!
oh so good. my wife found it here - www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11526/beef-fajita-nachos/
@@SmokingDadBBQ awesome thank you!
I’m really impressed with capability and price ..... I currently have a Weber kettle, wsm,pit barrel, and pk 360, I believe this will be my next purchase especially if I can find new for 399$
you’ve got some great toys already. this would be a fun addition. I think Atlanta grill store has them online for that price
Fantastic video! Greetings from The Netherlands. Stay safe!
Thank you very much Kevin! You and your family as well
LOL this rocks James!!!!! 🤣🥰🙌
Ha thanks so much guys
I had a question? Can I be able to use coal instead of the wood coal?
you mean briquettes vs. lump charcoal? yes but lump works best
What accessories are available for the KJ Jr. ?
Here are some of my favourites in action - ua-cam.com/video/o9o7MLtsblw/v-deo.html
Hello. Thanks for the video. I was wondering, it seems that the ceramic chicken holder from Kamado is too large for the Junior. What's the holder you're using for your beer can chicken on the junior ?
this is the one I found can fit direct - amzn.to/2Ofsqp7
Great presentation on pros and cons. Looking for mainly smoking use for a Kamado and debating between Jr and Classic. Your video has helped a great deal. Have you tried a rack of baby backs yet? can you only do half or can you side by each them?.
And I just found your double roll st louis ribs cook. Nice!
thanks!