How to use The Caveman Grill
From making your fire to using the accessories
Carefully unload your Caveman Grill from the pallet with two persons, as the grills are heavy. Gently guide the grill off the pallet to prevent it from falling or tipping over. Remove all packaging such as plastic and foam, then lift the grill grid out diagonally and take out any protective foam from the firepit.
When putting the grill grid back, make sure it fits neatly within the rim in its neutral position, as there is only one correct fit. Secure the chains to the hooks and check all bolts on the axis and frame with an Allen key before first use.
Lift the grill grid to its highest position with the handwheel before lighting your first fire. During the first few sessions, make smaller fires so the firebricks can harden gradually with the heat.
The grill grid itself does not need to be preheated before grilling; it’s ready once your fire gives steady embers. Keeping the grid in full open flames for long periods without food is not good for its lifespan and can cause unnecessary wear.
After each session, let the grill cool completely before cleaning. After the first few grill sessions, wipe each time the ashes by hand into the open spaces between the firebricks until they are nicely filled.
Lift the grill grid to its highest position before lighting the fire and keep the flames preferably on the opposite side from the handwheel.
Build the fire in the center of the firepit, directly above the ash grid.
Place a few fire starters in the middle, then stack two logs lengthwise, two across, and another two across to help the fire catch easily.
Keep the grid raised until you have a steady flame, then lower it to your preferred cooking height.
Avoid using lighter fluid or other flammable liquids.
For a step by step explanation for ‘How to make your fire for an Argentine BBQ, read this article.
For the best results, choose hardwoods that burn long and steady, such as oak, beech, or fruitwoods like apple or cherry. Wood without the bast helps minimize unwanted smoke and keeps your fire clean.
Avoid softwoods like pine or spruce, as their resin can affect the taste and create extra residue. Dry, dense hardwood provides stable heat and delivers that distinct Caveman flavor.
For an extensive look at the best wood types for cooking and exploring the different flavours they bring, read this article.
Logs around 8 x 8 x 30 cm fit easily in both length and width and are perfect for quickly creating more fire or heat when needed. Maintain a steady flame so the logs catch fire as fast as possible.
Oversized logs can block airflow and produce unwanted smoke. Make sure that the flames should never rise higher than the grill grid in its highest position, as this makes it impossible to downsize the heat while grilling.
Yes, you can use charcoal, preferably larger high-quality pieces. Place them on the more opposite side from the handwheel. Charcoal burns slower and takes longer before it’s ready for grilling, giving a maybe steadier heat but slightly different taste than wood.
The Caveman Grill is designed for real woodfire, which in Caveman’s eyes delivers the best flavour and the most authentic outdoor ambiance. So when you have the equipment to deliver the best in your garden, why settle for the second best?
Allow the fire to burn down on its own until it is fully out and cold. You can take out the remaining firebits to cool down the firebricks and steel parts more quickly. Do not use water to extinguish the fire in any way, as this can damage the steel and firebricks.
Once everything has cooled, remove the ash grid and gently sweep the ashes into the ashtray. Always make sure the grill is completely cold before covering or cleaning.
Allow the fire to burn down on its own until it is fully out and cold. You can take out the remaining firebits to cool down the firebricks and steel parts more quickly.
Do not use water to extinguish the fire in any way, as this can damage the steel and firebricks.
Once everything has cooled, remove the ash grid and gently sweep the ashes into the ashtray. Always make sure the grill is completely cold before covering or cleaning.
The grill is made from durable corten and stainless steel and can handle all seasons with ease. The simplest solution is, of course, to roll it under a roofed attic or any spot that stays dry. The inlay of firebricks inside the firepit must never get wet, just like you wouldn’t leave the roof open on your convertible car.
If you prefer to keep it outside, always use the Winter Cover to protect the inside from moisture. Make sure the grill has cooled down completely before covering it. Use the Summer Cover only for protection against dew and light moisture.
Always remove the grill grid before cleaning. When the grill has cooled down, spray oven cleaner mousse on the dirty stainless steel parts and leave it for a few hours in dry conditions so the heavy dirt can loosen.
Use a Scotch-Brite sponge or a stainless steel scourer when more heavy burnt-in parts occur, and clean with minimal warm water by squeezing the sponge or scourer before use.
Always wipe along the grain of the metal to prevent scratches. Avoid strong chemicals and never let the firebricks get wet while cleaning.
Each accessory has its own purpose, helping you get the most out of your Caveman Grill.
Winter Cover
The Winter Cover keeps the inside of your grill dry and protected, which is essential when your grill stays outdoors. Make sure the open side of the cover faces the handwheel, and close it completely in case of strong wind or rain. Always wait until the grill has fully cooled before placing the cover on, as heat may damage the material.
Summer Cover
The Summer Cover protects the grill grid against moisture and dew. It should only be used when the grill is cool and is not meant as a lid during grilling. To install or remove it, unhook the chains from the grid, twist them around the bar using the handwheel, and position the cover diagonally between the frame.
Plancha
The Plancha offers a flat cooking surface for searing or frying. Position it anywhere on the grill grid and make sure the four pins fit securely within the front and back frame of the grid and the V-shaped grates. It’s perfect for smaller cut vegetables or seafood that benefits from plancha searing.
Wok Holder
The Wok Holder is used when the grill grid is in a higher position. Place it on the rim of the grill and slide it easily along the edge to adjust its position while cooking. It’s ideal for high-heat stir-frying or preparing side dishes alongside your main grill.
