Unquestionably, the Japanese Outdoor Grill stands out as the most impressive BBQ option available this summer.
In the realm of outdoor cooking, a new wave is sweeping across the Western world, and it's all about the Japanese Konro grill. These compact charcoal grills, also known as Hibachi, are making a stylish statement on patio table tops and are a must-have addition to any outdoor kitchen in 2025.
The Konro Advantage
Konro grills, like the one from Next, come complete with a grill, a heat mat, and a searing rack, and offer different sizes with the option to add a robata and skewer rack. These grills are designed for direct, fast cooking over charcoal, offering excellent heat retention, ensuring food with a purity of flavor and crisp, caramelized edges.
Superior Smoky Flavor Profile
Konro grills typically burn Binchotan, a premium Japanese white charcoal that burns very cleanly and steadily, producing high heat with minimal smoke and almost no unpleasant odors or sparks. This charcoal contributes a subtle, natural smoky aroma that is difficult to replicate with gas grills. Unlike gas grills that rely mostly on propane or natural gas, Konro grills use charcoal which imparts a richer, deeper smoky flavor directly to the food.
Versatility in Grilling Methods
Like other charcoal grills, Konro grills can sear, grill, and smoke foods effectively. The steady burn of binchotan charcoal supports long, slow cooking for smoke infusion, unlike gas grills which may struggle with consistent low-temperature smoke sessions without added smoke boxes.
A Traditional Design with Modern Features
Kasai's grills are modeled after the world-famous Japanese design, featuring natural mineral tiles that reflect heat into the grill and a frame made of brushed stainless steel. The red Konro grill, featuring a porous clay grate made of Keisodo, provides excellent heat retention for powerful cooking with maximum flavor. This cast iron grill conducts heat quickly and locks in the moisture of the food.
A Game Changer for Summer Cookouts
An authentic al fresco dining experience can be achieved with a Japanese barbecue, enhancing the flavor of food and changing the face of summer cookouts. More Japanese-inspired grills are entering the market, catering to a growing interest in sociable, hands-on cooking.
Recommendations for Best Results
It is recommended to use Binchotan charcoal (available at Ocado) for the best quality grilling with this Konro grill. The grill comes with feet and handles for easy transportation, and a rounded model is also available for circular bistro tables.
A Historical Legacy
Konro grills are ingrained in Japanese history and offer a more authentic alternative to bulky gas barbecues or smokers, which rely on slower cooking methods. Vickie Hawley, owner and grill expert at Kasai Grills, states that Japanese grills are all about open, high-heat cooking with no lid and no slow roasting, ensuring controlled heat that locks in flavor.
Expanding Your Outdoor Kitchen
For those concerned about feeding a larger family, there are built-in outdoor grill ideas that embrace a more fully rigged barbecue setup. Japanese outdoor grills are compact, heat up quickly, and offer more control over individual portions, making them a perfect investment for small patios or balconies.
Embrace the flavors of Japan and elevate your outdoor cooking experience with a Konro grill.
- In 2025, a Japanese Konro grill from Next, complete with a grill, heat mat, searing rack, and optional add-ons, will be a must-have for any outdoor kitchen.
- Unlike gas grills that may struggle with consistent low-temperature smoke sessions, the steadiness of binchotan charcoal in Konro grills supports long, slow cooking for smoke infusion.
- Kasai's grills, inspired by traditional Japanese design, use unique features like natural mineral tiles and a porous clay grate made of Keisodo, providing excellent heat retention for powerful cooking.
- The growing interest in sociable, hands-on cooking has led to an influx of Japanese-inspired grills in the market, aiming to enhance the flavor of food and revolutionize summer cookouts.
- For optimal results with a Konro grill, it's suggested to use binchotan charcoal, available at Ocado, ensuring the best quality grilling experience.
