Well after using the folding BBQ a few times I have to say it passes muster. It is a little tricky to light, especially if you use the cheapest charcoal, which is fun! The charcoal I bought looks like wood. It hasn’t been ground up and formed into cubes. I call it free-range organic charcoal! A 1.5kg box costs 300yen and I learned from a friend you can store the box opened up n a corner of your room and it freshens the air.
To light the BBQ I have light a small normal fire in it and then added the charcoal after, it takes a while to burn down though so I checked with your friend and mine, Mr.Google, and found diagrams and patent information on a charcoal chimney. This handy device uses science and a bit of newspaper to light that stubborn free-range organic charcoal. I made my own version using a large size coffee can. It gets a little hot but what’s a few burns, if you’re grilling, keep a cold beer handy to cool your mitts! I bought a small stepladder to use as a stand. The only other accessory you need is some people!
So far I have BBQed a couple steaks (the boneless type you can get in Japan), some chicken wings, some lamb chops (my current favorite, because meat grills better on the bone), some large hotdogs, and even some veggies. Next I will try some fish! I want to try doing some shellfish especially awabi (abalone). Sure it’s a little small! But if you’re going to carry it anywhere that will be a bonus!
It easily folds back up into it’s plastic carry case (make sure it’s cool), so you can put it into a pack and bring it camping too. As with all BBQs the best way to clean it is to let it burn.
thanks for reading,
ian
