Review: Weber Smokey Joe Gold Portable Braai

As a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift, I decided to buy my boyfriend a Smokey Joe. He had been bemoaning the fact that we never braai in the week even though we both love a bit of char-grilled goodness, and we both agreed it was because a normal braai is so time consuming to use.

Since the menu for the evening included some of Frankie Fenner‘s sirloin, I thought it would be the perfect present to complement our carnivorous feast (read a bit more about Frankie Fenner Fresh Meat Merchants and the man behind  it).

He was absolutely thrilled when he opened the box and immediately set about putting it together. These are my favourite things about the Smokey Joe.

Speedy to set up

The assembly is speedy and simple, and once complete it can be stored comfortably and conveniently, inside or out. Getting your fire started and your coals to optimum temperature is much faster than a normal braai. In fact, I doubt your oven would heat up as quickly as the Smokey Joe.

Cute and compact

It’s undeniably cute and comes in two gorgeous summery colours: turquoise and sage. It’s compact but not so small that you can’t cook a family meal on it. Especially handy for those living in flats where a big braai just isn’t going to fit.

Efficient heating

It requires far less fuel (about 1/4 the amount of charcoal you would use in a full size Weber) and is therefore much more efficient for couples or small groups. The grid is close to the coals which makes searing meat (like steak and chops) and quick cooking a breeze.

Easy to clean & transport

Cleaning it is quick and easy – since the grid fits in the sink, it can be soaked with the rest of the dishes. It’s light and portable so perfect for picnics and beach braais (or a lovely mid-week dinner-braai for two).

In short, this is a very nifty little addition to our outdoor kitchen. So far we’ve braaied steak, chicken kebabs, fish and mielies on it and I look forward to many more mid-week meals on the Smokey Joe.

Find out more about the Smokey Joe, available in sage and turquoise from Yuppiechef with free delivery throughout South Africa.